Good morning, BNI Tampa Family. Today, I want to share two impactful stories that carry profound lessons about integrity and courage.

In the bustling city of Chicago, there was a lawyer named Easy Eddie. Despite being involved in organized crime as Al Capone’s attorney, Easy Eddie had a deep desire to provide a better life for his son, Butch O’Hare. His journey took a risky turn when he decided to testify against the mob, aiming to clean his tarnished name and offer his son a semblance of integrity.

The cost for Easy Eddie was high; within a year, his life ended in a blaze of gunfire on the streets of Chicago. His sacrifice set the stage for his son’s journey.

Now, let’s shift our focus to a different hero—Butch O’Hare. During World War II, Butch became a Navy pilot stationed on the USS Lexington in the South Pacific. In a daring mission, he noticed his fuel running critically low, yet he chose to defend his squadron and the American fleet from an incoming Japanese attack.

Butch engaged the enemy, destroying several Japanese aircraft and becoming the Navy’s first Ace of World War II. His bravery was captured by a camera mounted on his plane, telling the tale of a man who put safety aside for the greater good.

But Butch’s heroic journey was tragically cut short at the age of 29 during aerial combat.

What connects these two stories is the powerful theme that actions speak louder than words. Easy Eddie’s sacrifice and Butch O’Hare’s heroism teach us valuable lessons about integrity, courage, and the profound impact one person can have.

As members of BNI Tampa, we understand the importance of our actions within our Chapters and the wider community. Just as Easy Eddie strived for integrity, and Butch O’Hare exhibited courage, let’s carry these principles into our businesses.

We are more than a network; we are a family—a BNI Tampa Family. The strength of our community lies in the character of each Member. Let’s continue to support and inspire one another, embodying the principles of integrity and courage in every action we take.

The amazing connection of these two stories is that Butch O’Hare was Easy Eddie’s son!

Thank you for your time!