MILWAUKEE, Wis.—Gray Colton, Chairperson for the Robert W. Baird & Co. Patriot Veteran Hiring Program invited veterans of the University of Wisconsin Whitewater to attend the Baird Patriot Veteran Career Forum on Friday, November 1st, 2019. Gray Colton is the Senior Vice President of Private Wealth and Management for the Robert W. Baird & Co.

Colton arranged to have the 101st Airborne Commander share his mission with members of the Patriot program and veterans. Colton was pleased to see so many veterans turned out to support the Patriot mission, who gave a cordial introduction to Major General Brian Winski.

“We are honored to have Eagle Six with us today,” said Colton.

Colton introduced Major General Brian Winski, Milwaukee, WI native and graduate from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee as “Eagle Six,” which is the 101st Airborne Commander’s call sign in the field and in combat. Major General Winski began his speech addressing the need to hire veterans who shared the value of having veterans in the workplace.

“Every man and woman who wears America’s uniform is a part of a long unbroken line of achievement and honor. No single military power in history has done greater good, shown greater courage, liberated more people or upheld higher standards of decency and valor than the Armed Forces of the United States of America,” said Winski.

Major General Brian Winksi, Post Commanding General of the 101st Airborne Division left the impression Wisconsin holds an ironclad lineage with his division who dates all the way back to the Civil War through the 8th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment. Eagle Six shared the story of how the 101st modeled the efforts of those who served with the 8th in the Civil War and their mascot “Old Abe,” which is the icon for the 101st Airborne Screaming Eagle patch.

Wisconsin 101st Airborne Heritage Speaks

Maj. Gen. Winski closed his address to the Baird Patriot Hiring Program members by reiterating to employers the level of dedication a veteran commits to their country also follows them into their prospective careers. Maj. Gen. Winski extended his appreciation to veterans by taking an opportunity after his presentation to answer questions regarding Syria, Afghanistan and Africa. Winski closed with his expression of gratitude extended to all who serve. Robert W. Baird, the Baird Patriot Veteran Hiring Program and the message shared by Major General Brian Winski shared one thing in common—all appreciate the efforts by all who have served.