Salute to Service honors Xavian Banks

(WJBF) – It’s that time again where we introduce you to our Salute to Service honoree. Each month we spotlight one of our men and women in uniform who continues to make a difference in their community.

We had the honor of speaking with Xavian Banks. He’s a young guy, with a big heart, who cares about his community. It’s very clear why he’s this months Salute to Service honoree

People in Lincolnton call Xavian Banks a pillar of the community and he’s only 26-years-old. Serving his country was his destiny.

“For me it was all about serving the people next to me. I know that there was a legacy that was left by my great grandfather and then I was the next generation to come in and say this could be a great opportunity for me, and that’s why I decided to do it.”

While serving he received several awards, and now he spends his time giving back to his community.

“Well it’s my home. I always knew in my heart before I left that I wanted to come back and give to the people I know. It’s one thing to help people that you do not know but it’s different being a testament to your community. I’m embedded here, I have roots here, and I love the people here as well. One of the things that I’ve heard throughout the tenure in my life is one of the hardest places to succeed is where you’re from and if I can succeed in a state that’s 4,500 miles away, then I think the challenge of being home I can help the residents as well.”

Banks does it all.

“If we had time I’d sit down and tell you about all the different committees that I’m a part of. I am the chair person for the Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce. So I try to help all of the businesses that come in and help promote small businesses and the tourism here in this area. I’m also the commander for the American Legion Post 597.”

Even with all that he does, he remains humble.

“I often get you did this or you did that and I do so much that I forget some of the things that I did and then I go back and look and say wow, because if I drop dead right now in front of this camera I would want that I gave everything that I had to give to this community.”

Banks thinks receiving the Salute to Service award is a great opportunity.

“I do not take this lightly at all, I really do appreciate it. I’m glad, because with you highlighting me it gives me the opportunity highlight all the great people I’ve had the opportunity to encounter and all the people who made me who I am today.”

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