Reflecting on a once-in-a-lifetime experience aboard the USS Carl Vinson

I was fortunate enough to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience recently that I will never forget: my chief of staff, Tina Hrevus, and I spent two days aboard a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. And I’m not talking about a retired vessel; we were aboard the USS Carl Vinson on active duty in the Pacific Ocean.

Our visit was sponsored by Edward Jones Financial Advisor Bob Ernst of Carrollton, Texas, one of the many retired military veterans among our ranks here at Edward Jones. Prior to joining our firm, he spent 28 years serving as a helicopter pilot in the Navy. Earlier this year, he offered to recommend me for participation in what the Navy calls its Distinguished Visitors program, designed to showcase the pride and professionalism of those who serve our country at sea.

A few months later, much to our awestruck amazement, Tina and I were in a transport plane landing on the flight deck of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in the middle of the ocean. What we saw was not a demonstration for guests; the sailors and aviators aboard that ship were performing their normal duties, serving our country, readying their skills and teamwork for whatever they are called to do in service to our country.?

Simply put, there are no words to describe the impact this visit had on me. What I felt as I watched the incredible teamwork happening all around me and heard the sailors and aviators discuss their dedication to their mission…I’m not sure how I could possibly be more impressed by the experience. Whether I was talking to the commanding officers or interacting with the enlisted folks serving our food, it was clear that every one of the heroes on the Carl Vinson was fully dedicated to protecting America at sea.

I saw a great similarity between the people of the U.S. Navy and the 52,000 associates, financial advisors and branch teams of Edward Jones. Though the form of our work is very different, we are also dedicated to a mission of service to make others’ lives better. I think it’s why so many former members of the military find a second home at our firm.

Perhaps my favorite personal story from our time on the Carl Vinson was shared by the ship’s dentist, whom everyone called either “Dento” or “The Floss Boss.” When he was just five years old, he fled Saigon with his family aboard a refugee boat. The vessel was intended for 50 people but was packed with 300 souls. Eventually, they were picked up by a Navy vessel. Dento said the U.S. Navy literally saved his life, and for that feels forever indebted to the organization he is now proudly a part of.

Dento’s story showed the impact an organization – in this case, the Navy – can have on the people it serves. While we at Edward Jones may not be rescuing refugees at sea or defending our country in war and peace, we are making life-changing impacts on the lives of those we serve. It’s an inspiring mission, and it’s one of the many reasons I’m proud to be a part of Edward Jones. We are here to change lives, and to leave people and places better than when we found them.