‘Rock’ solid

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Army veteran H.J. ‘Rock’ Effron fights for camaraderie at KeyBank, within community

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H. J. "Rock" Effron in his office at Key Bank, Overlook , surrounded by children's art and personal photos.

Do an online search for the word “patriot” and the definition provided will be “a person who loves,supports and defends his or her nation and its interests with devotion; one who thinks not of himself but of his people, and is willing to put him or herself on the line for those ideals and to better society.”

Ask the friends and clients of KeyBank’s Overlook office relationship manager to point out a patriot, and they’ll most likely point right to H.J. “Rock” Effron.

In his position as relationship manager there – and as a lifetime member of the Carmel American Legion –Effron has made many fast friends and done much to help the Carmel community. A peek inside his cubicle reveals his dedication to the younger customers who enter the branch, as the walls are lined with coloring-book art, autographed and dedicated to a man who took the time to give some financial advice to pint-sized investors.

“I love doing this,” shared the 60-something-year-old Effron, who helps open new accounts and works with businesses in procuring loans and lines of credit. “I deal with a myriad of people all the time, from all walks of life, and it’s great. I still have the first drawing I received and photos from that family during the years. I like marketing to the young kids. Every one of them gets a star.”

One of Effron’s adult customers thinks Effron is a star.

“I am fortunate to be among those who are greeted by Overlook KeyBank’s Mr. Customer Service – ‘Rock’ Effron, stated Dr. Jan Battenberg. “For five years, I have continued to drive a little farther from home than need be to do my banking with ‘Rock’ and the Overlook competent and friendly staff.

“Personally, I am glad I am among the ever-so-many who call ‘Rock’ a friend. For me, he truly represents the patriotism our nation needs from its citizens to be healthy. Because of his interest in his nation, community and citizens, he is devoted to sharing his leadership and time providing for others of all ages through charity events, and especially those that include veterans.”

Himself an Army veteran, Effron is “heavily involved” in the Carmel American Legion Post 155, where he fittingly serves as Finance Officer –raising monies through events such as golf outings and Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments – all to benefit the Lafayette Soldiers and Sailors Home, scholarships for children of deployed servicemen and women, homeless veterans and children in need during Christmas.

Effron, married 22 years to wife Carole, has also served in his homeowner’s association, the Chamber of Commerce and as a Career Day mentor to high school students.

“My biggest push right now is to get the younger vets to join the Legion, to let us help them. A lot of us are disabled vets and have helpful information for those coming home now,” said Effron of another effort dear to his heart. “We invite any and all vets to come see us. We can offer a lot of support, especially in acclamation and benefits. We take care of those who took care of us.”

Effron, who loves riding his motorcycle almost as much helping others, has a soft spot for the underdog that drives most of his community efforts.

“I believe in fighting for the rights of others,” shared Effron. “I hate to see people being taken advantage of. I can’t put up with that and cannot stand people being used. I get up every day and try to help one more person. If I do that every day, I’m doing well.”

“‘Rock’ represents what it means to hold the title of a true patriot during war away from our shores and at home within his community. His service for his nation has never stopped. His enthusiasm for charitable causes draws people to eagerly inquire about fundraising events. They find themselves wanting to join his passion for missions that help make life a little better for others.”

“Family, God, nation. That’s all there is,” said Effron. “It doesn’t get any better than that.”

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‘Rock’ Effron’s Military Record

-Enlisted June 1966.
-Basic Training Fort Knox,Ky.
-AIT Fort Benjamin Harrison, Ind.
-First duty station was Chicago, in the Defense Tactical Operations Center serving the Commanding General of Fifth Army.
-First overseas assignment was Germany, traveled extensively with JAG.
-Vietnam 1968 and 1969 two tours.
-Attained rank of Sgt. E-5.
-Honorable Discharge November 1972.
-Awards: Bronze Star, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Ribbon, Army Commendation Medal, CIB, Jump Wings, Combat Qualified.

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Carmel American Legion Post 155

www.americanlegionpost155.org

852 W. Main St., Carmel

846-0001, 846-7899 (fax)

Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Sunday noon to 6 p.m.

Texas Hold ‘em every Saturday starting at 3 p.m. – open to the public

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