The Pennsylvania District of Kiwanis is blessed to have many members who have served our nation in the military. These individuals answered the call to duty with distinction, honor, and courage. Many
are true heroes whose sacrifices helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.
Among them is Cathy Szymanski, Kiwanis International President-Elect, who proudly served in the United States Army. Her leadership and commitment to service continue to inspire Kiwanians throughout
Pennsylvania and around the world.
I also had the honor and privilege of serving our country in the United States Navy. Military service is a commitment to something greater than oneself. It teaches duty, sacrifice, teamwork, and dedication to a
mission. Those lessons have remained with me throughout my life and continue to guide my service as a Kiwanian. Having worn the uniform, I have a deep appreciation for the men and women who answered our nation’s call, and I am proud to stand beside so many veterans who continue their service through Kiwanis.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of meeting Kiwanis members who served during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Their stories of sacrifice,
perseverance, and dedication remind us of the tremendous price paid for our freedom.
One of those remarkable individuals was Bill Fifield, a Past President and 48-year member of the Kiwanis Club of Easton. Bill served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army’s Third Infantry Division from 1943 to 1946. During his service in the European Theater, he was awarded not one, but two Purple Hearts for bravery under fire. Bill was a true American hero who carried the scars of war with humility and grace.
Bill passed way in 2020, but I will always remember him walking into Kiwanis meetings at the Pomfret Club with a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone he met. Like so many veterans, he exemplified
service above self long after his military service had ended.
I have also had the honor of serving as a guardian on an Honor Flight for a Korean War veteran sponsored by a Kiwanis club. It was a powerful experience and a reminder of why we must never forget
those who served and sacrificed on our behalf. Across Pennsylvania, Kiwanis clubs continue to pay tribute to veterans in meaningful ways. Clubs organize Fields of Honor displays, sponsor Hometown Heroes programs, support Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion events, participate in Poppy Days, and recognize veterans in their communities. These activities not only honor our military heroes but also strengthen the bonds within our communities.
These efforts reflect the Sixth Object of Kiwanis:
“To cooperate in creating and maintaining that sound public opinion and high idealism which make possible the increase of righteousness,justice, patriotism, and goodwill.“
As we pause to recognize our veterans, let us remember that their service did not end when they returned home. Many have continued serving through organizations such as Kiwanis, dedicating themselves to improving the lives of children and strengthening their communities.
On Veterans Day, and every day, we honor those who served. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to preserving freedom deserve our deepest gratitude. May we honor them not only with words, but through our actions and our continued commitment to serving our communities and the children of the world.
To all veterans who wear the Kiwanis pin, and to all who have served our nation, thank you for your service. Pennsylvania Kiwanis proudly salutes you.
Serving the Children of the World,
Janet Owen
Governor, Pennsylvania District of Kiwanis
United States Navy Veteran ⚓����
Last Updated: November 11, 2026 by pennsylvaniakiwanis
Honoring Those Who Served
The Pennsylvania District of Kiwanis is blessed to have many members who have served our nation in the military. These individuals answered the call to duty with distinction, honor, and courage. Many
are true heroes whose sacrifices helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.
Among them is Cathy Szymanski, Kiwanis International President-Elect, who proudly served in the United States Army. Her leadership and commitment to service continue to inspire Kiwanians throughout
Pennsylvania and around the world.
I also had the honor and privilege of serving our country in the United States Navy. Military service is a commitment to something greater than oneself. It teaches duty, sacrifice, teamwork, and dedication to a
mission. Those lessons have remained with me throughout my life and continue to guide my service as a Kiwanian. Having worn the uniform, I have a deep appreciation for the men and women who answered our nation’s call, and I am proud to stand beside so many veterans who continue their service through Kiwanis.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of meeting Kiwanis members who served during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Their stories of sacrifice,
perseverance, and dedication remind us of the tremendous price paid for our freedom.
One of those remarkable individuals was Bill Fifield, a Past President and 48-year member of the Kiwanis Club of Easton. Bill served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army’s Third Infantry Division from 1943 to 1946. During his service in the European Theater, he was awarded not one, but two Purple Hearts for bravery under fire. Bill was a true American hero who carried the scars of war with humility and grace.
Bill passed way in 2020, but I will always remember him walking into Kiwanis meetings at the Pomfret Club with a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone he met. Like so many veterans, he exemplified
service above self long after his military service had ended.
I have also had the honor of serving as a guardian on an Honor Flight for a Korean War veteran sponsored by a Kiwanis club. It was a powerful experience and a reminder of why we must never forget
those who served and sacrificed on our behalf. Across Pennsylvania, Kiwanis clubs continue to pay tribute to veterans in meaningful ways. Clubs organize Fields of Honor displays, sponsor Hometown Heroes programs, support Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion events, participate in Poppy Days, and recognize veterans in their communities. These activities not only honor our military heroes but also strengthen the bonds within our communities.
These efforts reflect the Sixth Object of Kiwanis:
“To cooperate in creating and maintaining that sound public opinion and high idealism which make possible the increase of righteousness,justice, patriotism, and goodwill.“
As we pause to recognize our veterans, let us remember that their service did not end when they returned home. Many have continued serving through organizations such as Kiwanis, dedicating themselves to improving the lives of children and strengthening their communities.
On Veterans Day, and every day, we honor those who served. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to preserving freedom deserve our deepest gratitude. May we honor them not only with words, but through our actions and our continued commitment to serving our communities and the children of the world.
To all veterans who wear the Kiwanis pin, and to all who have served our nation, thank you for your service. Pennsylvania Kiwanis proudly salutes you.
Serving the Children of the World,
Janet Owen
Governor, Pennsylvania District of Kiwanis
United States Navy Veteran ⚓����
Category: Governor Blog