On a day when our nation paused to remember the heartbreak and loss of September 11, 2001, it felt especially appropriate for our students to hear from someone who has spent his life in service to others.
Gateway CEO was honored to have John Miller as a guest speaker on Friday, September 11, the 25th anniversary of 9/11. John was born in a suburb of Cleveland and joined the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam era, eventually being stationed at Scott Air Force Base. Just 28 days after marrying his wife, he was sent to Vietnam for a year.
When he returned home, his path eventually led him to the Collinsville Fire Department, where he would spend the next 31 years. John made learning a priority throughout his career, taking firefighting and management courses and working his way to Lieutenant and then Captain, overseeing all three fire stations.
But his service didn't stop when he retired from the Fire Department.
John was elected to Collinsville City Council and, following the unexpected death of Mayor Stan Schaeffer, was appointed to finish his term. He then went on to serve 15 years as Mayor of Collinsville—the longest-serving mayor in the city's history.
When asked by our students why he chose to serve his country and his community, his answer was simple: He loved helping people.
He shared one story that really brought that answer to life. During his years as a firefighter, John once helped deliver a baby girl, Bonnie Jean, during a snowstorm when getting to the hospital was difficult. Years later, he had the incredible opportunity to meet Bonnie Jean again—as an adult. What began as an emergency call became a lifelong connection and a joyful reunion.
John talked honestly about the sacrifices that came with each of his careers—missing his daughters' activities, working holidays and being away from his family. But he wouldn't trade the experiences.
His message to our students was one we hope they carry with them: A life of service is a life well lived.
Whether in business, civic leadership, firefighting or military service, the principles of success remain the same: give your best, work hard, lead with integrity, and be honest.
And on a day when we remember so many who gave everything in service to others, hearing John's story was a particularly meaningful reminder of what it means to serve.
Thank you, John, for sharing your story—and for a lifetime of service to our country and our community.
We remember. We honor. We serve.
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