Larry Shields’ story is one built on service, family, resilience, and a deep love for his country. Born in Spokane, Washington, Larry entered the United States Navy in 1969 and served as a Surgical Technician in San Diego. During the Vietnam era, he cared for countless service members returning home from 1969 to 1976. His time in the Navy shaped his life and helped lead him to a lifelong career in surgical instrumentation.
After leaving the Navy, Larry continued his path in the medical field and joined a surgical instrumentation company in 1981. He worked his way up through the company, and today he is semi-retired and serves as an advisor while his son carries on in his former role. His daughter also works in the family business.
Family is at the center of everything Larry does. He and his wife have been married for more than fifty years and they have raised two children together. His wife recently completed cancer treatment and is now cancer-free, which Larry speaks about with deep gratitude. Outside of work, he has spent more than two decades in Toastmasters, has served as a volunteer director for his local fire department, and stays active in community service.
Winning the $50,000 American Dream Giveaway allowed Larry to fulfill a dream he has held for years. His wife is a passionate quilter, so he is taking her on a bucket list trip to Pennsylvania to visit Amish quilt shops. From there, they will continue on a cross-country journey to visit quilt shops all the way to Washington, D.C. They will visit Gettysburg and rent a car to explore America at their own pace.
Along the way, Larry plans to make a special stop. He hopes to visit Allegiance Flag Supply during their road trip. He shared that he felt very patriotic when he first purchased an Allegiance product, and he is excited about the chance to see where the products he loves are made.
Larry represents the spirit of the American Dream Giveaway. He credits the military for helping him find his purpose. He has spent his life serving others in uniform, in the operating room, in his community, and through his family. Today, he gets to use his prize to give something meaningful back to the woman who has stood beside him for more than five decades.
A truly deserving winner.