Comments on the Military and Business Ownership

“Professionalism and teamwork were skills I honed in the USAF.”

Gregory Pierce - ENGISYSTEMS Inc.

“USAF taught me to manage resources and provided opportunities to lead people with a common goal.”

Lonnie Pace - Family Laundry

“It has helped me keep deadlines, be well organized.”

Dawn White - White's Cleanit

“The military helped me focus on leadership skills, being goal-oriented and a having high level professionalism.”

Richard Fendley - Interior Fusion, LLC

“It taught me honor, integrity, hard work, perseverance, adaptability, how to improvise, overcome and complete on each mission.”

Shelly Bauer - Universal Investigations, LLC

“The experience acquired during my 23 years of military service and our unique approach to identify and complete our projects, places us at a different level than that of our competitors. Indirectly we are still serving our nation and those that are currently serving and we are extremely proud for it!”

Alfredo Quiros - Telum Protection Corp

“My experience as an infantry Marine taught me the value of extensive planning, yet gave me the ability to adapt well to ever-changing demands and situations. As a business owner, I'm able to provide faster solutions and service because of my military service experience.”

Klay South - Operation Care Package 24/7

“14 years of service active duty and air national guard. Organizational skills lead to a structured business, learning to manage, lead and follow for a well rounded business plan, that has pointed us in the right direction.”

Chris Barcikowski - Mid Atlantic Commercial and Residential Real Estate Solutions Inc

“We’re trained to do our jobs and react to certain situations just the way civilian employees are. But we also have leeway to use our intelligence and awareness to respond to new situations and come up with new ways of doing things. We work in teams, so as problems come up, we solve them collectively and understanding the company’s mission and looking to my employees for insights are all skills I learned while in service.”

Kelen Prutow - U.S. Integrators

“Gave me the principles and discipline that drives my business.”

Thomas Bednarczyk - SilverLining Partners LLC

“I learned discipline and responsibility.”

Donnie Cross - Just By Nature Candle & Soap Supplies

“Taught me discipline!”

Pete Brush - My Geek For Hire

“Learned discipline, determination and perseverance.”

Hal Decker - Doctor Greens

“The Army Infantry taught me humility, honest, and confidence. How to train and deal with people. Most importantly, your word is your bond.”

Scott Kersjes - Innovative Facilities Solutions, Inc.

“I joined the Navy one year after high school. I served six years in the Navy Nuclear Power program, four years on the USS California (cgn36). After the service, I enrolled at the University of New Mexico and received my Electrical Engineering Degree. I worked for Intel for 12 years and now own and operate my own fitness center. The Navy gave me experience that none of the other things ever could; that is, discipline, honesty and integrity and that anything worth having requires those three.”

Mark Atencio - Anytime Fitness Albuquerque

“The military taught me primarily to listen and learn, understand diversity, and work with everyone. Using my planning skills, multi-tasking experience, and level of understanding of people and industry, I have worked to develop processes and innovative techniques to improve not only a business, but the employees and atmosphere. The Military taught me that - everyone has a great idea - it just takes the right time and the right person to hear it and how to focus on it!”

Ron Craw - Improvement Innovations LLC

“The time spent in the Army demanded that I challenge myself to accomplish more than just average. Running the extra mile, and always doing what it takes to get the job done are just a couple of things that military experience gave me.”

Michael Bell - 7 Star Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling

“I am better prepared to take leadership positions and handle adverse conditions properly.”

Kim Carevic - Kim's Trucking Co. Inc.

“As a Marine Corps Sniper in Vietnam, it taught me the importance of being careful and paying close attention to small details.”

Dan Bowers - Holmes Inspection Company

“Military training prepared me to follow rules and steps in order to achieve goals. It taught me teamwork and how to be a good leader. There are some of the things I was able to use in order to become a business owner. The Army core values are something I have used as a way of life both in the military and in the business world, and it has been essential to our growth.”

Fernando Martinez - Ostar Motorsports

“The military taught me discipline, dedication and commitment - the will and desire to carry a mission through! All of these traits are required to persevere in business today!”

Amy Contino - Das KaffeeHaüs von Frau Burkhart

“Persistence and Organization!”

James Terhune - T&T Materials

“I learned how to discipline myself to run a lean business and to provide leadership to my employees!”

Mark White - Wake County Cleaning Company

“My service in the military taught me the core principles I needed in my industry, as well as how to pay attention to detail, take pride in my work, and navigate a global system. I am proud to be a Veteran and military wife offering a business opportunity to others.”

Corina DuBois - Celebrate Mama! LLC

“To deliver services in a promised time and respect customers.”

Thomas Covington - A-1 Copy Systems, LLC

“The military taught me structure, discipline, work ethic and teamwork. It helped show me that hard work can pay off. That by not quitting you can reach the goals that you set.”

Steven Matthews - RisingStar Entertainment

“My graduation from the US Military Academy & 20 yrs of active duty have permitted me to provide timely and compelling community service in Albuquerque, along with supporting my spouse's Holistic Wellness business (Cloud Nine Therapeutics).”

Patrick O'Connell - Cloud Nine Therapeutics

“Organizational and leadership skills.”

James Abbott - Satcom Scientific, Inc.

“Motivation, Discipline, and Foresight!”

John Paff - EAR Alaska

“By supplying me with the tools to become a responsible, organized and motivated adult.”

Willie Vega Jr. - FITNESS 4 LIFE Personal Training

“Marine Corps taught me discipline and integrity.”

Steven Fikes - SFX Electric

“On active and reserve duty I obtained the position of Sr. Drill which allowed me Leadership and Management opportunities along with discipline and respect of others. This is the best Country in the world as I have been to several other countries during my 27 years in the Military. I believe our elders and military veterans should have the opportunity to have the best value of the services offered them. I have continually maintained a high level of schooling, education and knowledge in my field.”

Samuel Pozdol - Peete's Electric Company

“Military service teaches you to never give up.”

Rick Phillips - Dry Ridge Plumbing

“It's helped me form objectives, and become better at forming strategies to reach those objectives. It's also helped me work as a team, develop SOP's in my business, and focus on the goals I have set.”

EJ Smith - Smith Business Development Solutions

“The military prepared me to be a better business owner, by challenging my mind and body through seemingly impossible tasks. After accomplishing these tasks, I realized that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.”

David Zimmerman - Lawn n' Home Doctor

“Aberdeen Proving Ground school for blacksmith and welding.”

Ruperto FUENTES - Universal Refractrs & Boilers

“Being a Marine & D. I. speaks for it's self - There is only one way to do it and "That's The Right Way". ~ They call me {The Box Doctor} and I have 46 years experience Semper Fi”

Roger Maxson - Maxson Container Consultants

“In so many ways. Discipline, integrity, long hours, able to use the skills I learned in the Army to establish policies and procedures for my company.”

Alisa Clark - Glory Professional Cleaning Services

“Personal relations and discipline.”

Henry Canup - Henry Canup's Metal Polishing

“Taught me responsibility and leadership under fire. Company commander with 3rd Marine Division RVN.”

LEO DURANT - LND Construction

“Military service prepared me to be an effective leader in all kinds of situations. It taught me to be a better decision maker and to be fair and equitable in my dealings with others.”

James Boles - BTI

“The Air Force, Airmen, invested time in mentoring me and developing my skills to be able to manage complex tasks and make sure the job gets done!”

Ed Stobierski - G.I. JUNK

“The military taught me responsibility and determination.”

James Jarrett - North American Environmental Services, LLC

“Leadership training and concept of personal Duty and Honor.”

Mark Preson - Operations and Engineering

“Discipline of finances. Only taking opportunities that present winning outcomes. Networking opportunities.”

CHARLIE FRISCH - Z3 Consultants Inc

“As a Master Training Specialist with the USN I gained valuable teaching experience that helped the transition to the private sector.”

H.G. Laragione - Maritime Institute Inc.

“Professionalism, Compassion and Prudence. All traits associated with growing up in a military family and continue today as I say congrats and good luck to a Grandson going the Navy way.”

Rick Pino - Ricon Compliance Inspections

“The Navy prepared me not only when I was active but for my future as a civilian. They taught me to work hard, learn from your mistakes, learn as much as I can, and help others.”

Richard Synek - Feed Our Veterans

“The army gave me the discipline and determination to go beyond boundaries to achieve succeed. The military gave me the opportunity to see the world and the needs of our industry that are global. The demand for quality and longevity in our products and the internal frame work of our company and most of all the pride in providing American made products.”

HE Dan Bunch - Odorite International Inc.

“Taught me organization and preparation.”

William R. Whitteker - Pansermesh Inc.

“It helped me develop a disciplined, organized and communicative work style.”

Karen Auguste - Purple Lynx Inc.

“I learned the basic from the military, respect all people and do my best for the mission at hand... that reflects the way I handle my business.”

DAVID SMITH - S&S Towing

“The US Army gave me the ability to make quick decisions, even though difficult keep on doing the task or duty until operation is complete and done to the best of my ability. Taught me to work as a team member, to encourage others to keep on going!”

Roy Huckaby - Weedseal Northwest Sales and Service

“The military taught me that there is always a way to get something done and I believe I have brought that attitude to my business.”

Matthew Gilmore - Lincoln Process Service

“Taught me how to deal with stress!”

Marty Katz - QBD Consulting, Inc

“Taught discipline, honesty, character, loyalty which we implement in our business everyday. Taught how to honor your country and to be responsible for your own actions. Made us proud to be an American and that to serve in the military is an honor.”

Gilbert Sentell - Sentell Engineering, Inc.

“Positive, can do attitude where failure is not an option as well as leadership qualities which helped motivate and support my employees.”

David Fisher - Military Supply Coins

“The exposure to types of people outside of my chosen circle of friends and how to deal with difficult people are the most important lessons I learned while serving.”

John Hendrickson - Smoke Eaters Supply

“Management skills and the drive to success. Never give up no matter the how small or big the obstacle is in your path.”

Joseph Navarra - National Hospitality Resources

“The Army solidified my foundation of principles, values, and training which provided me with tools to be a leader. These tools gave me the courage to finish my degree and pursue my own path as a business owner.”

Rosario Hurel - Hurel Transcription Translation Professionals

“To be disciplined, focused and detail oriented.”

Jim Sabatello - Inland Flooring Contractors, Inc.

“Discipline, Discipline, Discipline!”

Lindy Scarborough - Magictainment

“The Navy gave me direction and allowed me to see opportunities that I thought were out of reach. It also taught me to be organized.”

Morgan Le Vally - Morgan Marine LLC

“To better understand and appreciate the freedom that we have in the United States Of America. The discipline that the U.S. Army instilled in me was outstanding. Teamwork was the next item that I have been able to use every day in my life.”

Ernie Ratcliffe - Nu Skin Enterprises Rep - Ernie Ratcliffe

“Work ethics, and responsibility.”

Thomas Hughes - DOD Consultants, LLC

“It helped me pay attention to small details and being prompt.”

Frederick Franks - Acme Logistics, Inc

“Taught me discipline and gave me the self esteem needed.”

Dan Engel - Employee Benefit Solutions LLC

“I was able to afford an education with the GI bill. Thank you Uncle Sam.”

Patrick Hamer - HomeSculptor

“The good people that trained me at FT. Polk LA. taught me to never give up, no matter what the odds, keep the pressure up and persevere until the adversary can be conquered.”

Alfred Kamosa, Jr. - Kamosa Realty

“Leadership and program management at the Defense Contract College.”

David Salvadorini - Salvadorini Consulting LLC

“Once I left active duty I as able to secure a civilian position with the US Army Corps of Engineers where I worked for nearly 10 years as an IT Manager developing a broad range of skills including Web Designer, IT Manager and Strategic Planner.”

Russ Cuthrell - Spyder Byte Media, Inc.

“The military taught me determination.”

Vernon Williams - The Williams Company

“Goal setting and personal discipline and the attitude to never give up also with the goal of giving back to my God and country for blessing me.”

thomas nordstrom - Tom Nordstrom Construction

“The military taught me that there is no 'I' in team...no matter how it sounds... it is true. I have learned that I can push myself to things I never thought possible and to treat people the way that I would want to be treated.”

Stephanie Salupo - Combat Cleaning Services, LLC

“Attention to detail. Management skills with employees.”

Ryan Powell - The Cleaning Corps

“It gave me structure, dedication, and made me a man.”

James Carlton - Defense Components of Detroit

“90% of the employees of TCS Consultants are former service men and women or the children of service men and women. The military has instilled a sense of duty, mission accomplishment, and self discipline that we have transferred into our profession.”

Timothy Clegg - TCS Consultants, LLC

“By developing my organizational skills and giving me pride and determination.”

Eric brackman - RFI Consultants

“William Boone, was a Fleet Marine Corpsman in pre-Vietnam era. We are determined to support and encourage our brave heroes and to see that the disgraceful actions to our Vietnam vets doesn't happen to these heroes today. We have compassion and empathy with our deployed military. Our daughter has been to the SandBox 3 times with the Army so we understand the needs of our young people.”

William Boone - TOUCH OF HOME Support 4R Deployed Military, Inc.

“The discipline is a requirement of being self employed.”

John Russell - Eagle Industrial Instrumentation, LLC

“Attention to detail, self discipline, teamwork, and a "never quit" attitude was instilled in us in the USCG. If you apply these principles to everything you do, you will prevail.”

Donald Lynch - LYNCH Janitorial & Cleaning, LLC

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Norbert Rug - Akron Grove Bath Products Inc.

“Taking control, responsibilities and preparing for adversity and having control of oneself when challenged.”

Ernest Smith - Health Force Drug Test

“Almost 10 years in the USAF taught me many things including trustworthiness, timeliness, honesty, sense of pride, and ethical behavior.”

Michael White - Heritage Heating & Air LLC

“Since I've served in both the Army and Marine Corps, I have made the lessons learned, standard protocol. Just as I had to do to learn how to walk again after getting hit with an I.E.D. while providing convoy security in Iraq.”

Kris Rodriguez - The Rodriguez Insurance Agency

“One word: Discipline!”

Mike Gillingham - Eastern Iowa Inspection Services LLC

“Dedication, discipline, versatility and communication is the major component in a business. The military developed these skills within myself.”

Tyrone scott - Serendipitys The Biggest Little Shop

“The submarine service taught me discipline and the need to work in cooperation with others.”

Michael Addison - Siella Imaging LLC

“The organizational skills given to me by the US Navy have helped us to make better informed business decisions.”

Gary Branch - Cross Chart Records

“Training, tenacity and the willingness to finish a job.”

Michael Brown - Desert Mountain Consulting Corp

“The key word in any business is integrity.”

Gerard Sunnen - Ozonics International, LLC

“The Texas Air National Guard instilled in me (at least) three traits that are highly desirable in business owners/entrepreneurs... discipline, perseverance and tenacity. Without these traits I would never have been able to drive my business to where it is now.”

Chris Nicolaou - Texas DNS, Inc.

“The military helped by providing me with the determination to keep striving for success in everything that I do!”

Edward McCullough Sr. - The Bait Barn

“Being a leader of Marines prepared me to take the reigns of my company and relentley give everything that I possibly can to ensure that our customer base comes first and receives nothing but the highest quality of service.”

Brett Granger - Global Garage Flooring and Design of Houston, LLC.

“The military gave me a sense of accomplishment and the will and desire to achieve any goal set in front of me. With the motivation given to me by the many people in the military pushing me only made me stronger as a person.”

Francis Kalokitis - Kal Kom LLC

“Being a marine has developed discipline and organization to our business. We consider it an honor to do business with other veterans.”

Harold O'Callaghan - Waco Formworks LLC

“The courtroom is a tough place to succeed, but not near as tough as the training and experiences I encountered in the Marine Corps as an enlisted infantryman.”

Russell Little - The Law Offices of Russell Little, LLC

“Honor, respect, discipline!”

stephon mudd - Services Rendered VIP Photography

“Trust, leadership, independent, and the ability to talk and work with others to accomplish goals.”

Jeffrey Lakatos - Hartland Electric LLC

“The military provided a place to mature and see the world without the close protection of my family. Decisions made by myself were totally mine and had its repercussions either positive or negative. This was the place where you learn to be an adult.”

James E. Frederick - TimeLine Management Group, LLC

“I was a Army Corp of Engineer officer leading different platoons through multiple types of missions which really helped me be adaptable to change.”

James Farrell - The Lawson Flag Supply Co.

“Attention to detail and diligence in the way I perform my duties have proved beneficial in the corporate world.”

Christian Tolen - AmeriVet Logistics, Inc.

“I entered the Army at seventeen years old, as a high school drop out. The Army taught me the skills that have enabled me to thrive in any situation that I have found myself in. The training and education I was provided have made the man I am today.”

Scott Jones - Native Sons Services, LLC

“Personnel Management. Leadership. Strong work ethic for long hours.”

Mark Rothrock - Rocky's Bar

“The leadership training I received in the US Army prepared me to take on many challenges in life as well as taught me the skills I needed to venture out and start my own business.”

Leopold Lacrimosa - SonoranDesertKnives

“Taught me a "never quit" philosophy!”

F Gregg Meagher - Life Regeneration Systems Corporation LLC

“Military service has given me the tools necessary to start, run, and maintain my business. Dedication and attention to details are my watch words. These are just a sample of the many lessons learned and experience gained from my military service.”

Charles Brown - Exodus International

“My experiences in the Air Force as a Security Specialist taught me Leadership Skills, Attention to Detail and Pride in Accomplishing Tasks to a Degree of Perfection not found amongst many.”

Larry Ebeling - Spectrum A/V Group

“My military service prepared me for anything and everything I have faced since I got out. My strong leadership and discipline allows me to excel in all areas of my business. My service experience is the bedrock of my business.”

John Logan - Adventure Alliance

“Progressing through the ranks to senior NCO you get to see in many ways different needs of people and what makes them motivated. The organizational skills and personal and material managerial skills are necessary whether you are running a business.”

Paul Marsters - Survival and Rescue Training and Consulting

“My service in the military has allowed me to travel the world and expand my herpetology experiences far more than I ever expected. The Army Values are what I bring to work every day in order to complete the task at hand; Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.”

Luis Fraser - Rattlesnake Removal USA - N California

“Time and safety critical operations demand a higher level of personal accountability that most commercial operations. Military service (twenty-three years of US Navy service) builds-in a level of experience & confidence unmatched by other venues.”

Jim Holcombe - JHolcombe & Associates, Incorporated

“As a Marine, I was taught the values of leadership, discipline and camaraderie. This is still very much evident 35 years later.”

Frank Espinoza - Frank H Contractors

“Being in the US Army and having the privilege of serving overseas has helped me take the challenges of the business world in stride.”

JD Beers - Coupon Raider!

“Introduced me to the disciplines required to get a job done and accomplish important and critical task without excuse or oversight. Also learned supervision, delegation, and leadership principles that have served me every day.”

Michael Thomas - Thomas Lock & Key

“The leadership and discipline from my military service prepared me for managing not only one business but two.”

Dorothy West - AVON - Independent Sales Representative - Dorothy West

“Never give up and absolutely never forget what you're fighting for!”

Thomas Kamm - All Veterans Funeral and Cremation

“Discipline. Before entering the army I was a mess but afterward I became very organized.”

Stanley Sigstad - Trader Sigstad's Coffee

“Military service taught me that taking care of people is just as important as turning a profit. We truly believe that in helping others in a fair and honest way that we are also helping ourselves to be better people.”

robert thomas - Thomas and Sons Home Efficiency

“Taught me the importance of responsibility, commitment, integrity, honor, service. Never to give up, always stand for what is right. GOD bless all our veterans, and GOD bless the United States of America.”

Jose Uz - Caribbean Realty Support Services