Hello In Stitches Family,
Every November 11, Veterans Day gives us an opportunity to recognize the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It’s a day to reflect on their dedication, appreciate their service, and simply say thank you.
Here at In Stitches Embroidery in Rapid City, South Dakota, Veterans Day holds a special meaning. One of our own, Mike Rossman, proudly served in the United States Air Force for more than two decades.
This year, we wanted to share a little more about Mike’s military career, the people who influenced him, and how the lessons he learned during his service continue to shape the way we do business today.
From Air Traffic Control to Aviation Resource Management
Mike spent 21½ years on active duty in the United States Air Force.
He began his military career as an air traffic controller before cross-training into Aviation Resource Management, a role that involved keeping many important aspects of flight operations organized and running smoothly.
His responsibilities included maintaining aircrew training records, tracking flying hours, coordinating daily flight and ground schedules, and managing flight records and pay.
It was detailed work that required organization, accuracy, and teamwork.
But when we asked Mike what stood out most about his years in the Air Force, his answer wasn’t about the responsibilities or the places he’d been.
It was about the people.
He remembers working alongside professionals who worked closely together to help keep our country secure.
The Leadership Lessons That Stayed With Him
During his military service, Mike worked with many supervisors and commanders who became mentors.
What made those individuals memorable wasn’t simply their rank or position. It was how they approached leadership.
They led by example.
They encouraged the people around them to develop their skills, expand their knowledge, and continually improve. Mike learned that becoming a good leader also meant learning how to be a good follower.
Those lessons didn’t end when he retired from the Air Force.
Today, they continue to influence how we work together at In Stitches.
Mike believes that leaders should be willing to demonstrate the work themselves and make sure their employees have the support they need to succeed.
One of his favorite approaches to leadership is simple:
“I’d rather have an employee ask the same question 10 times than be afraid to ask and mess up a job.”
We think that says a lot about the kind of environment we want to create.
Whether we’re working on custom embroidery, patches, or personalized products, we want our team to feel comfortable asking questions, learning new skills, and taking pride in doing a job well.
What Veterans Day Means to an Air Force Veteran
When we asked Mike what Veterans Day means to him, his answer was straightforward.
It’s a day to remember and recognize those who have served in defense of the United States.
And that meaning hasn’t changed for him over the years.
One thing Mike wishes more people understood is that Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and Armed Forces Day each have a different purpose.
Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and Armed Forces Day: What’s the Difference?
Although all three holidays recognize military service, they honor different groups of people.
- Veterans Day (November 11): Honors all who have served in the United States military, whether for two years or thirty. It recognizes veterans from every branch of service.
- Memorial Day (the last Monday in May): Remembers and honors military personnel who died while serving our country.
- Armed Forces Day (the third Saturday in May): Recognizes the men and women currently serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Each holiday is important, and understanding the differences helps us recognize military service in a meaningful way.
For Mike, Veterans Day is about remembering everyone who answered the call to serve, regardless of how long they wore the uniform.
How Can We Meaningfully Thank a Veteran?
We asked Mike one final question: What can people do to show their appreciation for veterans?
His answer was perhaps the simplest of all.
“A simple thank you goes a very long way.”
Sometimes we think recognizing someone’s military service requires a big event, a special ceremony, or an elaborate gesture.
But often, the most meaningful thing we can do is acknowledge their service.
If you know a veteran, take a moment to thank them. Ask about their experiences if they’re comfortable sharing. Listen to their stories. Let them know their service is remembered and appreciated.
And while Veterans Day gives us a special opportunity to express our gratitude, there’s no reason we can’t do those things throughout the year.
Honoring Our Veterans, Today and Every Day
At In Stitches, we’re proud of Mike and his 21½ years of service in the United States Air Force.
We’re also grateful for the lessons he brought home with him: the importance of teamwork, leading by example, continuing to learn, and supporting the people around you.
Those values are just as meaningful in our shop today as they were during his military career.
This Veterans Day, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every veteran in our In Stitches family, throughout Rapid City and the Black Hills, and across the country.
Thank you for your dedication, your service, and the sacrifices you’ve made.
Happy Veterans Day from all of us at In Stitches Embroidery & Patch!