Highly regarded in the Armed Forces, Navy Captain Gerald L. Coffee's military decorations include the Silver Star, two awards of the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnam Service Medal with 13 stars. Through tremendous courage and resolve, Captin Coffee lived as a POW in the Communist prisons of North Vietnam for 7 years. After his repatriation in February, 1973, Jerry returned to operation duties, giving 28 years of service.

Our lives are a continuing journey - and we must learn and grow at every bend as we make our way, sometimes stumbling, but always moving toward the finest within us.

Sometimes we falter, but God does not let us fall. We become closer to the person we are supposed to be if we allow ourselves to learn, grow and love.