The Marine Corps taught me integrity, discipline, and service matter
I grew up in North Phoenix with supportive parents and a promising future ahead. College was always the plan, but while I enjoyed classes and friendships, I couldn't shake the feeling something was missing. I wanted purpose—something bigger than myself.
Gilbert & Phoenix Metro Veterans Events - November 2025:
- Veterans Day Parade - Downtown Gilbert - November 11, 9:00 AM Join the community honoring service members with marching bands, veteran organizations, and local groups celebrating those who served our nation with pride and dedication.
- Heroes Recognition Ceremony - Gilbert Veterans Oasis Park - November 11, 11:00 AM A moving tribute featuring keynote speakers, military honors, and wreath-laying commemorating veterans' sacrifice.
- Phoenix Veterans Day Concert - Margaret T. Hance Park - November 9, 6:00 PM Enjoy patriotic performances by local musicians and symphony orchestra under the stars.
- Mesa Veterans Memorial Service - Mesa Amphitheatre - November 11, 10:00 AM Solemn remembrance ceremony with military color guard, 21-gun salute, and personal stories from local veterans sharing their experiences.
- Chandler Community Breakfast for Veterans - Chandler Community Center - November 11, 7:00 AM Complimentary breakfast honoring veterans and active military with community leaders. Registration required.
- Scottsdale Salute to Service 5K Run - Scottsdale Civic Center - November 9, 8:00 AM Family-friendly run/walk benefiting veteran organizations. Medals for participants, live entertainment, and vendor booths.
That clarity came when I reconnected with a friend who'd just returned from Naval Boot Camp. His stories about discipline and finding meaning through service resonated deeply. I visited recruiters from every branch, but the Marine Corps struck a chord. They set a higher bar, and I realized that was the challenge I needed.
Leaving for Boot Camp was one of the most intimidating days of my life. I thought I understood independence when I left for college, but this was entirely different. It opened my eyes to just how much more I was capable of.
Those early months weren't just about drills or rifles. They were about reshaping how I saw myself. I began to understand integrity—not as an idea, but as a way of living. I learned what it meant to commit fully, even when things were difficult.
The guys I trained with quickly became more than fellow recruits. We were from different backgrounds with different reasons for joining, but shared challenges bonded us in ways that are hard to describe. Whether we were cleaning rifles late into the night or pushing through another exhausting day, we leaned on each other.
The discipline, integrity, and resilience I learned as a Marine still guide me today as a local real estate agent here in Gilbert. They remind me to serve my clients with honesty and preparedness, to approach every challenge with commitment. This Veteran's Day, I want to thank those who've worn the uniform, and also the doctors, firefighters, nurses, teachers, and others in our community who dedicate themselves to something bigger. They carry forward the spirit of service that binds us all.
Meet Jeremy Fierstein, a proud Gilbert "close to" native who's watched the Southeast Valley transform from tranquil dairy farms to thriving metropolis over more years than he cares to remember. This former Marine brings military dedication and persistence to every transaction. After polishing corporate leadership skills, Jeremy entered real estate combining imagination with service, earning Million Dollar Producer honors and consistent Top 2% Realtor® recognition.