Lessons of Duty, Discipline, and Service: Never Will I Falter

Ministry and Reflection on Ash Wednesday

On Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026, I had the privilege of ministering to over 50 senior citizens at two residence homes, administering the Holy Eucharist and placing ashes on each forehead. 

Saying, “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” I reflected on the fragility of life, the responsibility of service, and the quiet dignity of those who have lived long and full lives.

Many of the seniors I serve are in wheelchairs. Some I have known for years; some were meeting me for the first time. Each one reminded me that ministry and leadership require presence, patience, and humility — qualities that parallel my work in law enforcement, schools, and public safety.

One encounter that stood out was with Claire, whose father, NYPD Detective Carberry, tragically died by suicide decades ago. 

I wrote an article honoring him last year, and seeing Claire’s joy and gratitude reminded me why remembering those who served, and protecting those who are at risk today, is so essential. Moments like this — human, grounded, and profound — are a living testament to the work we do to uphold ethical leadership and resilience in our communities.

Reflections on Fasting: Lessons from Pope Francis

The reflections I shared with all the seniors at both residence homes were inspired by Pope Francis’ words on fasting a few years ago. He reminds us that fasting is not only about food, but about emptying ourselves of what divides us from others and from God. During Lent, he encourages us to fast from:

• Anger — letting go of resentment and opening our hearts to peace.

• Grudges — releasing the weight of past hurts and extending forgiveness.

• Impatience — cultivating patience with others and with our own limitations.

• Self‑absorption — turning our focus outward in service and compassion.

Fasting in this sense becomes a path to mercy, reconciliation, and greater unity with Christ, guiding both our hearts and our actions in service to others.

Lessons of Duty, Discipline, and Service

These reflections also inspired my latest article for Law Officer: Never Will I Falter: Ethical Lessons from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for America’s Police.

The piece explores lessons of discipline, perseverance, and quiet honor learned from the Sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier — lessons that have shaped my approach to leadership and service throughout my career.

Standing at the intersection of faith, service, and professional responsibility, I am reminded that leadership is not measured by accolades, but by fidelity to duty, integrity, and care for those entrusted to us. On Ash Wednesday, reflecting on mortality, sacrifice, and the moral courage of those who came before us, I was struck by the continuity of this calling — whether ministering to seniors, mentoring colleagues, or writing about ethical leadership.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Sentinels, and the lessons they embody have been a guiding light throughout my career. My newsletter, The Sentinel, has carried these principles to readers for more than 25 years, sharing reflections on discipline, honor, and responsibility that are as relevant today as they were when I first stood at the Tomb as a child in 1957.

Sacred duty, quiet honor, and moral courage are not abstract ideals. They are lived in the small moments: in ministry, in mentorship, and in service to others. On Ash Wednesday, I was reminded again of what it means to serve faithfully, honor those who came before us, and nurture the communities and lives entrusted to our care.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vincent J. Bove is an accomplished leader, educator, and public speaker specializing in ethical leadership, resiliency, and mental health awareness for law enforcement. 

Bove has worked extensively with the NYPD and other first responder organizations nationwide, delivering keynotes, workshops, and training programs that focus on ethical leadership, suicide prevention, morale-building, and emotional fortitude. 

A published author with 330 articles, and four books, Bove is an advocate for integrity and service. 

He combines practical experience with scholarly insight to inspire, motivate, and encourage leaders across communities.

Photos 

1. Senior Residences prior to Eucharistic service and administering of ashes on Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026. (RALLC) 

2. Changing of the Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, May 18, 2019 – Photo by Vincent J. Bove for RALLC “The Sentinel at Arlington embodies discipline, dedication, and ethical leadership — principles that have guided my work in law enforcement, schools, and public safety for decades.”