From the Air Force to Christopher Street Financial: A Journey of Service

In Honor of Veterans Day

This month, we pause to recognize those who have served our country. Our own Rick de Beauclair, Director of Client Services, reflects on his 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force and how it shaped his work and leadership at Christopher Street Financial.

From the Air Force to Christopher Street Financial: A Journey of Service and Purpose

"Service, in all its forms, is the most rewarding mission of all.”

Twenty-five years ago, I retired from the United States Air Force after a twenty-year career that took me from California to Florida, Alaska, Belgium, Germany, and finally, the Pentagon. I worked in healthcare administration, and those two decades shaped not only my work ethic but also my approach to leadership, service, and teamwork.

Looking back, I can honestly say I loved my time in the Air Force. The constant movement, the diversity of people and cultures, and the daily sense of mission gave my life structure and meaning. I learned how to adapt quickly, lead calmly under pressure, and never lose sight of the people at the heart of every operation. Those lessons have stayed with me every day since.

When I began my second career at Christopher Street Financial, I quickly realized how much my military experience had prepared me for this next chapter. The Air Force taught me the importance of systems, precision, and accountability, which are skills that translate perfectly into the world of client service and financial operations. It also taught me that serving others is more than a job, it’s a calling.

As Director of Client Services, I see parallels between my two careers every day. Whether managing a complex client situation or guiding a team through a new process, the goal remains the same: take care of people, operate with integrity, and never stop improving.

The Air Force gave me the foundation. Christopher Street Financial gave me the opportunity to build on it. Together, they’ve shaped a career I’m deeply proud of, and one that reminds me daily that service, in all its forms, is the most rewarding mission of all.

As we celebrate Veterans Day, let us take a moment to thank and honor all who have served, past and present, for their dedication and sacrifice to our country.