82 YEARS LATER… Always Remember!
John F. Kennedy once said, “We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.”
On July 17, 1944, tragedy struck our nation in a moment that forever changed hundreds of American families. The Port Chicago disaster, the largest domestic wartime disaster in American history claiming the lives of 320 U.S. Navy servicemen when a massive munitions explosion tore through the harbor at Port Chicago, California.
Among those killed was my grandfather, Seaman First Class Wayland Causey, who served as a U.S. Naval Armed Guard during World War II. He was loading munitions onto the SS E.A. Bryan, bound for the Pacific Theater, when the devastating explosion occurred. Hundreds more were injured, and an entire community was shaken in an instant. My grandfather left behind his beloved wife, Lillian, three young sons, and a six-month-old baby girl named Martha (my mother).
I often think about the unimaginable pain my grandmother and so many other families endured after receiving the news that their loved ones would never return home. Behind every name etched in history is a family forever changed.
That is why Memorial Day means so much to me.
This year marks the 15th anniversary of Carry The Load, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring and celebrating our nation’s heroes by connecting Americans to the sacrifices made by military members, veterans, first responders, and their families.
Every Memorial Day weekend, thousands of people from across the country gather in Dallas to walk, remember, and carry the stories of those who served. If you’ve never experienced the atmosphere at Reverchon Park during Memorial May, I encourage you to add it to your list. It is one of the most moving and humbling experiences you can witness.
This year, I will once again participate alongside my brother, family, and friends to remember, honor, and celebrate our nation’s heroes through the Memorial May events and fundraising efforts. I am honored to “carry” the memory of my grandfather, Wayland E. Causey, along with the names and stories of others who gave their lives in service to our country.
I invite you… and ask you to join me on this mission. Whether through a small donation, sharing a story, or simply taking a moment to remember someone who served, every act matters. And if there is someone you would like to honor, let me know. I would be privileged to carry their name and memory with me.
Our team, led by Brent and Yvonne Freeman is called Una Stamus, means “We Stand As One.” That message feels especially important today. Every donation, every step, and every story creates a ripple effect of gratitude and remembrance. Together, we can honor the fallen, support their families, and ensure their legacy lives on. Thank you for joining us on the journey.
Quote of the Day
“No movement ever started without the human touch.” Dill Driscoll
Check out the Tribute Wall for Wayland E. Causey
Let’s ALWAYS REMEMBER and Thank them… God Bless!
🎯 Looking to inspire your team?
Grab a copy of one of my books:
📘 Find Your Lane
📘 Life in the Leadership Lane
📘 Drive with Purpose
For team building and engagement, check out my leadership journal Milemarkers, a powerful tool to spark reflection and growth.
🎤 Need a motivational keynote speaker for your next event?
Visit my LINKTREE to learn more.
This is Move to Inspire with Bruce Waller.
For more resources—including relocation support, keynote speaking, leadership content, and the Life in the Leadership Lane podcast—visit https://www.brucewaller.com/.
📞 To connect directly, call 972-389-5673 or email Bruce.