Hoist a Mug for the 70th Veterans Day: Honoring 70 Years of Sacrifice and Service

On this 70th Veterans Day, we at Old Salt Coffee Company hoist a mug to all the brave men and women who have served our nation. This day reminds us that we are connected by more than shared seas and skies – we’re united by stories of courage, resilience, and the spirit of service.

In 1954, President Eisenhower signed a bill to change Armistice Day to Veterans Day, marking November 11 as a day to honor all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Since then, for 70 years, this day has been a time to recognize those who’ve worn the uniform, defended our freedoms, and come home carrying stories that we honor and cherish. Learn more about the history of Veterans Day here.

A Legacy of Service

For us here at Old Salt Coffee, Veterans Day isn’t just another date on the calendar – it’s part of our legacy. Our mission is steeped in maritime heritage and guided by the values of honor, commitment, and service. Each of our coffee blends is crafted not only to deliver a premium coffee experience but also to give back to organizations that support our military community. Every blend on our product page is aligned with a non-profit that shares our commitment to service. For example, our Silent Service coffee proudly supports the Dolphin Scholarship Foundation (DSF), which is dedicated to helping the children and spouses of U.S. Navy submariners reach their fullest potential through education. DSF believes that enhancing human potential and quality of life is possible by easing financial obstacles for those pursuing undergraduate and vocational education. Through each blend, we honor a piece of our maritime story while supporting meaningful causes. Explore our coffee and the causes they support here.

Honoring 10 Notable Navy Veterans

As we celebrate this 70th Veterans Day, we honor the legacy of service by highlighting notable Navy veterans whose dedication and courage have left a lasting impact:

1. Doris “Dorie” Miller - During the attack on Pearl Harbor, Doris Miller, a mess attendant, sprang into action amid gunfire to rescue injured shipmates and manned an anti-aircraft gun to fight back against enemy aircraft. For his bravery, he became the first African American awarded the Navy Cross, representing heroism and commitment in the face of overwhelming odds.

2. John Finn - As one of the first Americans to respond to the Pearl Harbor attack, Chief Aviation Ordnanceman John Finn displayed extraordinary bravery. Despite being injured, he continued to fight, earning the Medal of Honor. Finn’s story reflects the selflessness and resilience that defined the Navy’s response to the attack.

3. Susan Ahn Cuddy - The first Asian American woman in the Navy, Susan Ahn Cuddy broke barriers during WWII, serving as a gunnery officer and later working with Naval Intelligence. Her pioneering service paved the way for future generations, showing that determination and skill know no boundaries.

4. Carl Brashear - As the first African American Master Diver in the Navy, Carl Brashear overcame both racial prejudice and physical disability to achieve his dreams. After losing a leg, he returned to active duty, embodying the resilience and grit that are hallmarks of Navy service.

5. John Koelsch - During the Korean War, Lieutenant John Koelsch became the first helicopter pilot to receive the Medal of Honor. He volunteered to rescue a downed Marine pilot, flying through heavy fire and harsh terrain. Although he was later captured and died in captivity, his bravery exemplifies the Navy’s commitment to leaving no one behind.

6. Joe Ronnie Hooper - A highly decorated Vietnam War veteran, Hooper demonstrated unwavering courage and tenacity in over 100 combat missions. His dedication during intense firefights earned him the Medal of Honor, and he remains a powerful example of Navy valor in combat.

7. Robert Smalls - Born into slavery, Smalls’ journey to freedom began when he commandeered a Confederate ship during the Civil War and sailed it to Union forces. Later serving in the Navy, his actions became a symbol of courage and intelligence, challenging perceptions and advocating for freedom and equality.

8. Diego Hernandez - Vice Admiral Diego Hernandez’s career spanned nearly four decades, culminating in his role as the first Hispanic officer to command the Third Fleet. A respected leader, he broke barriers and inspired future generations, embodying the Navy’s spirit of excellence and perseverance.

9. James Stockdale - A Navy fighter pilot and Medal of Honor recipient, Admiral Stockdale endured over seven years as a POW in North Vietnam. His courage and moral leadership under brutal conditions have become legendary, representing the Navy’s core values of honor and commitment.

10. Grace Hopper - Known as the “Mother of Computing,” Rear Admiral Hopper’s pioneering work in computer science has had an enduring impact on technology and the Navy. Her intelligence, innovation, and dedication to progress demonstrate that service takes many forms, extending beyond the battlefield.

Each of these veterans has left a mark on history, showing us the strength, sacrifice, and integrity that define the Navy. Their contributions remind us that we stand on the shoulders of giants, whose courage lights the path for future generations. Learn more about each of these inspiring veterans here.

Our Veterans: Always Shipmates, Always Family

On this Veterans Day, let’s celebrate the strength of our veterans and the spirit that connects us all. Whether at sea, in port, or back home, veterans embody the values that make our country strong. They are our shipmates, family, and friends, bound by shared experiences and stories that live on through generations.

At Old Salt Coffee, our mission is to bring Sailors together – past and present, at sea or ashore – to share their sea stories over a cup of Old Salt Coffee. So let’s hoist our mugs, filled with the best brews from the finest coffee beans, and toast to those who have served.

To all veterans – thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your unyielding dedication to the country we call home. From all of us at Old Salt Coffee, we hoist a mug in your honor. Discover how you can support veterans in your community this Veterans Day.

Hoist a Mug for our Veterans!