This month’s Veteran of the Month is Harold W. “Hal” Davis. Hal’s remarkable journey in the U.S. Navy reflects a lifelong commitment to service, family, and community.
From an early age, Hal was driven by a curiosity to experience the world and a desire to give back. Hal Joined the Navy in May 1957 which provided opportunities to see the world while serving his country. Hal began his career as an E-1, advancing to E-6 as an Aviation Electronics Technician before attending Officer Candidate School in 1965. Hal ultimately retired as a Lieutenant Commander, Surface Warfare Officer, after 25 years of dedicated service that included deployments to South America, the Mediterranean, and the Western Pacific.
Reflecting on his time in service, Hal shared that the Vietnam War was a particularly impactful period; it was not a single event but a collection of experiences that shaped his perspective. From this time, Hal learned important lessons about self-awareness, confronting personal prejudices, and embracing open-mindedness. Hal emphasized the need to educate ourselves on the origins of our biases and to strive toward understanding others’ experiences. For Hal, respecting religious precepts and the laws of the nation provides a strong foundation for his values that guide his interactions and decisions in life.
Hal’s service profoundly shaped his approach to life and believes in the importance of coexisting with people of different cultures, experiences, and perspectives. When asked if he would serve again, Hal responded without hesitation: “Absolutely—as necessary to defend our country, our families, our loved ones, our friends, our neighbors.”
Hal’s reflections are a reminder that service extends far beyond the battlefield—into how we live, love, and impact the communities around us. Hal’s life story, values, and dedication to service embody the spirit of CFV’s mission: to serve those who have served us.