by Saiba Alam
As we celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary this July, Morningside Ministries is proud to take some time to honor our residents who have served our country. No matter what branch, role, or length of service, our veterans are truly among those who have helped shape our country. Here at Morningside, we are proud to honor their service and sacrifice.
Originally from Michigan, Dave Williams served in the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic from 1962 to 1966. During his time in the service, Williams was stationed at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, France, and McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey before being discharged. After completing his service, Williams chose not to re-enlist. Instead, he continued doing what he loved, spending the next 40 years working for Honeywell Aerospace.
One of the most memorable moments from Williams’ time in the service came with the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, one of the most significant moments in American history.
While stationed in Arizona, Williams met his wife, Eileen. He shared the funny story of how they met: a blind date. The next morning, the two went out for coffee, and the rest was history. The couple has been married for 60 years and has two children and four grandchildren. They have called Morningside at the Meadows home for the past three years and have loved the community, the campus, and all the team members who have helped make Morningside their home.
Looking back and reflecting on his military career, Williams described his contribution with humility.
“I did my part,” he said. For Williams, military service is about serving the country and protecting the freedoms and lifestyle that Americans enjoy every day. “You do it for the freedoms that we have.”
As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, Williams hopes future generations carry forward and uphold the values that inspired him to serve. His story serves as a reminder that the legacy of America’s veterans continues long after their service has ended.
Morningside Ministries is honored to have Dave and Eileen Williams at our Meadows campus, along with all of our veteran residents and families across our communities. Without the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans, we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms and values that helped establish our country 250 years ago. A heartfelt thank you to Dave Williams and all our veterans from the entire Morningside Ministries team!