Two veterans on campus, World Languages Dept. Chair Amy Fu and Facilities Manager John Bicking not only make our school a better place, but they also improved our country.

Fu served in the Army Reserve before coming to Sage. Although the United States was not at war during her service, she was still willing to risk her life for her country. To Fu, Veteran’s Day was a time to reflect on and honor the incredible sacrifices of those who serve our nation.

“During Veteran’s Day we honor those who served in the military, who sacrificed themselves to provide us freedom and to protect what we believe in. It means honor, sacrifice and freedom,” Fu said.

Bicking was a door gunner on a Marine Corps attack helicopter during the Vietnam War. He flew 515 missions and was awarded the Air Medal 25 times.

“For me, it was gratifying and gave me pride to fight for our country, even in a conflict that was divisive here in the United States,” Bicking said.

To him, Veteran’s Day means thanking and remembering those who served, as our nation would certainly not be the same without their incredible sacrifices.

“[On Veteran’s Day], I remember and honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving for our country, especially close friends that I had the pleasure of serving with in Vietnam,” Bicking said.

However, while Fu and Bicking differ in their experiences while in service, they are both proud of the country for which they had the opportunity to fight.

To Fu, America represents freedom of religion, compassion in war, guardianship of democracy and the ability to meld different cultures. Bicking agrees, and hopes that America will only continue to grow in the future.

“[I am most proud of] the ideals and basic ideology [America] is based on, and I am hopeful that these ideals…will be maintained despite the obvious divisions exposed from the recent election,” Bicking said.