Have you ever wondered why people choose to join the military? Serving in the armed forces is a serious commitment that requires courage, sacrifice, and a willingness to face risks most people never will.
Gary Bell, a staff member at Urbana, says Veterans Day holds deep meaning. “Veterans are those who made and continue to make our country a land of the free,” he said.
Bell served as an Airman 3rd Class and credits the military for teaching him how to work as part of a team—something that continues to help him in his career. His favorite memories come from the bonds he formed with his fellow shipmates. Inspired by his NJROTC experience in high school, he enlisted right after graduation. His advice for future service members is simple: listen, stay disciplined, and keep your focus.
Coach Pantoja, another Urbana veteran, now serves as a Civil Affairs Officer. He believes Veterans Day is about honoring those “who believe in something greater than themselves.” For him, it’s not just about recognition, but about acknowledging the sacrifices—lost time with family, physical and mental challenges, and the courage to serve so that others can live freely.
Early in his career, Pantoja was assigned to a medical unit that cared for children in hospice. Sitting beside them during their final moments changed his perspective on life. “I wanted to make a difference,” he said. “Even if it was just one person, it would be worth it.”
He also helped write a training simulation script for a fictional village before deployment—complete with characters, backstories, and even a “town painter” role, which he proudly played.
Pantoja joined the military not only for college opportunities but because of his family’s service and his desire to help others. “Military life is hard,” he said. “You’ll see things you can never forget, but it will change you for the better. You’ll know you made a difference.”
Zach Shoemaker, a Marine Corps veteran and Urbana teacher, shares similar pride. “Veterans Day is about showing appreciation for those who risked life and limb for our freedoms,” he said. “Every role matters—without their sacrifices, freedom loses its meaning.”
Shoemaker served as a Field Artillery Cannoneer, assistant crew chief, and later as a fire team leader and designated marksman. He learned to make quick, confident decisions that often meant the difference between life and death. “That decisiveness made me a better father, husband, teacher, and coach,” he said.
His favorite memory is his deployment homecoming. “After six months together, those experiences are second to none—except becoming a father,” he said. “Even after twenty years, a single nod between us says everything.”
Shoemaker joined the Marines after two years of college, looking for direction and purpose. His advice for future recruits is to plan ahead—not only for service but for life afterward. “Many people join to find direction but end up lost when they leave,” he said. “Be honest with yourself and use your military skills to build your future.”
Assistant Principal Ida Davis also values the lessons she learned during her time as a 71 Lima Administrative Specialist in the Army. “Veterans Day is meaningful because it’s a chance to honor those who served and reflect on how far they’ve come,” she said.
When Davis joined the military, she hoped it would help her grow—and it did. She learned what good leadership looks like, gained confidence, and overcame her fear of trying new things. One of her favorite memories is meeting people from across the country and forming lasting friendships.
After college, Davis was uncertain about her future. Her sister was already serving, and she was inspired to follow in her footsteps. “Choose the branch that fits you,” she advised. “Find a job that interests you and can translate into civilian life. And if you love traveling, take advantage of it—the military gives you the chance to see the world.”
Because of heroes like these, the United States no longer relies on a draft. Their courage ensures the freedom and safety we enjoy every day. Urbana High School proudly recognizes and thanks all veterans for their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice. Your service makes our nation stronger.
