This Veterans Day, GAAR recognizes the service and leadership of 2026 GAAR President Christopher Shain Tanner, REALTOR®, whose more than 20 years in the U.S. Air Force continue to shape his commitment to the real estate industry, his fellow REALTORS®, and the communities he serves.

From loading weapons on F-16 fighter jets to serving as a combat medic and ultimately becoming a First Sergeant, Shain's military career was built on responsibility, precision, and putting others first. Today, those same principles guide his approach to real estate and association leadership.

More Than Two Decades of Service

Shain served in the U.S. Air Force from 2003 to 2023, including a deployment to Balad Air Base in Iraq in 2007. Throughout his military career, he held several roles that helped define his understanding of service and leadership.

His final role as First Sergeant left a particularly lasting impression.

"A First Sergeant does not exist for himself. He exists for his people. Their standards, their welfare, their families. That was my job every single day."

When Shain transitioned into real estate, he discovered that the lessons learned during his military career were just as relevant in his new profession.

"Real estate did not ask me to leave that behind. It asked me to bring it with me."

Military Lessons, Real Estate Leadership

Shain credits his military experience with shaping three principles that continue to influence his work.

• Precision and Accountability: As an F-16 weapons loader, attention to detail was essential. Checklists, verification, and following established procedures were critical responsibilities. Today, he applies that same discipline to real estate transactions, policy development, and representing GAAR members.
• Service Before Self: His experience as a combat medic reinforced the importance of caring for others during challenging circumstances. In real estate, he recognizes that every transaction represents individuals and families navigating significant financial and personal decisions.
• Leadership Through Service: As a First Sergeant, Shain learned that effective leadership is not defined by rank or title, but by supporting others, maintaining standards, and preparing future leaders for success.

"Leadership is not a title. It is showing up for people, holding a standard with kindness, and leaving an organization stronger than you found it while guiding and supporting new leaders and their leadership journey."

Continuing the Mission

Throughout his tenure as 2026 GAAR President, Shain has worked to strengthen the Association and support its members. His commitment to service extends to his leadership as Chair of the GAAR Government Affairs Committee, his role as an NAR Director, and his upcoming service as NMAR Central District Vice President.

For Shain, these responsibilities are an extension of the commitment he made during his military career.

He also brings a personal understanding of the experiences and sacrifices of military families to his real estate business. Having experienced deployments, long separations from loved ones, and the challenges of military life, he understands the importance of stability, community, and having a place to call home.

Honoring Service Beyond the Uniform

Veterans Day is an opportunity to recognize those who have served our country and the lasting contributions they make to our communities.

For Shain, military service did not end with retirement. Its lessons continue to guide how he approaches his profession, represents his peers, and supports the next generation of leaders.

"My commitment is the same one I made in uniform. I will serve with honor. I will lead with excellence. And I will always put the people I represent ahead of myself."

This Veterans Day, GAAR thanks Shain and all veterans within our REALTOR® and Affiliate community for their military service, their sacrifices, and the leadership they continue to provide. Their commitment to serving others strengthens our Association, our industry, and the communities we call home.

Advancing, Belonging, Community & Diversity Committee
presents this cultural heritage celebration blog