In honor of Veterans Day, I Need A Speaker sat down with SSG Earl Granville, an infantryman in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, to discuss his military service, the meaning of Veterans Day, and how his experiences translate to public speaking. SSG Granville shares his personal story and insights that shed light on the important ways we can support and honor our nation’s veterans.
INAS: What is your name/title and military involvement?
EG: SSG Earl Granville. I was an infantryman in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.
INAS: Why did you decide to join the military?
EG: I was talked into joining the military by my twin brother, Joseph. My original incentive was a free education, but while Joe and I were in Basic Training at Ft. Benning, our nation came under attack on 9/11. So, I shifted my reason for joining.
INAS: What does Veterans Day mean to you?
EG: Veterans Day to me is a day to remember those who served our country.
INAS: What are some ways people can honor Veterans Day?
EG: It’s very simple! I say recognizing your family, friends, coworkers, etc. for the work they did wearing that uniform. A simple thank you or a small gesture of gratitude can go a long way, especially remembering our Vietnam Veterans.
SSG Earl Granville
INAS: How has your military background helped you as a speaker?
EG: When I started taking leadership roles in Iraq, I started taking command of vehicles during our convoys or squad-leading during patrols. Being confident, optimistic and open minded during a mission is important to your soldiers. Things may not go as planned. Thinking on the fly when a situation went sideways kept me on my toes when deployed. I look at it the same way when speaking with kids. Remember, young, intermediate students will be young students and curious with their Q&A. Sometimes a question they ask may seem inappropriate, and, with respect to the student and the audience, you may have to adjust how you answer a question.
INAS: How can event planners best support our veterans and military personnel?
EG: Recognizing those who served. I’ve spoken to many audiences from corporations and organizations that held events to honor those who’ve worn the uniform. I’d say, even if they would agree to, having one of their own veteran employees tell their story and reason for joining. If they agree, you may learn something extraordinary about your fellow coworker that you’ve never known before.
INAS: What’s one practical strategy from your military experience that translates surprisingly well to public speaking?
How I verbally delivered our OpOrders to my squad before a mission while deployed is one thing I took with me in speaking today. Having confidence and a positive attitude even when, on paper, things may look sideways, can build trust and help bring optimism with my team. It’s the same thing with my audiences today. I want them to be engaged and, not just intrigued with my message, but also entertained with my storytelling of my ideas of battling adversity, the power of what a great community can bring, and never carrying the weight alone.
This Veterans Day, put gratitude into action. Take a moment to reach out to the veterans in your workplace, family, or community. Ask about their stories, express your appreciation, and consider organizing an event where veterans can share their experiences. As SSG Granville reminds us, sometimes the simplest gesture—a sincere “thank you for your service”—can make a profound difference in a veteran’s life.
