Eaglebrook Alumni Honored on Veterans Day
At morning assembly on Monday, November 11, Dr. Leyden honored three recent Eaglebrook graduates for their service to the United States and talked about the ways that their careers have shown a deep commitment of service to others.
He spoke of the 18-year career of Dan Gwosch ‘98, who joined the Army Rangers after 9/11 and completed six tours of duty – four in Afghanistan and two in Iraq. Mr. Gwosch told Dr. Leyden that, as a team leader in combat situations, it was his mission “to lead the way and be the person all persons would look to in the darkest moments for steadfast resolve.”
More recently, Mr. Gwosch has emphasized the important role that members of the military play not just as soldiers but as ambassadors of their country – a role that emphasizes the importance of personal honor and integrity.
Mr. Leyden also spoke of Sam Meek ‘99, who joined the Marines after 9/11 and performed two tours of duty in Iraq, where he served as the CBRN chief of his unit – the team member responsible for identifying potential chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons in the vicinity of his squad.
Since leaving the Marines, Mr. Meek has launched Sandboxx, an app designed to promote comfort, joy, and community among military veterans and their families. In a note to Mr. Leyden, Mr. Meek encouraged Eaglebrook students to learn as much from their setbacks as their successes, noting that “every challenge is a gift.”
Finally, Mr. Leyden spoke about Captain Alex Campell ‘95, who has pursued a 22-year career in the Navy and continues to serve. Mr. Campbell attended the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis and was commissioned as an explosive ordinance disposal officer, which means that was frequently found himself in harm’s way defusing roadside bombs or mines on the seafloor.
Over his career, Capt. Campbell has qualified as a naval diving officer and parachutist, and he is currently involved in R&D to develop tools and strategies to prevent coordinated drone attacks.
Capt. Campbell told Dr. Leyden that he continues to serve because “everything about war is awful” and he wants to create new ways to deter future wars. He also asked Eaglebrook students to reflect on what they are saying when they thank military veterans for their service, and encouraged them to understand that many veterans have experienced deep pain, sacrifice, and personal challenges on behalf of their nation.
To watch a video of Mr. Leyden’s assembly, click here.
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