Aubree and Garrett McGinness

Aubree and Garrett McGinness are growing up with the same values of hard work, dedication, and resilience that have long been the hallmark of their family. Their father, Chris McGinness, a former Marine, has instilled in them a deep respect for service and a tireless work ethic that they carry into every aspect of their lives.

From a young age, Aubree and Garrett have been taught the importance of perseverance. Their father’s career as a Marine has been a guiding force, shaping their approach to challenges both inside and outside the classroom. “Our dad works hard for us,” Garrett says with pride. “Even when he’s home after a long week of work, he’s still out there, putting up fences and getting things done.”

Aubree, who is involved in dance, tumbling, cheerleading, and horseback riding, shares her brother’s admiration for their father. “He never stops,” she adds. “Even when he’s tired, he pushes through, and that’s taught us to do the same.” The siblings have learned from an early age that hard work is not just about completing tasks but about the pride that comes with giving your best effort in everything you do.

Their father’s military background has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping their disciplined approach to life. The values of the Marines—honor, courage, and commitment—are woven into the fabric of their family dynamic. “We’ve learned to be tough,” Aubree says, recounting a recent injury she sustained without shedding a tear. It’s this toughness that both believe will serve them well in the future.

Garrett, who has been active in track and soccer since he was four or five, attributes his speed and agility to the discipline instilled by his father. “You have to be consistent,” he says. “You can’t just do it and then quit for a day or three. It’s about pushing through, no matter what.”

While Garrett dreams of becoming a commercial airline pilot, drawn to the complexity and challenge of flying, Aubree is torn between two nearly polar passions—nursing or becoming a jockey. “I either want to be a nurse or a jockey,” she says with determination. Her love for horses was solidified after a visit to Churchill Downs, where she got a firsthand look at the world of professional horse racing.

Their aspirations, while different, are rooted in the same values of service and dedication that have been passed down from their father. Whether it’s through nursing or aviation, both Aubree and Garrett are determined to make a positive impact in the world, much like their father has done through his military service.

The McGinness family is tightly knit, with both siblings expressing a deep respect and love for their parents. Their mother, Janae, works as a cook in the Vandalia Schools, and her hard work is another example for Aubree and Garrett to follow. “My mom works hard, too,” Aubree says, noting how her mother not only manages the household but also handles the billing for their father’s transportation business.

The siblings share a unique bond with their father, Chris, who, despite his demanding job, always finds time to impart life lessons to his children. “He’s shown us that you can’t be afraid of hard work,” Aubree reflects. “He’s always working, always moving, and that’s taught us that there’s no room for laziness.”

As Aubree and Garrett prepare to take the next steps in their lives, they carry with them the lessons of resilience and hard work that their father has modeled. For the McGinness family, service is not just a career choice; it’s a way of life. And as they look to the future, both siblings are determined to honor their father’s legacy by continuing to work hard and give back to their community.

In Vandalia, the McGinness family stands as a testament to the enduring values of service, discipline, and dedication. As Aubree and Garrett pursue their dreams, they do so with the knowledge that they are not just representing themselves, but the values of their family and their community. And in this, they are truly carrying their father’s torch forward.