#OperationSong Gloria Savage

This #OperationSong spotlight is on “Peacemaker” by Veteran Gloria Savage, who served in the United States Air Force for 20 years.

This #OperationSong spotlight is on “Peacemaker,” by Gloria Savage, who served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years.

In 2019, Savage was invited to participate in an Operation Song Veteran’s event in Nashville, Tennessee. She was very excited to attend because she loves music; she had to pinch herself to prove she was not dreaming. Savage recounted her memorable experience participating in a Nashville-style “guitar pull,” in which professional songwriters gathered together, performed their hit songs and explained their songwriting journeys.

The Operation Song event helped Savage to look back fondly on her experiences with family, friends and the military, and she was inspired to write a song reflecting on her mother’s teachings to be a peacemaker. Savage explained that “Peacemaker” honors her mother, who was always a source of encouragement and support, and the life lessons Savage learned from her.

After the event, Savage worked with the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), which partnered with the Operation Song Veterans Retreat. She wrote “Peacemaker” with Marc Beeson and Andy Albert, both of whom are songwriters at Broadcast Music, Inc., in half a day. Even though the process was quick, she made memories to last a lifetime.

“Peacemaker” was written for people from all walks of life. With its instrumental cords, moving words and soulful message, the song reminds listeners that throughout any pain and darkness they may face, they can always find the strength within themselves to begin anew. The line “love the sinner but hate the sin” is a saying her mother taught her; Savage believes that this means we should seek to not judge others but to treat everyone with kindness and respect. Just as her mother taught her to “love your enemy” and “fight to be a peacemaker,” Savage wants to inspire her listeners to make peace not only with others, but also with themselves.

Through “Peacemaker,” Savage has brought her mother’s words to life. She encourages her listeners to forgive, continue moving forward and carry this message of peace with them wherever they may go.

On Aug. 17, 2019, Savage recorded “Peacemaker” at Benchmark Sound Recording Studio. As she explained, recording with a full band accompaniment brought her song to life before her eyes. Later that day, she performed “Peacemaker” at the Country Music Association in front of a live audience for the first time. She felt a sense of connection to her fellow Veterans and left the event with more friends, knowledge and valued memories.

Savage’s Operation Song experience reminded her of her happy memories of serving and treasured time spent with friends and family. She also gained insight into the experiences of other Veterans, musicians and writers. She is grateful to have had such a wonderful experience and is especially thankful to Bob Regan, who helps organize Operation Song retreats and events.

Currently, Savage writes for a local magazine in Virginia. She is also active in her community and has participated in the Talent Program at the VA in Hampton, Virginia. At Veteran events in her community, she partakes in golf, art exhibitions, concerts and poetry readings that promote and recognize Veterans in her community. She hopes to one day work in the film industry.

We honor her service.

Writer: Adrienne Brookstein

Editor: Christopher Wilson

Fact Checker: Monique Quihuis

Graphic Designer: Katie Rahill