Remembering, Reflecting, and Replanting: A Rotary Moment for Veterans Day
I had the privilege of speaking at the Rotary Club of Raleigh with my friend and fellow Rotarian, Colonel Kirk Warner (US Army Ret’d) of Smith Anderson Attorneys.
Together, we explored the shared purpose behind Remembrance Day and Veterans Day — honouring those who served, those who sacrificed, and those who continue to inspire through their example.
My presentation focused on The Unknown Soldier, whose story remains one of history’s most powerful acts of empathy. In 1916, Chaplain David Railton found himself haunted by the question:
“What can I do to ease the pain of father, mother, brother, sister, sweetheart, wife, and friend?”
His answer was simple but profound: to return one unidentified soldier to Britain, so every grieving family could have a place to mourn. The Unknown Warrior, buried in Westminster Abbey on 11 November 1920, became a symbol for all nations — a silent reminder that courage has no name, and gratitude no borders.
From that single tomb, the idea spread worldwide — to Paris, Arlington, Rome, Athens, Ottawa, and Canberra — each a space for reflection, each a commitment that we will remember them.
For me, remembrance is deeply personal. My Greek Cypriot grandfather served in Salonika in WWI; my Irish grandfather fought fires during the Blitz; my great uncles served across continents — two resting still in Flanders Fields. My own journey later led me to serve with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Training Branch).
These family ties keep remembrance grounded. It’s not abstract. It’s legacy, duty, and love for country intertwined.
I want to extend my thanks to Doug Kline and Eddie Coleman of NC Capital Group for attending today in support, to Jennifer Rodriguez, Paul Watson, and Lindsay Baker for capturing such meaningful moments, and to Harrison Turner, Linda Moynihan, and Colonel Kirk Warner for embodying what Rotary stands for — Service Above Self.
Our service continues through the Oak City Tree Campaign, part of the Trees for Raleigh initiative. On Veterans Day — November 11, 2025 — an oak tree will be planted in the Veterans section of Historic Oakwood Cemetery as a living tribute to those who served.
The oak tree, strong and enduring, mirrors the resilience of those it honours. Each tree planted in Raleigh stands not only for remembrance but for renewal — a sign that the values we cherish can take root again and again, generation after generation.
Remembrance teaches us that leadership is not about rank or recognition; it’s about service, humility, and continuity. That’s true in the forces, in Rotary, and in business leadership alike.
To explore my work in coaching and consulting for professionals, leaders, and law firms across the US and UK, visit www.petergourri.com.
