Comments on the Military and Business Ownership

“Preparation and organization. Meeting deadlines, commitments and greater respect for our country and honor and respect for our fellow country men.”

Lawrence Daniels - Da Arla Tax Services

“The Army instilled three traits into my personality. Discipline, honor, and initiative. Discipline helps me to run my business effectively and efficiently. Honor allows me to maintain a solid client base because I strive to "do the right thing" at all times, even if it means losing money on a job. Initiative gives me the desire to constantly improve processes, keep up with new technologies, and take advantage of opportunities to provide new and improved services to my clients.”

David Sazama - eFusion Systems

“Leadership, Focus, Attention-to-Detail, Perseverance, Character, Empathy, Passion and Commitment.”

William Faucett - Flagship Logistics, LLC

“It gave me a chance to have HUGE responsibility at a very early age. I was in charge of some very high profile programs. This experience propelled me into having the skills needed for entrepreneurship!”

Jeffrey Luckado - IMPACT Homebuyers Group, Corp

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

Richard Fendley - Interior Fusion, LLC

“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

“Big business is a bunch of "Hurry up, and Wait!" Just never give up.”

Steven Carr - Dreamweaver Distribution, LLC

“I became more confident in myself to the point if someone else is doing well I could to.”

Gary Wainwright - Zrii International

“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.

“The discipline and rigid routines have prepared me to be honest, trustworthy, and above punctual in my approach to all of my inspection activities.”

Thomas Spoor - Quality Home Inspection

“Serving in the Army has given me the ability to listen, learn, and go with my instincts. I set the example of a good citizen, businessman, family man, providing good moral standards, and high integrity. ”

Walter S Willingham - Superior Retail Services, Inc.

“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 work ethics. Work hard when it is time to work and shut it off when it's done. I don't have have to use my command voice very often these days, but it's there when I need it.”

Mary Smith - Virtual Imagery Photography

“Military training and discipline coupled with hard work, long hours and camaraderie were influential in building fortitude, preparedness and can-do attitudes in me for life after the military. Seeing so many countries and what people live like in other parts of the world gave me an immense appreciation for what we have had here in America like no other experience could have. Being thankful for our freedoms by knowing the cost involved from our veterans and founding fathers is invaluable.”

Marty DiGiacomo - True Blue Transportation

“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

“Made me a more dynamic, honest and determined individual!”

Jake Haap - Orion Home Inspections

“Motivation, Discipline, and Foresight!”

John Paff - EAR Alaska

“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

“As Infantry Sgt., On a mission you are responsible for 500K plus in gear, and the lives of your unit, starting a business with all it's stress and frustration, could never compare to combat. We fought together, now we grow our business together.”

Colin Archipley - Archi's Acres, Inc.

“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

“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

“My time as an active duty Marine gave me the discipline and sense of accountability that has helped me become not only a better business person but a better individual. Take pride in everything you do whether it's at home or on the job.”

Chris Finck - Waddell & Reed

“Gave us the fortitude to Last in Business from 1977 to now.”

Edward Ginner - Alachua Telcom Inc.

“Personal relations and discipline.”

Henry Canup - Henry Canup's Metal Polishing

“Taught me planning.”

Peter Peno - The Hitch Man, Inc

“The military taught me responsibility and determination.”

James Jarrett - North American Environmental Services, LLC

“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 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.

“The 343rd. & 2849th. Civil Engineering Squadrons taught me the ins & outs of the Construction Industry. From how to set Brick, Block, Concrete, Windows, Doors & Drywall to Materials Procurement & Scheduling just to name a few.”

Michael Pereira - Palm Home Improvement Inc.

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

Karen Auguste - Purple Lynx Inc.

“Taught me how to deal with stress!”

Marty Katz - QBD Consulting, Inc

“The military instills in most persons a sense of responsibility and respect for structure. The chaos in our daily lives is much better dealt with, I believe, by a person with a military background as opposed to one without. This is evident by the shear number of people locked up in our prisons at enormous cost to our society. For those who chose to change their lives or to seek adventure or to follow in the footsteps of another in joining the military, my hat is off to you. All the best!”

John Berosh - Information Systems 2000

“While I served in the Vietnam War, I learned many skills and trades. It has helped me to develop a sense of good morals and values in my family life as well as my professional career as a Prime Contractor.”

Jerry Bechel - BB&K Construction, LLC

“Organizational Skills.”

Keith Picard - VAL-FAB, Inc.

“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

“Standing on my feet for hours, listening to the roar of the ships engines, and being meticulous are all necessary characteristics of a good sailor and a vigilant press man!”

Jeff Hooper - Hooper Printing

“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

“Serving in the military gave me a good sense of direction and ethical business practices as well as a hard-working and responsible lifestyle.”

Michael Friedberg - Secure Standards, LLC

“Work ethics, and responsibility.”

Thomas Hughes - DOD Consultants, LLC

“As a cook in the Seabees (NMCB-40) I grew to love the job & continued to cook after getting out of the military. This led me to start an ice cream parlor during the 1980's waffle cone craze & become inventor of the original flavored cookie cone.”

Eric Nielsen - My Go To Guy Products

“Focus, dedication, will to survive, discipline.”

Kelly Dearwester II - Premier Link LLC

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

David Salvadorini - Salvadorini Consulting LLC

“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 Marines instilled me all of the morals and qualities a person needs to be be successful in business and life.”

Michael Witt - A Cut Above Tree Service

“Attention to detail. Management skills with employees.”

Ryan Powell - The Cleaning Corps

“Discipline.”

Thomas Crook - Uncle Tom's Handyman Service

“Responsibility for actions, leadership, commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and being on time are all qualities that 23 years of military service taught me, enabling me to be successful after leaving the military.”

Keith Sublett - Gorilla Integrations, LLC

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

Eric brackman - RFI Consultants

“It gave me the skill to stick to it when the going has been slow.”

Richard Jennings - R H Jennings, LLC

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

Michael Addison - Siella Imaging LLC

“The organizational and preparation skills I can say have given me a high drive to succeed in my business. Creating new goals and commitments. Being physically and mentally focused to complete specified tasks. Creating solutions to problems. I can say this is what the Military has done for me.”

Robert Dano - Zodiac Cleaning System 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 professionalism, discipline, and character of the people I had the honor to serve with taught us to always respect and treat our fellow man the way we want to be treated in business and in our every day life.”

Daniel B Jones - Purification Technologies

“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

“Went thru some trying times in the army (helicopter crew chief-Vietnam) which makes you stronger, so you can give the extra effort it takes to run a business.”

William Whelan - The Printing Works

“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

“Military service provided the ability to achieve tailored results in complex operating environments with a diverse work force. Teamwork, collaboration and individual/team achievement are key to customer satisfaction and company growth and professionalism.”

Ben Saylor - Fidelity Contract Flooring, LLC

“Honesty and integrity!”

Ronald McClaskey - R-Mac Electrical Service

“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 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

“Planning for multiple scenarios and learning to think independently and still be a team member are just a couple of attributes passed from active military service to being a business owner.”

Alan Ferneau - Tymely Moments - Brandon

“Military Service enabled me to have the discipline and internal drive to succeed in creating and growing my own company.”

Jamie Falconi - Stellar Apparel

“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

“Becoming a soldier taught me to be a better business owner because I learned to face my fears from within. After I conquered, I was able to join the forces of many other strong individuals that possessed the strengths that I so longed to have.”

Silvia Torres Timoteo - Luxury Maids, Inc

“Never quit or give up!”

Randy Hill - RRJN Inc.

“Organization skills, accomplish anything attitude.”

Allen Hafer - Sandal Marine Services

“My military service enhanced my ability to meet the challenges that owning a business sends my way. By teaching me that I am stronger physically and mentally then I ever thought possible.”

Dawn Mata Crane - La Matadora Cosmetics

“Discipline, pride in workmanship, attention to detail, extraordinary customer service ethic.”

Jeff Truesdale - Proforma True Solutions

“Serving in the Army and now the Reserves has helped me to be more aware of the world around me. My organizational and communication skills have improved, I have an increased love for my country and our freedoms. I returned from my 4th deployment to Afghanistan (2012) and am honored to say that I have served with the finest men and women and am grateful for their support and for what we have learned together.”

Adam Peters - Three Willows Counseling, LLC

“The discipline, training, and life experiences make veterans the best small business leaders in the civilian community. We use all those learned lessons and training experiences and apply them to our day to day operations and find they work extremely well.”

Michael Mizell - Millennium Security Services, LLC

“Define goals, keep focus and achieve defined objectives.”

Leslie Cooley - Pierce/Cooley Architects, Inc.

“It has given me the discipline to realize that what the mind can see it can achieve!”

Richard Olvera - LegalShield Independent Associate - Richard Olvera

“Taught me to interact with all different types of people. Taught me discipline and accountability. Taught me loyalty.”

Steve Andrascik - Steve Andrascik (Henderson Home Search)

“It provided me with the discipline needed to operate in a fluid manner even in stressful situations.”

Brad Crawford - Top Home Inventory Services

“Attention to detail!”

eric smith - Father and Sons Lawn Care

“The military prepared me very well by instilling the willingness to work long hours and a toughness to complete any task. The military also gave me the opportunity to get a degree using the GI Bill which made this all possible. Thank you!”

Dennis Dilley - PCB Interconnect Solutions, LLC

“Military service instills many fine characteristics such as integrity, responsibility, loyalty, commitment, and much more. It makes you appreciate the freedoms that we are afforded because of the sacrifices of those know what it truly means to serve.”

Jeff Haynes - Realty Inspection Services, LLC

“Home inspection requires something the Army is very good at and that is attention to details. It is our job to find any potential safety problems along with any problems with the major systems of the home that might be high dollar issues.”

Anthony Cassady - Essayons Home Inspections, LLC

“Active, detail-oriented, discipline, focus, hardworking, observant, regimented, scheduled.”

Pete Petroulias - Phoenix Communications & Cabling, Inc.

“Being a Corpsman in the Navy for 8 years taught me leadership and attention to detail.”

Jeff Moore - Quantum Home Inspections, LLC

“The Marines helped build my organizational skills and Leadership role in my Community.”

Phillip Bird - 1st Down

“Endurance and diligence.”

Tim Donaldson - Media Dreams LLC

“We understand the stresses imposed on the military families, and offer a standing discount for active duty military.”

Kenneth Schroeder - Bryant House Bed & Breakfast

“Work with no supervision.”

Mike Morin - Mike & Sue Properties

“I joined the USAF right out of high school. I received Engineering Training, worked in Civil Engineering and earned my Bachelors Degree while serving on active duty and understood the basics of Land Development as I entered into the civilian world.”

William F. Mitchell - ML Development

“The military taught me to apply attention to detail in all my work. It has helped my organize, plan and execute the services I provide to my customers.”

William Slusser - Patriot Cleaning Services

“Dedication, hard work and always faithful (semper fidelis).”

Ron Hall - R & S Small Engine Service

“Discipline and stick-to-it-tiveness, organizational skills, administrative, keep moving forward in the face of adversity; no doubt that without the skill sets I learned and honed in 18 years of military service that they prepared me.”

Doug Kelly - SEO for My Website

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Max Hills - Reliable Auto Service, Inc.

“The USN 82-86 has taught me or helped prepare me in life for all the big words like, responsibility, dependability, respect, fairness, and much more! I probably would not be where I am today without this valuable duty of serving my country!”

Michael Marcus - Las Vegas Tile and Grout Cleaning

“Understanding what teamwork it takes to truly take care of specific needs of soldiers directly applies to customer service. You must apply yourself and your team to provide great customer service.”

Richard Tillery - Veterans InfoSec Services

“I've learned to be a manager and dealing with different types of personalities. To have the persistence and dedication to drive through the difficult times and push hard for success. To maintain the highest level of INTEGRITY in all my dealings.”

Scott Husted - Shreveport Filtration LLC

“Leadership and management skills.”

Shawn Gray - WTSI

“Improvise and overcome any difficult situation which applies to the construction trades, organization and planning to meet all challenges.”

JOSEPH REYNOLDS - RYN Electric, LLC

“As a Military Veteran, I have learned the importance of being a team player, as well as the ability to organize, and manage in a business environment. I have learned the ability to speak intelligently to any and everyone I meet.”

Deontea Vickers - The Notary Lady Services

“I learned from my tour of duty as a Marine Corps Helicopter Pilot many personal traits and core values that serve me well in 29 years of business in real estate.”

David B Meyers - Meyers & McCabe Properties

“As an active duty member of the United States Army, I learned many many skills essential for entrepreneurship. I learned self discipline, leadership, commitment to task. I am grateful for the experience I had in the military for these reasons.”

Honey Rodgers - Premier Backyards

“My experience as an electrician in the Navy helped enable me to use this knowledge in construction and remodeling for residential and commercial customers.”

Robert Stouter - Stouter Construction, LLC

“We are able to produce the required documentation, samples and attention to detail needed to help make our customers approvals and acquisition processes go smoothly.”

Will Cronin - Tiger Foam Insulation

“Discipline, drive, and the determination to succeed and overcome any challenges I must face with persistence and the strong desire to achieve and do great things!”

Mark Jette - Artisans & Stone Craftsmen MARCO JETTE LLC

“Military Service should be an obligation and not an option. It prepares you for life!”

Jeff Ross - The One Day Landlord

“G6 Communications is owned by 3 U.S. Marines who understand what attention to detail means.”

Mark Clemens - G6 Communications, LLC.

“Being a veteran of 8 years and still an active member of the reserves, has taught me to work hard, be dedicated to my goals, and continue my education. I have also gained the quality of presenting myself in a professional manor.”

Cory Jiggens - Fishbone Computing

“Opened our small business up to more consumers. Especially fellow veterans who have stood tall and proud for our country.”

Kenneth Elliott - P's Sleeves

“Good cow. It taught me discipline and self control. Also helped me be a better judge of character.”

Bill Hodge - HP Engineering, Inc.

“I think just the basic hard work that was involved with my job. I was an operating engineer but found myself operating a handle (shovel) more often than not. The work ethic that was formed really can't be beat. I wouldn't have it any other way.”

Adam Butusov - M1 Property Management Company

“Leadership traits and principles instilled by the Corps.”

Wade Grant - PC Tech MediX

“I am a disciplined, well organized and punctual business owner who believes in providing a quality service at a reasonable price.”

Joe Ferguson - Rio Grande Home Inspections, LLC

“Introduced me to mechanical engineering.”

Paul Martin - Sigma Psi Consulting Engineers, PLLC

“My training and combat tours have given me the knowledge to train others.”

Eric Ives - Tactical Strategies and Concepts, Inc.

“The Military taught me a number of things. The values of hard work, dedication, and integrity. In my business its crucial that my clients feel and know that I am taking care of their best interests with the highest of ethical standards.”

Conrad Caldwell - North State Insurance Group, LLC

“In December, 1967, I executed the documents to attend officer candidate school in the US Marine Corps. My approval to participate in the program occurred in April, 1968. I began my military career in July, 1968 as a US Marine. I completed officer candidate school and was awarded a commission as a 2nd lieutenant in the US Marine Corps Reserve. I then attended The Basic School and subsequently attended USMC combat engineer school. All Marines are seaborne infantry riflemen first and foremost. My training in leadership, military discipline, military organization, small unit tactics, espirit de corps and general preparation to go to war in Vietnam has served me well in business. My experience in war in Vietnam as a platoon commander of 30 plus Marines, my experience as a company commander of 180 Marines and my experience as a company level executive officer gave me leadership experience where I assumed responsibility for managing the lives of men that is only possible in war time.”

Ben Bell - JMC Construction LP DBA Safety Nerds

“Provided the discipline needed to manage day-to-day business and unexpected obstacles.”

Arthur Brussard - TruckCourier, Inc

“Well-established a specialized military background while working in the civilian world offers a wealth of knowledge to the public and government agencies.”

Mike Drevline - Tradevet, Inc.