This Veterans Day, Imperial Star joins the country in taking a moment to reflect on the sacrifices and experiences of those who served in the U.S. military.
Veteran employees Chris Lettman (Sales Manager), James Griffin (Warehouse Supervisor) and Thomas Hudgins (Sales Manager) share some of their experiences serving in active duty and ways that we can continue to support our vets.
Their stories are a great reminder of the bravery, camaraderie, and fierce work ethic that defines the lives of so many veterans.
James Griffin: U.S. Army National Guard — 10 Years of Service
James served in the Army National Guard for ten years, based in Fresno, California, as an 88M transportation driver. His most memorable experience was his deployment to Afghanistan, which he described as “like going back in time”.
James looks back on how the camaraderie with his fellow soldiers was both a source of joy and a bond formed through shared hardships. For James, Veterans Day is deeply personal—it’s a reminder of why he enlisted, the sacrifices made by those before him, and the values he teaches his children about respecting the holiday and those who served.
On his time in the military, James says “My time in the military taught me a lot and made me a better father, husband, and friend. It's taught me to grow, to be patient, to learn, to adapt, to stand up for others, to respect life, how to teach, and it’s taught me discipline…The military has provided me with a lot of support and benefits for me to grow and learn better.”
James believes that the best way for civilians to support veterans is by offering simple gestures of gratitude and respect — whether by saying thank you or by offering help when needed.
Chris Lettman: United States Marine Corps — 8 Years of Service
Chris served in the United States Marine Corps for eight years, with active duty in places like Camp Pendleton, Okinawa, the Philippines, and Saudi Arabia. He vividly remembers the shock of his first day of boot camp as a transformative experience.
To Chris, Veterans Day is about being thankful for the men and women who served, and for the respect they deserve. His military service instilled in him the courage to face challenges head-on and gave him the self-discipline and drive that have guided him through his personal and professional life.
Chris’ message to civilians looking for ways to support veterans on Veterans Day is: “Just say "Thanks" to a vet. Don't just do it on Veterans Day”.
Thomas Hudgins: U.S. Army — 5 Years of Service
Thomas joined the U.S. Army and served as a Patriot Crew Member for five years. His military career took him from basic training in El Paso, Texas, to a deployment in Germany, where he was stationed during Operation Desert Storm.
Veterans Day holds great significance for Thomas, symbolizing pride in his country and respect for those who served and sacrificed. However, he also acknowledged the challenges veterans face in forming personal relationships post-service, especially with those who have never served.
“It's hard for them to understand. I have grown a lot and feel I have made great strides in personal relationships. As for career growth, the military didn't have support when I exited.
However, the drive it gave me and the work ethics it provided me has allowed me to do all the wonderful things I have achieved in my career. I would not be where I am today if I didn't experience my time in the military.”
Thomas believes that civilians can best support veterans by understanding the lasting impact of military service and fostering unity and respect for one another in all areas of life.
Thank You.
This Veterans Day, we thank James, Thomas, and Chris for their brave service.
The perspectives of these veteran employees reflect the wide-ranging experiences of those who have served in the U.S. military. While their branches, stations, and roles varied, all three veterans have gained impressive, highly sought-after skills that have been invaluable to the strength and growth of Imperial Star Solar.
Thomas shares an empowering message for Veterans Day:
“Some [vets] have been through so much trauma. It changes you forever. I believe if civilians can come together and be less divided as a nation, it would help the soldiers who sacrifice so much to show them it was all worth it.
During these times, it seems as if all we do or hear about are things to divide our country and not unite it. We have lost sight of what we have all fought for. It is not just about freedom! We are all equal and we are all here to love and support each other! We should all be brothers, sisters, fathers, and mothers.”
Respect for our veterans should not just be one day, but every day of the year. Support your local vets, shop veteran-run businesses, employ veterans in your place of work, advocate for policies that better support our vets, and offer a simple ‘Thank You’.
To all of the veterans in our community, thank you for your service.