Just Doing My Job

Last week I was privileged to attend a Tribute to Living Recipients of the Medal of Honor at the Center Club in downtown Baltimore. Sponsored by Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, my assistant, David, and I were invited by HUM board member David McQuay.

As a Frederick County resident, I didn’t know the Center Club, but it sure impressed Baltimore people when I told them I was attending an event there. The venue was almost as impressive as the event.

But we were there to met and honor Medal of Honor recipient Sammy Davis, Sgt., U.S. Army (Ret.) – and what an honor it was. Sammy’s story, his gentle spirit and engaging presentation were absolutely inspiring.

We were also able to meet all 81 other living recipients of the Medal of Honor by way of video. I must admit I never really understood that the Medal of Honor was for saving lives and had nothing to do with defeating or killing the enemy.

Sammy served during the Vietnam War and was honored for actions taken on November 18, 1967. He was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Lyndon Johnson at the White House on November 19, 1968. The video of Sammy receiving his medal from President Johnson was used in “Forrest Gump” with Tom Hanks’ face superimposed over Sammy’s. Gump’s exploits were also loosely based on Sammy’s and both were also shot in the buttocks, but Sammy didn’t show the President.

During the reception, I found a moment to speak to Sammy, myself. We shook hands and I simply said, “Thank you for your service.” “Thank you,” he responded, “but I was just doing my job.”

 

May I be found even slightly so faithful in doing mine.
For His Honor,
Pastor Gary Byers
Spiritual Life Director