Veterans Day Spotlight: Pierre Malterre-West

In celebration of Veterans Day, we invited members of the Douglas Elliman community who have served in the armed forces to reflect on how their service experiences have shaped their lives and careers in the real estate business.

Pierre Malterre-West, Agent, New York City

Please briefly describe your military service.

I served in the French military from June 1993 until October 1994. I was stationed in Germany as the last contingent of mandatory service. We were still there under the post-World War II agreements and were creating the French-German Army Corps. I worked with the commendement of the Material Branch. As a German speaker, I also did some work with local suppliers.

In what ways, if any, has your service experience shaped the way you approach your life and career in real estate?

My military service taught me that society is made of a multitude of personalities, cultures, and background, and that what you see isn't always what you get. Wearing a uniform removes the biases we all have—we all look the same in our khakis.

I was asked to teach some to read and write and fill out basic administrative forms. It made me realize how my education was a privilege to nurture and further every day. It also taught me patience and listening skills (to a certain degree). This translates every day in my real estate career, as I am better at listening to and evaluating other people's needs.

What would you like your colleagues to know or understand about your service experience and what it means to you?

It was an invaluable experience in terms of selfless giving and how to manage relationships with someone who is not from the same location or background or culture that I am. It made me more tolerant and open-minded.