Why We Serve: Honor

By Command Sgt. Maj. William G. Bruns, APG Senior Command Sergeant MajorMay 12, 2015

Command Sgt. Maj. William G. Bruns
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

It usually happens around mile five of a good run; it's the moment I discover I'm older than my body remembers. No longer a young Private who could run for hours, but rather the Sergeant Major who can't shake the nagging pain from my knee. But then I think of him, immortalized at 31, forever a Corporal, and my legs regain a confident stride as my heart swells in his honor.

Honor. It's such a versatile word. Defined by some as showing respect or esteem, demonstrated by others through vigilance and fortitude. Our Army recognizes honor as one of the seven core values, but for me it's the bonding agent for the other six. For without honor, our loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, integrity, and personal courage may falter.

As a Soldier, husband and father, part of my moral compass revolves around 'doing the right thing' whether at work, at home or as a member of our great community. In an era where a small percentage of the American population are serving in our Armed Forces, it's imperative that we take the time to engage our communities and support them as much as they support us. Just like our internal Army family, our towns and our neighborhoods, the homes of our fallen, are grieving too. By taking care of each other in our darkest hours, we honor those deserving of our reverence and respect.

As May breaks and our spirits are lifted by warmer weather, I encourage you to support the many observances designed for such reflection. Here at Aberdeen, this month brings Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Armed Forces Week, Memorial Day and our National Moment of Remembrance. Outside our installation, there are a plethora of community organizations designed to support and honor our active duty service members, veterans and their families. Whether it's welcoming our forces home from overseas or placing a wreath on a grave, empower yourself to be part of the bigger picture; Honor them through action.

For the Bruns household, our small contribution has become a family affair. Since 2010, my wife Robin (Army Retired), Halie, Clayton and I have been involved in a nation-wide running club started in 2007 by Gold Star Mothers to help our communities better understand and honor the Fighting, the Fallen, and the Families of our military men and women. We initially became involved when we were both stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, but continued supporting during our tour to Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington. When we arrived here at Aberdeen, it seemed natural for Robin to assist community members in building a support club in Fallston, Maryland. Through our monthly runs, our community empowers one another to connect, to move forward, to remember and to grieve. We take each step in honor of their selfless patriotism and uncompromising heroism.

This month, just like last, I will run for CPL Antonio Burnside, a Paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division, 1st Brigade Combat Team, Special Troops Battalion who was killed by small-arms fire during a dismounted patrol in search of roadside bombs on April 6, 2012, in Mushaki, Afghanistan. The miles may seem longer as each month passes but the terrain, smells and radio traffic remain crystal clear. CPL Burnside was dedicated to our unit's mission, loyal to his platoon, and steadfast in the protection of his team. I honor his commitment and the thousands of other dedicated professionals volunteering to serve and protect our way of life. I run because he afforded me the freedom and privilege to be able to do so. I run because he cannot.

Pause and reflect.

CSM sends…