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A Personal Mission

The events of September 11, 2001 provided each of us with a tragic and unforgettable lesson. Historically, most Americans had come no closer to terrorism than through their television sets. But on that tragic morning, international terrorism was brought to America and, both as individuals and as a nation, we will never be the same. We cannot go back to a simpler, safer time, but we need not go forward in fear.
Today terrorists continue to attack symbols of American prosperity, but they cannot touch our spirit. America is successful because of the American Spirit, which is based on core values that inspire pride, hard work, creativity, and an enterprising nature.
It is this resolve and courage, and ability to withstand adversity that my brother, SW2 Robert D. Stethem, displayed during the hijacking of TWA FLT 847 in 1985. He remained steadfast and courageous during this entire ordeal. Defiant to the terrorists that bound, gagged and brutally beat him, these cowards eventually shot him and unceremoniously dumped his body onto the tarmac in Beirut, Lebanon.
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USS STETHEM USS STETHEM (DDG - 63), the thirteenth ship of the ARLEIGH BURKE Class of guided missile destroyers, is the first U.S. Navy warship named to honor the life and service of Steelworker Second Class (DV) Robert Dean Stethem, USN (1961 - 1985). Commissioned in 1995, STETHEM is homeported in Yokosuka, Japan. For more information, visit http://www.stethem.navy.mil/. |
Since that time, Robert has been an inspiration to me, and many others who know his story. Robert's spirit has been with me in the development of the Aegis Team, our products and our training programs. We have built our entire company — from product design to marketing and training programs and everything in between — with one mission in mind: Defend, Protect and Preserve Life.
Aegis salutes all of the men and women in uniform who protect our country and guard our way of life. We know that each and every day these military, law enforcement, corrections, private security personnel and first responders all have an urgent need to protect themselves and others in the performance of their duties.
Thank you for serving!
Kenneth J. Stethem
Chairman & CEO
Aegis Industries


