Welcoming the New Year quietly from Grand Island Casino Resort, watching early-morning jockeys exercise their horses at Fonner Park Racetrack.
A Leaning Tree & Loyal Companions
Greetings from Bee, Nebraska
Greg’s story begins in Harvard, Nebraska, and travels through the wide-open landscapes of Central Nebraska where he was raised—places and people that instilled in him the values of responsibility, perseverance and service. His father Glen, a firefighter who later turned to selling used cars, and his stepfather Davis, each left a mark: from Glen, Greg picked up two cornerstones— a commitment to serve and an ability to charm, connect and earn trust.
In February 1968 Greg enlisted in the U.S. Army, a step that would define many of his values and actions for decades. There is an image of Greg standing in front of the field house: a machine gun slung low across his leg, a cigarette dangling from his mouth. His grandson Connor looked up at that photo and said, “Grandpa, you were cool!” To Greg, the compliment wasn’t just about the image—it meant being seen, being respected and being a model for the next generation.
Now based in Nebraska, Greg brings his background—firefighter roots, sales-smarts, Army-service ethic—into his work supporting veterans, leading in the community and mentoring those coming up. Whether advising veteran policy, supporting local initiatives or simply being a strong presence for his family and friends, Greg shows up. The photo with the gun and cigarette isn’t the story—it’s a symbol. The deeper story is about character, legacy and a life lived with purpose.