Veterans Day Special: Chamber President Matt Baird on Service & Community
Description
Host Nick Parker sits down with Matt Baird, President of the Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce and military veteran, for a meaningful Veterans Day conversation about service, sacrifice, and community connection.
Matt opens up about his military journey — from being a history-loving kid who dreamed of service to his time in ROTC and active duty. He candidly discusses both the rewards and challenges of military service, including the leadership issues that ultimately led to his decision to leave active duty.
The conversation explores how America's treatment of veterans has evolved across generations, from the Greatest Generation's reluctance to share their stories to Vietnam veterans' difficult homecomings to today's more supportive environment.
Matt shares the impactful work of the Chamber's Military Affairs Committee, including:
- The downtown veterans banner program that sells out every year
- Welcome packets for new Whiteman Air Force Base airmen filled with Lee's Summit goodies
- Annual Veterans Day luncheon honoring local veterans
- Wreaths Across America and support for the Veterans Day Parade
- Partnership with local JROTC programs and Civil Air Patrol
You'll be surprised to learn just how many Whiteman Air Force Base personnel — including one-third of B-2 pilots — choose to make Lee's Summit home, largely because of our excellent school district.
A thoughtful episode about honoring service while building authentic community connections.
United States
