On this Veterans Day, we take a moment to acknowledge the significance of our military roots and the impact they have on our organization. REV, founded in 1955 as Charleston Air Force Base Credit Union, has a rich heritage deeply intertwined with the values of America’s armed forces. While much has changed over the years, one thing remains constant – the value of serving. Today, we proudly continue to honor our heritage by serving our members and the community, guided by the principles instilled in us by our military founders.

The responsibility in serving our community is also reflected in the dedication of our employees and board members. Eight former servicemen and servicewomen have a combined total of 116 years of military service. To us, this is more than just a statistic. It’s a testimony to the values of hard work and sacrifice that motivate us to this day.

A Legacy of Dedication

At the heart of our commitment to service is people like Bill Hamilton. Having retired from the United States Air Force after 35 years, Hamilton is not only a longtime member of REV but also a demonstration of what it means to serve. “For me it was a family calling. I grew up in the Air Force as my father retired from the Air Force,” Hamilton said. “My son is presently in the Air Force with 15 years of service. My wife is retired from the Air Force, as well as her father, two of her sisters, and both of their husbands. It is a sense of pride for all of us as citizens of the United States.” This legacy of service echoes the spirit with which REV was established.

Hamilton recognizes the invaluable lessons he learned during his time in the military, particularly the importance of teamwork and pride in one’s work. “I learned the secret to good leadership is good followership,” Hamilton said. “You can’t be a leader without followers. Being a good follower and learning the basics of any job or position allows you to progress up the ladder of success and eventually become a good leader. Getting to know and taking care of your people is essential to that.”

Bill Hamilton

U.S. Air Force - 35 Years Chief Master Sergeant

Bette Thomas

U.S. Air Force - 21 Years Master Sergeant

Military Values in Action

The idea that service is not only essential but also life-changing lies at the core of our organization. We strive to provide our members with high-quality products and solutions that help them get to where they want to be financially. Our commitment to building strong relationships and our respect for the communities we live in have helped us create a culture that stands out for its empathy, trustworthiness, and dedication.

 

For Bette Thomas, an Air Force veteran and current board member, service excellence is a lifelong dedication to helping others achieve a better life with higher standards. These higher standards align with the three core values of the Air Force: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do.
“To the benefit of others who are living their lives serving me and because service is an ongoing sustainable action, I treat my volunteer responsibility as an act of service,” Thomas said. “Banking policies and digital financial technology are some of the most important services in today’s fast changing world. By combining our time, resources, commitment, gifts, talents, experiences, insights and best practices, we take stock in our strengths and vulnerabilities and conclude with how best to support the overall needs of our members and community.”

 

REV is deeply rooted in the principles of integrity and excellence that guided our founders. We believe exceptional service is not just about providing financial solutions, but also about building meaningful connections and fostering long-lasting relationships. We remain true to the belief that serving others is the highest calling.

Serving the Community Through Shared Values

Just as Hamilton and Thomas exemplify the values of the military, REV stands as a constant symbol of commitment to both its membership and the broader community. While we may have evolved from our beginnings as a credit union on an Air Force base, the principles that guided us then are the same ones that drive us now. We take pride in our ability to provide personalized attention, expert guidance, and a genuine commitment to our members’ financial success. It is this understanding of the importance of service, integrity, and excellence that sets us apart and allows us to make a positive and sustainable impact.

By consistently upholding these values of service, integrity, and excellence, REV sets itself apart from others in the industry, solidifying its role as a trusted and reliable financial community partner.

Paul Imbornone

U.S. Navy - 10 Years - CMT2 - ES

Richard Hicks

U.S. Air Force - 2 Years Airman

Diane Robinson

U.S. Air Force - 9 Years SSGT - 1st Combat Camera SQ

Dee Jordan

U.S. Navy - 5 Years - SM3 Third Class Petty Officer

Tony Draughn

U.S. Air Force - 30 Years Chief Master Sergeant

Brad Mallett

U.S. Air Force - 4 Years E-4

Contributing to a Communal Legacy

The military heritage of REV has given us a unique perspective on community and collective responsibility. We understand that by taking care of our members and their financial well-being, we are contributing to the overall strength and success of the community. Every decision we make, every service we provide, is guided by this principle.

As we celebrate Veterans Day, we pay tribute to our military roots and the values that continue to shape our organization. REV remains steadfast in its pledge to teamwork, leadership, and service. It draws inspiration from the dedication and sacrifice of the armed forces, understanding that by upholding their legacy, it can make a lasting and meaningful impact.

Today, and every day, REV expresses its heartfelt gratitude to all those who have served, and to all those who continue to serve.