Honoring a Hero: Laura Dean's Commitment to Service and Community

As we observe Memorial Day, a time to honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, Nuvision is proud to feature Laura Dean, a distinguished veteran whose commitment to service continues to resonate within the community of Anchorage, Alaska. Laura, a former Air Force officer, exemplifies the enduring spirit of a hero, tirelessly dedicating herself to the well-being of fellow veterans and civilians alike. Through her continued efforts in both military and civilian roles, she bridges communities and fosters a legacy of service and dedication that honors the memory of the fallen.

A Veteran’s Journey: Service Beyond the Uniform

Laura’s military career is marked by many notable achievements, from receiving the Air Force Commendation Medal to her contributions as an intelligence officer. After serving her country with distinction, Laura transitioned to civilian life, bringing her leadership and dedication to the Anchorage community. Her impact is profound, bridging gaps between veterans, civilians, and local businesses through her roles with the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce and the American Legion.

Leading with Compassion and Innovation

At the heart of Laura’s story is her innovative approach to community service, particularly in her efforts to combat veteran suicide. As an adjutant at The American Legion Jack Henry Post 1, she has doubled membership, spearheaded suicide prevention programs using video games, and revamped the post’s governance structures. Her initiatives don't just fill an immediate need—they create lasting changes that ensure ongoing support for veterans.

Memorial Day: A Time to Reflect and Serve

Laura’s personal connection to Memorial Day is deeply rooted in tradition and service. From childhood memories of cleaning veterans' headstones with her family to orchestrating headstone cleanings in Anchorage, she embodies the spirit of the day with a heartfelt dedication to honoring the fallen.

From an early age, Laura was instilled with a profound respect for those who served. Each year, her family would visit the gravesites, spending time cleaning and restoring the headstones, not only of their own relatives but of other headstones that are in need of care. This personal tradition fostered in Laura a deep commitment to honoring the memory of the fallen, a tradition she carries forward to this day.

In Anchorage, Laura has significantly expanded these efforts. Collaborating with Nuvision Credit Union, she has been instrumental in organizing community-wide headstone cleanings. These events not only preserve the dignity of the fallen, but also engage the community in a collective act of remembrance and respect.

A Call to Action

As we approach Memorial Day, Laura’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community service. She encourages everyone to find a cause they are passionate about and make  an impact on their community. Her story is not just one of military valor but of a continued commitment to enriching the lives of others through thoughtful, impactful community engagement.

Laura Dean's journey from an Air Force officer to a community leader in Anchorage represents the best of what it means to serve. As we commemorate Memorial Day, let us draw inspiration from her dedication and consider how we, too, can contribute to our communities in meaningful ways. Laura teaches us that heroism can manifest in many forms, and often, it’s found in the quiet dedication to making the world a better place for all.

In celebrating Laura Dean this month, we celebrate every individual who has served and continues to serve—not just in uniform but in continuous commitment to their communities and fellow veterans.