Kimberly Mitchell (USNA ’96) has an extraordinary life story.

It began on the killing fields of Vietnam, and did not end there because a long line of people⁠—old men, young soldiers, anonymous nuns, adoptive parents⁠—cared more for the welfare of a motherless orphan than they did for their own convenience, comfort, and safety.

In her own words, to veterans who served during the Vietnam War:

I am here because you chose to serve when service was unpopular, and you did so with honor, courage and valor.

I have a life in America because of you. I served in the Navy because of your service. I work to ensure that veterans and their families have the resources they need because, when you came home, you didn’t.

Your leadership ensures that my generation’s service is appreciated, and I will not allow your sacrifice to be forgotten.

This week, RINGKNOCKER is honored to present Kim’s story as an expression of gratitude to those who came before us and showed us the way. Please share this invitation with any current or former military officer who served during the Vietnam war. Kim’s story is their story too.

Sometime’s it’s about leadership. Sometimes it’s about knowing whom you follow. Don’t miss this one.