Veterans Day is a time to pause, reflect, and recognize the men and women who have served our country. While November 11 gives us an opportunity to show our gratitude, supporting veterans is something that deserves attention throughout the year. At Carolina Trust Federal Credit Union, that commitment is part of our history and continues to shape the way we serve our members and our community.
Our Roots Began Serving Those Who Serve
Carolina Trust was established in 1958 as Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Federal Credit Union, originally serving military personnel and civilian employees at the base. What began as a way to provide financial services to those serving our country has grown into a credit union serving communities across the Grand Strand and beyond. While our name and membership have expanded over the years, our connection to the military remains an important part of who we are.
Our military roots are more than just a part of our history. They are reflected in the relationships we build, the organizations we support, and the opportunities we help create for veterans and their families.
Investing in the Next Chapter for Veterans
One way Carolina Trust continues to support those who have served is through the Carolina Trust Federal Credit Union Annual Veterans Scholarship, established in memory of Lieutenant Colonel James B. Kendrick, USAF/Retired.
In partnership with Coastal Carolina University Veterans Services, the $5,000 scholarship helps support veterans pursuing their education. Lieutenant Colonel Kendrick dedicated 28 years to military service and later served on Carolina Trust's Board of Directors for more than three decades. Establishing this scholarship in his memory is a meaningful way to recognize his service while investing in the next chapter for those who have served.
Supporting Veterans Beyond the Uniform
Transitioning from military service to civilian life can bring challenges, including finding stable housing, employment, and access to important resources. That's why Carolina Trust is proud to support organizations making a difference for veterans in our community.
One example is our continued support of the Veterans Welcome Home and Resource Center's Tiny Home Village. Through a $10,000 commitment, Carolina Trust helps provide local veterans with safe housing and supports expenses such as rent, utilities, food, and shelter.
We also support local VFW chapters throughout the year by contributing to golf tournaments and other fundraising events that help fund their programs and services. Whether it's supporting housing initiatives or showing up for local organizations, we believe honoring veterans means investing in the people and resources that continue to serve them.
Creating Opportunities for Those Who Serve
Supporting veterans also means recognizing the value they bring to the workplace. Carolina Trust supports the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Statement of Support initiative, which encourages employers to recognize the skills and experience service members bring to civilian employment.
The initiative promotes hiring veterans and supporting employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve, including honoring their military service obligations and supporting them when they are called to serve. It's another way businesses can show their appreciation through meaningful action and help service members maintain career opportunities while fulfilling their military commitments.
Honoring Veterans All Year Long
While organizations like Carolina Trust can make an impact through scholarships, community partnerships, and employment initiatives, there are also plenty of simple ways each of us can show appreciation for veterans in our everyday lives. Sometimes, it starts with something as small as saying thank you, taking time to listen to a veteran's story, supporting a local veterans organization, or attending a community event honoring those who served.
Growing up, I remember our local VFW organizations selling small faux poppies around Veterans Day. Every year, my dad would purchase one and display it on the dashboard of his truck. It was a simple reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans and a way to show his support. When my sister and I were old enough to drive, he started purchasing one for each of us to keep in our cars, too. It's a tradition I've always remembered, and one that reminds me that honoring veterans doesn't always require a grand gesture. Even the smallest acts of recognition can carry meaning.
As we recognize Veterans Day, I hope we all take a moment to thank the veterans in our lives and reflect on the sacrifices made by service members and their families. At Carolina Trust, we're proud of the military roots that shaped our organization and grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting those who have served, not just on Veterans Day, but throughout the year.
To all veterans, thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and the freedoms you help protect.
