Community Inspired by Leadership and Patriotism at BankSouth’s Event Featuring Vietnam War Veteran Lee Ellis

GREENSBORO, GA – On Thursday, July 17, more than 130 community members gathered at Lake Oconee Church for a heartfelt event hosted by BankSouth featuring Vietnam War veteran, former POW, and leadership expert Lee Ellis. The event, titled “Leadership Lessons from the Hanoi Hilton,” delivered an unforgettable message of courage, character, and resilience.

Through powerful storytelling and personal reflection, Ellis shared with the audience some insights drawn from his five and a half years as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam. Attendees—ranging from business leaders and veterans to young adults and local residents—were moved by his account of surviving captivity, enduring torture, and the enduring bonds formed among his fellow POWs.

The Q&A session that followed provided a unique opportunity for attendees to reflect and share personal stories of connection to the Vietnam War era. Several touching testimonies from the audience highlighted the emotional and historical impact of Ellis’s message.

Following the program, a reception offered guests a chance to speak directly with Ellis, have books signed, and connect further with others in attendance. Many lingered in conversation, expressing their appreciation for the event’s message.

“This was our first time doing an event like this at a completely new location and everyone made it appear as though we did this all the time,” said Rebecca Matthews, Chief Administrative Officer with BankSouth. “I think the event was very impactful for the attendees. Any time you elicit an emotional response from the audience, you know you touched a chord. We are thankful for the BankSouth volunteers that helped make this happen and of course, Lake Oconee Church, for their hospitality in hosting the event.”

For more on Lee Ellis and his leadership resources, visit www.leadingwithhonor.com. To learn more about BankSouth, visit www.banksouth.com.

About BankSouth

Today, BankSouth is a leading community bank headquartered at Lake Oconee in Greensboro, Georgia, and is recognized as a top-performing bank nationwide. With over $1 billion in assets, BankSouth serves customers with branches in Atlanta, Greensboro, Savannah, Watkinsville, and beyond with a full suite of consumer, commercial and digital banking and lending products. Currently, BankSouth Mortgage originates over $1.0 billion in home loans with more than 50 experienced loan officers across their twelve locations. For BankSouth locations and more information, please visit banksouth.com.