The older I get, the more I find myself drawn to our country’s history. Some of it’s just a natural part of aging, but it also comes from a deeper appreciation for everything this country has been through, and the people who gave so much to shape it.

One of the things I enjoy most is reading, especially about the quiet, behind-the-scenes leaders. The ones who didn’t chase the spotlight but still made a big impact. Their stories are great reminders of what real leadership and serving others look like.

Flag Day is coming up this Saturday, June 14. It’s one of those holidays that doesn’t get a lot of attention and can easily slip by. I’ve been thinking about what our flag stands for and all the people who made it possible. The Stars and Stripes were officially adopted back in 1777. We see the flag all the time, but it’s easy to forget what it represents. To me, it stands for a country that’s not perfect, but one that keeps moving forward. One that’s resilient, diverse, and holds a set of shared values worth working for.

It also happens to be the U.S. Army’s birthday. June 14, 1775. The Army has been around even longer than our flag and from the very beginning, the men and women who’ve served have led with courage and selflessness. I’ve had the chance to work alongside veterans over the years and they carry that same spirit with them long after their service ends. They don’t talk about it much, but the way they show up for their teams, their communities, their families says it all. Their kind of leadership, grounded in humility and purpose, is something we can all learn from.

There’s no place that brings that feeling to life quite like the National Mall in D.C. When you see the flag flying above the monuments to presidents, pioneers, and service members, it just hits you. Every time I’m there, I’m reminded that leadership isn’t about titles or power but about stepping up, putting others first, and being part of something bigger than yourself.

So with Flag Day and the Army’s birthday coming up, maybe take a minute to reflect. Think about where we’ve been as a country, what we stand for today, and the kind of leadership we each have the chance to bring into the world. That quiet kind of leadership, rooted in purpose and service, is what has always moved us forward.