Mike Hatfield (Captain, USN Ret.)

Chris Mayfield and his Veteran Grit co-authors are to be commended for using their life experiences-in and out uniform-to remind us of the power of remaining "always faithful." Semper Fidelis, the Marine Corps motto, embodies that ideal of total commitment to a mission and to team members. But those words didn't come from the battlefield. The phrase is centuries older than the Marines. Historians suggest that the phrase probably began in ancient Rome as its senators admonished a newly-conquered people to "remain loyal (to Rome)." Long after the fall of the Roman Empire, through the Middle Ages and to modern times, the words became the motto for clans, families and towns. They appeared on flags, coats-of-arms and in a myriad of other representations. But Semper Fidelis had taken on a different meaning as a "call to community-mindedness" and not just a "call to arms." In life and in business, as in war, adopting a strong set of values-centered around gratefulness and loyalty to our families, our country and our neighbors-will serve us well wherever we go and whatever our purpose.

Brenna Ganssle (Craig's daughter who wants to be an author one day)

By the time I was born, my dad was already out of the military. But that did not change the fact that no matter what, he never gave up. All my life he's inspired me to work hard and persevere, people even tell me I'm hardworking, and I like to think it came from him. Reading this, I feel like I've learned even more about what makes my dad who he is today. We come from a long line of military men and I respect that. During rough times in my dad's business, my parents avoided worrying my brother and me. We trusted God would provide, and He did. It's amazing how He works, and I feel as though I've gotten to see the real diligent, perseverance my dad writes about here more than I have before. Just now as I am writing this, he's been out west for a week working on kit demos out in the field. During harvest season he's always traveling, and I've seen how exhausted he gets. He'll come home tired and mildly cranky, but satisfied the work is done. Then he heads out the next week to do more. Such tenacity really motivates me to work as hard as he does.

Darrin Chestnut (Eric Nelson's friend)

Even with all of his success, Eric remains a humble and devoted family man. He is a man that cares for his community. Always remembering where he came from and trying to inspire others to accomplish their dreams.

It has been my honor telling folks about his accomplishments and letting them know that I count him as one of my closest and dearest friends. A good friend knows all your best stories, but a best friend has lived them with you. We have traveled the U.S. and the world together. Always learning. Always talking. Always growing. That small-town country young man, from Dumas, Arkansas, has enriched my life, and so many others, with his kindness, friendship and selflessness. I truly believe there is nothing he would not do for those he considers his friends. Someone wrote, "Friends are the family you choose." Well, I will always consider Eric my brother. Thank you, Eric, for being my friend and brother.

Lt.Col. Rick Lingle, USMCR Ret

Colonel Jim Donlan is the epitome of a Marine. Tough, smart, and cool under fire, he has served with valor and earned the respect of all the Marines and soldiers he has served with. He is a proven leader on the battlefield and as an entrepreneur. Jim has taken the wisdom and experience of 30 years of Marine Corps service and translated it into a successful business career.