“True resilience isn’t just about weathering storms — it’s about inspiring others to sail toward their own horizons. Together, we build more than success; we build purpose.” — Henry Russell
Allow me to share a few thoughts from my heart, inspired by Richard Du’s incredible journey and the spirit I’ve always tried to carry with me, from my time in the Navy to leading SANTOS Holdings. My name is Henry Russell, and those years navigating the USS Underwood and later leading Riverine Squadron Three, Detachment 1, weren’t just about strategy and orders. They forged in me an unshakeable belief in resilience, the power of a united team, and a commitment that doesn’t waver. These aren’t just military values; they’re the bedrock of any meaningful endeavor, including the entrepreneurial world Richard has so bravely navigated. That’s why I strongly encouraged him to share his story in “All of a Sudden: The Life of an Entrepreneur.”
I spent six years on active duty, and three more years in the reserves in the military as a Naval Officer after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2003. During my time in the service I conducted four overseas deployments, including multiple deployments to Iraq, where I oversaw and completed over 100 combat missions in Western Iraq, and over 100 boat interdictions in Southern Iraq and the Northern Tip of the Persian Gulf. I found my true love for America, and the brotherhood that I had established with the Sailors and Marines whom I served is what propelled me through long and difficult deployments. What I discovered about myself, and what I saw in some many other great people who I was able to serve with, was a common thread we had in the military was to help and serve others. Service was such a big part of what we did day in and day out, and we celebrated when others succeeded, because it mattered and we cared. My passion for serving others has continued throughout my life as I left the military. As I’ve transitioned from the structured world of the military to the dynamic landscape of business, I’ve found myself reflecting on something deeper. It feels like the very spirit that built this nation, that fighting drive, and that powerful sense of who we are as Americans, are facing headwinds. President Kennedy’s powerful call to action, “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country,” resonated so deeply because it spoke to a collective identity, a shared responsibility. Somewhere along the way, I worry that this has subtly shifted for some, becoming more about “What can I do for myself?”While personal responsibility is vital, the emphasis on “country” holds a powerful sense of unity and shared purpose that I believe is essential to rediscover. Richard’s story, in its essence, embodies that spirit of perseverance and the determination to contribute something meaningful- qualities that are timeless and deeply American.
Richard’s path as an entrepreneur is a testament to the importance of adaptability and sheer grit. He has faced the inevitable storms and has constantly had to chart new courses. By opening up about his experiences, the challenges he has overcome, and the triumphs he has celebrated, he offers something truly valuable: a real-world example of resilience in action. It’s not a polished success story devoid of struggle; it’s a raw and honest account of the entrepreneurial journey, the kind that can inspire someone facing their own uncertainties. He empowers others by opening up about his struggles alongside his triumphs, demonstrating that resilience is key to building something meaningful.
What Richard has accomplished in documenting his personal journey is an act of profound generosity and tenacity. By sharing the inner workings of his entrepreneurial mind the calculated risks, the problem-solving strategies, and the unwavering vision that has guided him- he’s creating a roadmap for others. This isn’t just about recounting events; it’s about offering invaluable insights into the challenges and immense rewards of building something from the ground up. As we all strive to improve our own lives and contribute to the world, stories like Richard’s become vital fuel, reminding us that the American Dream isn’t just about individual success, but about empowering ourselves in a way that inspires others to pursue their own passions and make their unique contributions.
At SANTOS Holdings, we’ve intentionally fostered an environment where growth and empowerment aren’t just buzzwords; they guide our operations. I believe Richard’s book will extend that philosophy, reaching beyond our company walls to encourage readers to take those first, sometimes daunting, steps toward their own aspirations. This isn’t merely a look back at his life; it’s a practical guide showing that the path to success, while rarely easy, is absolutely attainable.
I feel a deep sense of purpose in Richard sharing his story. It underscores the importance of continuous self-improvement and personal growth for individual gain and as the foundationfor a stronger community. Shared learning and genuine connection are powerful forces in a world that can sometimes feel fractured. Richard’s journey has the potential to ignite a fire in the next generation, encouraging them to strive for excellence and understand that their individual growth contributes to the collective good. It’s about creating a ripple effect, where our own development sets a powerful example of ambition, resilience, and mutual support for those who follow. I spent ten years of my life coaching high school football, half of that at the most prestigious school in Baltimore, MD., The Gilman School, and the other half in one of the poorest neighborhoods in America, at a tiny Catholic School that provided hope to the community, St. Frances Academy. Polar Opposites in terms of the type of students who would attend each school, from the richest kids in the area who had private education their entire lives to kids who would wonder where their next meal would come from when they returned home after the school day. Richard’s story is the story that builds the bridge from one part of town to the other. It’s a story that should be told in both classrooms, and is one that unites the common bond we have as Americans. I would desire to have all my former players read this, as it provides hope to all and compels us to help our fellow man, and to give each of us the motivation to change the world for better.
Ultimately, as Richard’s narrative unfolds, I see it as more than just one man’s story. It’s a thread in the larger tapestry of our national identity, a reminder that each of us has a unique contribution to make. We can reignite that powerful sense of purpose and collective accomplishment by embracing our individual roles and actively engaging with our communities. As Richard puts pen to paper for “All of a Sudden: The Life of an Entrepreneur,” I hope it serves as a beacon for all who dare to dream, a resounding reminder that they are not alone on their journey. Together, we can cultivate a culture that celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and cherishes the profound connections that make us a resilient and innovative society.
Henry Russell —CEO of SANTOS Holdings
All of a Sudden: A Life of an Entrepreneur—based on a true story—will be available for purchase on Sunday, June 1st 2025, on Amazon.com. Our goal is to sell 10 million copies, with your blessings we can achieve our goal.