Back in February of 2015, I had the pleasure of sitting with Staff Sergeant Eric C. Ensley, from Michigan’s 126th Cavalry Regiment. They served both in Afghanistan and Iraq. The opportunity was afforded by the good men at [ Has Heart ]; 8-year Navy veteran Michael Hyacinthe and artist, designer Tyler Way.
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Together, they are the philanthropic group that helps veterans in their assimilation back home. Four years running, they’ve paired us soft-handed inexperienced designer-types with those who gave everything to secure our freedom. I saw it as an opportunity to use my training much in the way of the WWII field artist to convey courage, commitment, and dedication. In this case through a sellable product. Profits and proceeds are given to support wounded veterans. The intangible profit is to offer some color to this great American experience and bring healing and comfort to those who need it.
Frankly, I felt in awe to sit in their company. Me an advertising and marketing guy. Eric, an unflinching bold American veteran hero. Respectfully, I sat up straight, listened, and stuck with my purpose. It started with our shared civilian experiences and then we dove into Eric’s story. I documented everything available to me. From his first infantry training jump in Eastern Europe to his first tour in Iraq. Shortly after his return, he took a promotion in the US Army and served in Afghanistan. There everything he trained for was put to use.
His willingness to share his story was an honor. His drive and commitment to bring his boys home alive was harrowing. And his stories of assimilation back to a society that hardly understands the warrior code required the type of bravery it took to lead his patrol in the Kandahar region. Throughout those two days I took in everything and it changed my life.
When asked by a staff member, what word would you use to describe your partner, Eric? Immediately Courage came to mind. More than ever, I face each day with a sense of Courage like never before and I have Eric to thank for that. Thank you Eric. You changed my life.
To purchase the work Eric and I created together or to support the organization and the veterans involved visit the site, [ Has Heart ].
