Serving something greater, gives more gains back

Sgt. Nick Kostka, National Guard, was the guest speaker, where he shared his path to a military career. Kostka is one of the 7,000 men and women who are currently on active duty, serving their country. Photo by Ginna Young

By Ginna Young

Veterans Day is an important time for the Cornell and Lake Holcombe school districts, and this year, Nov. 11, was no exception, as they each hosted Sgt. Nick Kostka. Kostka has served seven years, in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, and has received the Army Achievement, Army Reserve Component Achievement, National Defense Service and Armed Forces Service medal.

Like many of his comrades, Kostka is grateful for not just those he’s served with, but all those who came before him. In fact, Kostka is so passionate about the history of veterans, that he added up how many service people there have been since the Revolutionary War – 40 million.

“Veterans of all generations have served, suffered and sacrificed for our freedoms,” said Kostka. “But, today, less than 1 percent of our country serves.”

Kostka had no intention of entering the military, but as a young man, he realized it would be a way to pay for college. That turned into a career, with Kostka now a recruiter for the National Guard.

“We may have our differences in this country,” he said, “but we are truly the most blessed nation in the world, thanks to the service and sacrifice of those who have worn this uniform.

Kostka encouraged those present to give back in some way, even if they cannot be in the military, whether it be helping the community, their church or organization.

“I figured out…that when you serve something greater than yourself willingly, you gain from that service, more than you will realize.