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.

The event took place on Friday, November 1, 2019. 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 Maj. Gen. Brian Winski.

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

Colton introduced Winski, who is a Milwaukee native and graduate from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee referred to as “Eagle Six,” which is the 101st Airborne Commander’s call sign in the field and in combat.

Winski began his speech by 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.

Winski, Post Commanding General of the 101st Airborne Division, after delivering his Veteran’s Day speech, impressed upon all in attendance that Wisconsin holds an ironclad lineage with his division, which dates all the way back to the Civil War through the 8th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment.

Eagle Six shared the story of how the 101st models 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

Winski closed his address by reiterating the level of dedication and commitment veterans provide to not only their country, but also their employers, which is their common core leadership attribute in the workplace that follows with them into their prospective careers and beyond.

Winski extended his appreciation to veterans and guests by offering an opportunity after his presentation to answer questions regarding his current deployments in Syria, Afghanistan and Africa.

Winski expressed his gratitude to all who serve and have served. The Robert W. Baird, the Baird Patriot Veteran Hiring Program and the message by Winski share one thing in common—all must appreciate the hard work and dedication of veterans and servicemembers on Veteran’s Day.