Remember, Reflect, and Respect …
This Memorial Day, I’m doing something different. Instead of just calling my grandfather, as I usually do, I’m putting into words what he means to me — not only as a decorated Army officer who served for 28 years, but as the strongest, wisest, kindest, and holiest man I know.
I realized how much he meant to me when I was 15. He had just officiated my cousin Faith’s wedding. Though he had lost his wife—the love of his life—five years earlier, he stood with grace to unite two people in love, with God beside them and his own heart still open. That moment told me everything I needed to know about his strength, compassion, and purpose.
Just recently, he invited me to dinner for a check-in — a simple act, but it reminded me again how deeply he cares. That’s the kind of man he is. Today, I’m writing this because I want the world to see who he is through my eyes. I’m proud of my grandfather, and I’m proud of my love for him.
His Military Service
My grandfather, Lt. Col. Emanuel Logan Williams, served in the United States Army for 28 years. While I don’t know every detail of his journey through the ranks or exactly what drew him to the Army — I believe it may have been through an ROTC program — I do know that the Army became a core part of who he is.
One of my favorite stories he ever told us was about a training mission. He and his unit were preparing for a jump — parachuting out of a plane, aiming for a precise landing site. Just before he was set to jump, his commanding officer turned to him and said, “Williams. The hospital called. Your wife has safely delivered a son.” That son would later become my father. That moment, mid-air between service and new life, feels like such a symbol of who my grandfather is — fully present in both duty and devotion.
He doesn’t talk much about honors or medals, but he does speak with quiet pride about being a Vietnam Veteran. Service didn’t just define his career; it shaped his spirit. It gave him rhythm and routine, taught him patience, and embedded in him a kind of humble pride that he’s carried into every part of his life. He is a man who is humble in his pride and patient in his haste — a balance few ever master.
LTC E. L. Williams USA (Ret) - Normandy American Cemetery, Colleville-sur-Mer, France 7/4/17
The Man Behind the Uniform
Upon retiring he became a chaplain — a role that fits him perfectly. He’s a man of deep faith, quiet wisdom, and unwavering strength.
What gives my grandfather his strength isn’t just discipline or experience — it’s his faith and his family. That’s where his power lives. He never misses a holiday dinner. He’s always the one to pray over the meal, voice steady and eyes closed, as if he’s speaking directly to God. It’s not performative — it’s just who he is: a man who lives his faith gently, consistently, and without fanfare.
He’s the kind of person who thanks you so sincerely for the smallest gesture — a cup of coffee, a favor, a visit — that you end up feeling like you should thank him for letting you help. I often find myself doing things for him out of reverence — not just for his service to our country, but for the sacrifices he’s made for our family. But the way he expresses gratitude makes me feel seen in ways I didn’t expect.
His faith is constant and quiet. He prays every night before bed. He can quote scripture effortlessly, not as a way to impress, but as a natural expression of how deeply the Word lives in him. He serves as an on-call chaplain at his church — not for the title, but because that’s just who he is: someone who shows up when others need him.
His Legacy
If there’s one thing my grandfather has taught me, it’s to be present. Not just to be physically there, but to truly see people — to listen, to acknowledge them, to honor what they bring into the room. The way he carries himself calls me to view the world not with haste or judgment, but through the eyes of a young man striving to be calm, collected, and observant. A man who honors others for who they are and what they’re capable of.
Because of him, I close my eyes when I pray. I kneel for the Cross. I stand for the Flag. These aren’t just gestures — they’re choices, acts of reverence. I do them because he does, and because a part of me wants to be him — or at least live in a way that reflects the integrity and purpose he’s always shown.
I can’t speak for how deeply he’s influenced the rest of my family, but I know the impact he’s had on me is lifelong. If I had to choose two words to describe his legacy, they would be diligent and zoetic. Even in old age, he hasn’t missed a family occasion. And despite that old age, he’s still full of life — not just breathing, but living, guiding, showing up.
My Reflection
I love you, Granddad. You’re a marvel in my eyes. I don’t even know how to begin to be a man like you. How does someone so great carry himself so humbly? How does someone love his family the way you do?
Honoring you this Memorial Day means calling you, hearing your voice, and showing you how much I love and appreciate you. Even though we’re states apart, I carry you with me every day, and I want you to know just how grateful I am — not just for your service, but for your unwavering presence in my life.
Emanuel & Joseph (2023)
Tribute to Lt. Col. Emanuel Logan Williams – My Hero
by Joseph Williams, Public Relations and Communications Specialist
Sales, Marketing, and Communications - Heagney Logan Group / HLG StartingPointe
Want to learn more about Emanuel Williams
Black and White Piano Keys
Retired Army veteran Emanuel Williams tells his story of military service, family, and faith in Christ. His book reflects on key moments from his life—both in uniform and at home. His book offers an inside look at his journey, written to inform, encourage, and pass on hard-earned perspective.
“A must read autobiography for anyone aspiring to live a Christ-centered life. Rev. Emanuel Williams and his transcendent 93 year-and-counting life story are a much needed beacon of light and timeless inspiration for us all! Five stars!”
Black and White Piano Keys by Emanuel Williams
Emanuel Williams | Soldier For Christ
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Ret.) Infantry and Special Forces Officer – Airborne Division 1954–1981 (28 years)
Soldier for Christ: 1948–Present (77+ years)
Son. Soldier. Husband. Father. Chaplain. Grandfather. Mentor. Sunday School Teacher. Great-Grandfather. A lifelong servant. A soldier for the Lord.
3:36
Emanuel Williams | Airborne
Inspired by former President George H. W. Bush, who celebrated his 90th birthday in 2014 by parachuting, Emanuel marked his own 90th birthday in 2021 by reliving his days as an Airborne-qualified military parachutist—jumping 58 years after his first jump on June 9, 1963—inspiring many with his determination and zest for life.
1:04
