Veterans Day 2013

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Veterans Day 2013

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Each year on Nov. 11, the world pauses to honor members of the armed forces who have served their country since World War I. Armistice Day, as it was first known, became an official holiday in Britain in 1919 on the first anniversary of the peace treaty. It later became a national holiday in several European countries and the United States. In the U.S., Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans.

Transcript of Veterans Day 2013

Page 1: Veterans Day 2013

Veterans Day 2013

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Jose AcostaU.S. Army, Military Police, Firefighter and ChaplainAvaya Swing Shift Security Officer

This photo was taken at Goodfellow Air Force Base, San Angelo, Texas.

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Stanley AdamczykU.S. Air Force Staff Sgt., Fire Protection Specialist (1971-1977)Avaya Senior Manager, Contract Negotiation

1971-1973 Reese AFB, Lubbock Texas; 1973-1975 RAF Alconbury, Huntingdon England; 1975-1977 Westover AFB, Chicopee MA. This is a photo from Veterans Day 2011 with my daughter Amy.

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Adam AnselmU.S. Army Power Generator MechanicAvaya Lobby Security Officer

This photo was taken at Fire Base Nili, Daykundi Province, Afghanistan.

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Bob BachmanU.S. Navy Interior Communication Technician (1971-1974)Director of Avaya Customer Experience

I served in the U.S. Navy on nuclear-powered submarines during the Vietnam/Cold War period, patrolling the north Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea.

Since our patrols were a deterrent to all-out nuclear war with the Soviet Union at the time, my submarine was rarely in port. My longest stay underwater was 65 days. We never had to fire any missiles, but prepared for that event every day at sea.

My military service on submarines prepared me very well for life afterward. On submarines, we all had to work together very closely and understand each other’s jobs in case we were trapped in a compartment by ourselves and others could come to help. (continued)

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Bob BachmanU.S. Navy Interior Communication Technician (1971-1974)Director of Avaya Customer Experience

(continued)

I used that mentality in my professional life, when training others to perform tasks. I enjoy the “We” mentality at Avaya because it fits me to a T. I foster this idea daily in the meetings I attend and the teams that I lead.

I still belong to several organizations surrounding U.S. Veterans and submarine veterans. I recently applied for a volunteer position at the Intrepid museum in New York City and was accepted immediately.

I completed the training and can now be found most Saturday mornings on the U.S.S. Growler SSG577 submarine, tied up alongside the Intrepid aircraft carrier in New York City, talking about submarine life to all kinds of people who visit the museum from around the world. (continued)

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Bob BachmanU.S. Navy Interior Communication Technician (1971-1974)Director of Avaya Customer Experience

(continued)

I especially like it when Boy Scout troops visit because I can see a glimmer of myself in their young eyes. If you have the time and are in New York City, stop by and visit the Intrepid museum. You won’t be disappointed. While you’re there, come down below on the U.S.S. Growler and say hello.

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Joel BarreraU.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class, Telephone Installer (1976-1996)Avaya Systems Engineer

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Erik BathkeU.S. Marine Corps Fire FighterAvaya Badging Administrator

This photo was taken in Bagdad, Iraq, in July 2003.

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Warren BaxleyU.S. Navy Lieutenant, Nuclear Submarine Officer (1989-1996)Senior Director, ACS Maintenance Offer Management, Avaya

I was a “plankowner,” serving on the U.S.S. Nebraska SSBN 739, which means I was part of the first crew that the ship had after its construction in 1993.

After shakedown period, where we put the ship through pretty much everything she was capable of doing--including one very exciting day where we launched 4 big intercontinental missiles--I served through two, 75-day strategic deterrence patrols.

We kept the world safe for democracy, and ultimately played a major role in the end of the Cold War. This is a picture of the Nebraska. I’m actually in the picture of the ship, although it’s admittedly hard to tell.

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Bruce BorriU.S. Navy Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class (1969-1973)Avaya General Manager, 3rd Party Services

I was in the U.S. Navy from 1969 to 1973, and I am a Vietnam-era vet.

As a member of Naval Air Attack Squadron VA-66, I worked as a flight deck troubleshooter, when we were deployed aboard aircraft carriers.

We flew A7 Corsairs II’s (see picture). Our squadron spent time aboard the U.S.S. Lexington and U.S.S. Independence. I’m also a “Blue Nose,” having crossed the Arctic Circle in 1971 while aboard the Indy.

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Steven BowenU.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class (1979-1983)Avaya Technical Support Engineer-AOS Service Delivery

As Telephone Technician 2nd class, I served in Oregon and Washington states, providing communications to all U.S. Coast Guard stations in the Northwest.  My greatest honor (although I did not realize it at the time) while serving: In 1979, I was a seaman apprentice stationed in Galveston, Texas, assigned to the group.

On the night of Jan. 28, 1980, the USCGC Blackthorn (WLB-391), a seagoing buoy tender, sank in the waters of Tampa Bay after completing an overhaul. The Blackthorn was in transit back to her home port of Galveston. Twenty-three shipmates perished in the accident. (continued)

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Steven BowenU.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class (1979-1983)Avaya Technical Support Engineer-AOS Service Delivery

(continued) I served as an Honor Guard, and escorted several shipmates to their final resting and folded the American flag in honor of their sacrifice.  This honor always lives with me. Understanding that in peace and in conflict, men and women of the U.S. military proudly serve their country and some pay the ultimate sacrifice.   Memorial Day and Veterans Day are just two days out of the year. Please honor all our troops, and thank them for their service when the opportunity arises.

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John BrocenosU.S. Army Sgt., 82nd Airborne Division (1971-1973)Avaya Professional Services Senior Regional Project Manager

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Tom CainU.S. Army Specialist (1986-1989)Avaya Global Engineer

From 1986 to 1989, the majority of my tour was in the Panamanian conflict that captured Manuel Noriega.

I was a crew chief helicopter mechanic for the 2/9 infantry. I recorded more than 250 hours of helicopter flight time over the canal, some of which occurred at night.

It’s one of the few places in the world where you can see both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans from above, at the same time, without a pressurized cabin.

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Nicole CastilloU.S. Navy Aviation Boatswains Mate Handler Petty Officer 3rd Class (1996-2008)Avaya Opportunity Specialist, Sales and Technical Support Operations

I joined the United States Navy as an airman apprentice on November 4, 1996, and was stationed onboard the U.S.S. John F. Kennedy from 1997 to1999, home ported out of Naval Station Mayport, Florida.

Having been from Colorado, it was a significant change to go from a landlocked state to a floating city. I worked in V-3 Division as a blue shirt plane handler, aircraft elevator operator, and yeoman for the air department.

Our ship was part of Operation Southern Watch, and assisted in training activities along the Eastern seaboard and in the Mediterranean. On my first deployment, we stopped in Koper, Solvenia, where we were the first U.S. ship to arrive after the country had broken off from Czechoslovakia. (continued)

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Nicole CastilloU.S. Navy Aviation Boatswains Mate Handler Petty Officer 3rd Class (1996-2008)Avaya Opportunity Specialist, Sales and Technical Support Operations

(continued)

One young man brought a medal to me that his grandfather wore in the war for their freedom, which I have kept close to me.

In 1999, I was temporarily assigned to Naval Station Mayport as part of the Air Terminal team, where I became a Petty Officer 3rd Class Aircraft Director. From 1999 to 2000, I was stationed at Naval Air Station Whiting Field as part of the Aircraft Crash and Salvage team at the airfield.

In October of 2000, I was transferred to Boston. In 2001, I re-enlisted as a Boatswain Mate 3rd Class Petty Officer as part of Military Sealift Command in the reserve unit, as a stevedore on board civilian ships taking supplies from the United States to our troops overseas. (continued)

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Nicole CastilloU.S. Navy Aviation Boatswains Mate Handler Petty Officer 3rd Class (1996-2008)Avaya Opportunity Specialist, Sales and Technical Support Operations

(continued)

In 2005, I was transferred to Naval Station Everett, Washington, as part of Naval Coastal Warfare, ensuring coastal readiness for Marines to move onshore in Fallujah safely.

In 2008, I was honorably discharged from the United States Navy, but my service continues as I assist with Operation Christmas Cards to troops in the Denver metro area each year.

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Al CazaresU.S. Air Force Captain (1972-1992)Technical Director, Avaya Government Solutions Satellite Communications

Radio Maintenance Technician, Luke AFB, AZ, 1972-1981Satellite Systems Engineer, Scott AFB, IL, 1984-1988AFROTC Instructor, University of Minnesota, 1988-1991Systems Integration Office, Peterson AFB, CO, 1991-1992

I am thankful to those who have served, who are now serving and will be called to serve.

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David ChamberlainU.S. Marine Corps Sgt., Avionics Com/Nav System Technician (1982-1990)Avaya Systems Technician

David Chamberlain (right)

I served in the USMC from 1982 to 1990 as a component-level Avionics Technician on Com/Nav systems supporting A-4, A-6, F/A-18 RF-4 and KC-130 Squadrons. Duty StationsMCRD Parris Island           10/82-12/82NAS Memphis                   01/83-07/83MCAS Cherry Point        07/83—8/83MCAS El Toro                     08/83-09/90MCAS Futenma                04/86-10/86

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Travis ChrystalU.S. Navy Data Systems TechnicianAvaya Senior Applications Consultant ICE

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Charles CollinsU.S. Navy Data Systems Technician, 2nd Class (1977-1983)Avaya R&D Project Manager

I served in the US Navy from 1977 to 1983 aboard the U.S.S. Guitarro (SSN 665). Our mission was to test and certify the submarine launch of the Tomahawk cruise missile.

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Tony CorwinU.S. Air Force Technical Sgt., Telecommunications Specialist (1988-2001)Avaya Professional Services, Senior Regional Project Manager, New England

I started out as a Telephone / Data Circuitry Specialist (a fancy term for the telephone guy) at Hill AFB, Utah. I spent the majority of the 90s in Europe (RAF Molesworth, north of London), and Ramstein AB in Germany, with a brief stint in Korea, just for fun.

I was stationed at Lackland AFB, TX; Sheppard AFB, TX; Hill AFB, UT; RAF Molesworth, UK; Osan AB, South Korea; Ramstein AB, Germany; Taszar AB, Hungary, and Tinker AFB, OK. I consider my time in the Air Force to be among the most satisfying both personally and professionally. (continued)

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Tony CorwinU.S. Air Force Technical Sgt., Telecommunications Specialist (1988-2001)Avaya Professional Services, Senior Regional Project Manager, New England

(continued) I traveled the world, lived in places I never imagined an Ohio farm boy like me ever could.  I’ve visited ancient castles, been face-to-face with North Korean soldiers in the DMZ (you should try it sometime), meditated with Buddhist monks, and made lifelong friends, all the while learning a valuable profession that has served me well in the civilian world.

If it wasn’t for a service-related knee problem that forced me into early retirement, I would still be a member of the U.S. Air Force.

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Henry CribbsU.S. Air Force Technical Sgt. (1985-1997)Avaya Senior Engineer, Global Remote Solution Support

I served in the U.S. Air Force for 12 years, from 1985 to 1997.

I served in a mobile unit for 8 years, during the first Gulf War Desert Shield/Storm. I also served in the Operation Restore Hope mission in Somalia.

After that, I became a Technical Instructor and spent 4 years teaching new troops microwave/satellite maintenance.

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Nicole CrouseU.S. ArmyAvaya Graveyard Shift Security Officer

This photo was taken aboard the USS Missouri, Pearl Harbor Memorial, Oahu, Hawaii.

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Alan DavenportU.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class, Data Systems Technician (1974-1980)Avaya Field Technician

I spent 2 years in training, then 4 years onboard the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk aircraft carrier.

Below, you’ll see a photo of the Kitty Hawk, and sailors spelling out the words, “Press On.” (I’m standing in the bottom left corner of the “O.”) This photo was taken in 1980, off the coast of Iran during the Iran hostage crisis.

“Press On” was the motto of our captain.

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Kevin B. DavisU.S. Marine Corps MajorMajor Accounts Manager, Healthcare, Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Prior to the ground offensive of Desert Storm, a brigade of Iraqi forces pushed south across the Kuwaiti border and into Khafji, Saudi Arabia.

Unknowingly, they cut off our squadron detachment and headquarters units, where we had been pre-positioned for the start of the air offensive phase of the war.

We controlled air strikes from that position in support of our U.S. Marine ground forces and pushed them back north across the border.

Their intel was lacking, and they had no idea that within a few miles they had isolated a significant command element of our Marine forces on the ground.Major Davis, in 1991 at Kuwait International Airport,

surveying captured Iraqi air-to-ground missiles.

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Dan DeLozierU.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class, Search and Rescue Diver, U.S.S. EnterpriseAvaya Professional Services, Managing Principal, West/Central U.S.

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John DiGiacomoU.S. Air Force Sgt. (1967-1971)Avaya Territory Account Manager

I served in the Vietnam Conflict from December 1967 to June 1969. I was stationed at Cam Rahn Bay, Republic of South Vietnam.

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Jeff DiLulloU.S. Army Infantry Captain (1991-1999)Senior Director, Avaya Global Sales Enablement

Early in life, I knew I wanted to serve in the military.

I was lucky enough to serve nearly a decade on active duty after graduating from West Point, and loved every minute of it. I traveled to some very “interesting” places during that time.

Two aspects I enjoyed most about the Army were the unity of focus and consistent teamwork.

When we deployed on a mission, everyone’s job directly contributed to a single cause–my unit’s whole focus was completely aligned, even though people played different roles. (continued)

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Jeff DiLulloU.S. Army Infantry Captain (1991-1999)Senior Director, Avaya Global Sales Enablement

(continued)

That made it easy to count on the person on either side of me–everyone had trained hard and knew their jobs well, so there was always a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie in everything we did.

These are attributes I try to bring to our everyday work at Avaya, as well. I am very thankful to those with whom I served, and for my fellow veterans at Avaya.

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Bill DobsonU.S. Air Force Colonel (1970-2000)Security Manager, Deutsche Bank Account Team, Avaya

Bill Dobson received his commission in May 1969 through Reserve Officers Training Corp (ROTC) at Saint Michaels College in Vermont.

He entered active duty in January 1970 as a Management Analyst Officer at Colorado Springs, Colorado.

He became a special agent in the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) in 1972 and served as an investigator in New York and Maine.

Bill left active duty in 1976 and entered the USAF Reserves as an Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA) and continued to serve as an agent and commander with AFOSI in New Hampshire, Florida, Colorado, Texas, Guam, Panama and Washington, DC. (continued)

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Bill DobsonU.S. Air Force Colonel (1970-2000)Security Manager, Deutsche Bank Account Team, Avaya

(continued)

He served as a member of the protective services team for the Secretary of Defense from 1985 – 1990 and formed the initial AFOSI computer crime task force in 1992.

In 1995, he was returned to active duty as the Commandant, Air Force Office of Special Investigations at Andrews AFB, MD and later served as Chief of Reserve Affairs, AFOSI.

Bill retired in May 2000 after 31 years of service at the grade of Colonel.

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Matt DouglasU.S. Army Captain (1989-1992, 1992-1997)Senior Director, U.S. Sales Operations

I went through college on an ROTC scholarship and entered Officer Basic Training at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL two days after graduating in May 1989.

I was assigned to Fort Bragg, NC, home of the 18th Airborne Corps and our U.S. Army quick response unit. I managed the ammunition supply point at Fort Bragg and we were very busy around Christmas 1989, supporting the Panama invasion.

In August 1990, my unit was deployed to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Shield and later, Iraq, in support of Operation Desert Storm. (continued)

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Matt DouglasU.S. Army Captain (1989-1992, 1992-1997)Senior Director, U.S. Sales Operations

(continued)

In the early days I worked 18- to 20 hour days, establishing an ammunition supply point in an abandoned rock quarry north of Dahran airport and east of the port of Al Jubail.

I have a Scud missile fragment and an Iraqi soldier’s helmet in my office at Avaya as remembrances of my 9 months in the desert. I am proud to have served.

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Chuck EmmetteU.S. Army Captain (1989-1994)Director of Avaya Professional Services

I always knew I wanted to serve my country, and came from a family that had multiple generations of veterans. 

I was fortunate to serve as an Army Officer in the Armor Branch from 1989 to 1994, in one of only three Armored Cavalry Regiments, the 11th Armored Cavalry (Blackhorse) based in Fulda, Germany as a Scout and Tank Platoon Leader and Scout Troop Executive Officer.

I spent my entire time in Germany in a unit that provided border security on the East Germany Border, minus a stint in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait in 1991 for Operation Desert Storm. (continued)

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Chuck EmmetteU.S. Army Captain (1989-1994)Director of Avaya Professional Services

(continued) Awards included the Airborne Badge (you all have to try jumping out of a perfectly safe airplane five times), Northern Warfare Badge (did me a lot of good in the Middle East!), 11th ACR Combat Patch, Southwest Asia Service Medal, and multiple other service badges.   The thing I learned the most and shaped my career at ADP and Avaya has been about teamwork.

Everything I did in the military focused on trusting the people you work with, taking care of each other and remembering we are in this together, and if we work as a team there is no problem we cannot solve or obstacle we cannot overcome!

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Brian FeasterU.S. Marine Corps Sgt.Avaya Technical Project Manager

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Armando FelixU.S. Army InfantryAvaya Swing Shift Security Officer

This photo was taken in 2011 at Combat Outpost Gary Owen, Talil, Iraq.

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Don FindlayU.S. Navy Reserve, Petty Officer Quartermaster 2nd Class (1983-1993)Avaya Senior Manager, U.S. Global Deals Desk

I was called to active duty for Desert Shield (which would eventually turn into Desert Storm) in August of 1990, assigned to Military Sealift Command Far East, Yokohama, Japan.

Deployed for the year it took to ramp-up and pretty much complete operations, I remember this being a challenging time for my family.  My wife and I had only been married 4 years, we had a 2-year-old daughter and 4-month-old son, and we were weeks away from closing on the purchase of a house (which I would miss out on).

Even though this was only 23 years ago, it was on the edge of widespread use of the public Internet and email.  We relied on the once-a-week phone calls and exchange of audio cassette tapes, letters and pictures via the mail for our family connectedness.  (continued)

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Don FindlayU.S. Navy Reserve, Petty Officer Quartermaster 2nd Class (1983-1993)Avaya Senior Manager, U.S. Global Deals Desk

(continued)

There was no high-speed, always-on Internet connection with live video conferencing, IM, Facebook, Twitter, Gmail or other such services and applications. 

I find this truly amazing and I think back to how it was for the veterans before me in Vietnam, Korea, World Wars I and II and further back and know that it’s not just us who are in the services of our country who sacrifice, but our families did too.

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Eric FlatenU.S. Air Force Staff Sgt., F15 Avionics System Specialist (1991-1998)Avaya Professional Services, Senior Consultant, Software Specialist

1991-1992 Lackland AFB, TX; Lowry AFB, CO1992-1994 Tyndall AFB, FL1994-1997 Kadena AFB, Okinawa, Japan1997-1998 Eglin AFB, FL

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Jes FleschU.S. Air Force Meteorologist (1999-2007)Avaya Professional Services Technical Project Manager

As a meteorologist in the Air Force, I supported several missions, such as Operation Noble Eagle, Keen Sword and Keen Edge overseas.

I provided flight weather briefings for Air Force and Army bases during missions such as air refueling, drone flights, and Air National Guard air drops. It was probably the most difficult job I’ve ever had.

Pilots and their aircrew relied on our forecasts to safely carry out their missions. While stationed overseas, I provided daily reports to the base commander regarding North Korea’s missile launch capabilities and possible contaminant disbursement areas based on forecast weather. (continued)

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Jes FleschU.S. Air Force Meteorologist (1999-2007)Avaya Professional Services Technical Project Manager

(continued)

I believe the military prepared me to handle stress, multi-task, and take responsibility for my actions early in life.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time serving my country, appreciate the knowledge and life skills I gained, and cherish the lifelong friends that came along with the ride.

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Craig GodloveU.S. NavyAvaya Graveyard Shift Security Officer

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Robert HakeU.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd ClassAvaya Database Developer

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V. Gary HarrisU.S. Coast GuardAvaya Systems Applications Specialist

I retired from the Coast Guard Reserve after 40 years – 8 years were in the Navy (5 years active – Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego & NAS Moffett Field near Mountain View, California and 3 years Reserve in San Jose, California and Honolulu, Hawaii)

I transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve when I moved from the San Francisco Bay area to Humboldt Bay with Pacific Telephone.

I moved to other Coast Guard reserve units in San Diego and Denver when I transferred with AT&T. (continued)

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V. Gary HarrisU.S. Coast GuardAvaya Systems Applications Specialist

(continued)

I served in active duty during the Vietnam War era. Active duty while in the Coast Guard Reserve was at various units in and around Humboldt Bay in Northern California; the Coast Guard station in Alameda, California; the Coast Guard station in Memphis, Tennessee; Coast Guard District in St. Louis, Missouri (during the flood of 1993); the Coast Guard Center in Topeka, Kansas; the Coast Guard station at Mare Island in Vallejo, California; and the Coast Guard station at Treasure Island in the San Francisco Bay.

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Robin HazlewoodU.S. Navy Aircraft MechanicSenior WFO Solution Consultant, Avaya Professional Services

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Danno HoldenU.S. Navy ControlmanAvaya Named Account Manager

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Adam HuffU.S. Army, Heavy EngineerAvaya Shift Security Officer

This photo was taken at Fort Carson, CO in 2010.

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Rick HughesBritish Army MajorAvaya Program Management Practice Principal

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Steve HullettU.S. Army Staff Sgt. (1979-1986, 1991-2008)Avaya Systems Engineer

I retired after serving in the US Army from 1979 to 1986, and the Georgia Army National Guard from 1991 to 2008.

My last overseas tour was during Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2005 to 2006, serving as a M1A1 tank maintenance team leader for 1-108th Armor GaNG, attached to the 3rd Infantry Division.

Awards include a Meritorious Service Medal, Purple Heart, ARCOM with "V" device.

After retiring, I went back to Baghdad as a contractor, supporting communications for the U.S. Air Force at Sather Air Base, Baghdad International Airport, where I worked, until joining Avaya in November 2011.

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Steven IanettaU.S. Army Specialist IV (1977-1981)Avaya Professional Services Program Manager

I served in the Army from 1977 to 1981, straight out of high school. I learned telephony in the military and have been in the field ever since.

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Kate L. IrwinU.S. Air Force Senior AirmanAvaya Critical Accounts Program Manager

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Wayne KarbowskiU.S. Army Infantry and Chaplains AssistantAvaya Swing Shift Security Officer

This photo was taken near Kirkuk Iraq, May 2004.

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Jose La GrenadeU.S. Army 91 Alpha Combat MedicAvaya AURA Contact Center Engineer

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Steve LambU.S. Navy EM1-SS (1976-1982)Senior Network Test Engineer, Avaya Engineering

I enlisted in 1976, and tested and qualified via written test for nuclear submarine service.

I trained for 2 years, gaining the equivalent of a 4-year college degree in physics. I visited all 4 corners of the U.S. during my training: San Diego, California for basic training, Orlando, Florida, for college instruction geared toward nuclear physics, Ballston Spa, New York for submarine simulator training, and Seattle, Washington to meet my submarine.

I joined the crew of the U.S.S. Parche, SSN683, based out of Mare Island, California.

I qualified on subs in my first year, as an Electricians Mate on the nuclear plant that powered the sub. (continued)

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Steve LambU.S. Navy EM1-SS (1976-1982)Senior Network Test Engineer, Avaya Engineering

(continued)

I operated the electrical plant, throttles (propeller), and started up and shut down the nuclear reactor.

I went on 4 missions. The highlight of my career was participating in the decommissioning of the first nuclear-powered sub, the U.S.S. Nautilus, SSN-571, at Mare Island in 1980.

I received an honorable discharge in May 1982, where a tug transported me from the deck of the sub–outbound on a mission–to Treasure Island in the San Francisco Bay. I was on the bridge with the captain as we transited under the Golden Gate, through the ‘potato patch.’ It was a memorable 6 years of my life, and an outstanding example of precision teamwork.

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John LeboU.S. Air Force, F-16/A10 Air Frame MechanicAvaya Day Shift Security Command Center Officer

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Doug LindroosU.S. Navy Petty Officer (1974-1978)Avaya Professional Services Client Principal

The United States officially ended the Vietnam War from our standpoint in January, 1973 for political reasons.

Unfortunately, this did not end the war for the Vietnamese, and the fighting continued until April 1975, when Saigon fell to the Communists. By April 1975, we still had some remnant of troops and a complete U.S. Embassy staff in Saigon.

I was a young, 18-year-old Navy Data Processing Tech Seaman Apprentice at the time. I was stationed on the U.S.S. Enterprise, CVN-65, just 1 mile off the coast of Vietnam.

I had only been on the ship for 1 month, after being helicoptered from a supply ship to the Enterprise flight deck in the South China Sea. (continued)

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(continued)

My normal day consisted of keypunching for 12 hours, then off for another 12.

During my off hours, I loved to go up to the O-11 deck (flight observation deck) to watch flight operations. Just imagine watching the movie Top Gun to understand what I saw.

One night, I observed massive helicopter operations to the Enterprise and all other supporting ships that had helo-pads.

What was really strikingly different was all the civilians that were coming off the helicopters. Some of the civilians were hosed down and led below deck. (continued)

Doug LindroosU.S. Navy Petty Officer (1974-1978)Avaya Professional Services Client Principal

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(continued)

The Navy works on the premise of things being on a ‘need to know’ basis. It wasn’t until later that night that our Captain came over the intercom to inform us that we had just completed an operation to evacuate the U.S. Embassy in Saigon.

Fast forward to December 2009. I was called for jury duty and happened to sit next to an older man who had a gold Vietnam Service pin on his lapel.

I introduced myself as a Vietnam vet and commented that I had noticed the pin. He began to tell me his Vietnam story, which was combat-oriented. (continued)

Doug LindroosU.S. Navy Petty Officer (1974-1978)Avaya Professional Services Client Principal

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(continued)

At that point, I felt compelled to tell the story I described above in a humble, ‘gosh golly’ approach.

I never really felt like I was put in harm’s way, compared to the combat folks. The older man looked at me and told me that his wife was assigned to the Saigon Embassy and on the day of the Embassy evacuation, she was the very last U.S. citizen to be taken off the rooftop of the Embassy.

I was floored to hear that. His story meant so much to me. It made me feel like the whole experience had come full circle. (continued)

Doug LindroosU.S. Navy Petty Officer (1974-1978)Avaya Professional Services Client Principal

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(continued)

My veteran status now means more to me today than in the past because of his story. In the past, veterans like me felt unaccepted by our fellow citizens.

Today, it is so nice to be appreciated and thanked for serving. I am proud to have served my country and the U.S. Navy. I wear my Enterprise Ship’s Company ball cap with pride.

Many Avayans have seen me wearing the cap on Scopia calls. Some have even thanked me for my service.

Doug LindroosU.S. Navy Petty Officer (1974-1978)Avaya Professional Services Client Principal

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Ramon J. LopezU.S. Navy Aviation Warfare Systems Operator (1992-1999)Avaya Marketing Manager, Caribbean and Central America

My greatest experience in the U.S. Navy was being forward deployed aboard the U.S.S. Independence in Japan.

As an air crewman, I flew missions in enforcement of the no-fly zone in Operation Southern Watch, and protected Taiwan from the People’s Republic of China during the Third Taiwan Strait Crisis.

The camaraderie and friendships that I built with my shipmates have stayed and will stay with me my entire life.

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Steve MacGregorU.S. ArmyAvaya APS Senior Consultant

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Michael McCulloughU.S. Air Force Communications Engineer (1979-2007)Avaya Professional Services Senior Program Manager

As a communications engineer in the Air Force, I did engineering on air traffic control and landing systems globally, engineered and installed base communications systems for the Ground Launched Cruise Missile bases in Europe, and the Department of Defense Global Command and Control System.

I served as the Director of the Air Force C4 Technology Validation Office and I also served in the Pentagon and the Air Force Command Center. I served as the Communications Squadron Commander at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.

I culminated my career as the Director of Engineering at the Air Force Communications Agency, responsible for projects like communication systems for unmanned aerial vehicles and secure communications systems for VIP aircraft, such as Air Force One.

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Thomas MerringU.S. Army Reserve Major (1976-1997)Senior Management Associate, Avaya Executive Support Group

It was my good fortune to have served my country for 21 years in the National Guard and Army Reserve. I enlisted in 1976, went to Basic Combat Training and my Advanced Individual Training in Field Radio Repair School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. In 1978, I graduated from Officers school and was promoted to Second Lieutenant.  

I spent the first 18 years in an Armored Calvary Unit, focusing on training for deployment of various weapons systems--helicopters, tanks and armored personnel carriers.  Subsequent to that, I transferred into the U.S. Army Reserve, co-drafting the 78th Division’s Training Plans while serving in the G3 Shop.  I retired in 1997. 

God bless our brave fighting soldiers, who defend our freedoms every day.  I am humbled by their sacrifices.

Page 71: Veterans Day 2013

Eric MerriweatherU.S. Marine Corps Corporal (1988Avaya Senior Sales Engineer

I served from 1988 to 1992. I was in communications and attached to Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 and First Marine Division, 11 Marine regiment. During my time in the marines I served in 23 different countries and was attached to Task Force Poppa Bear during Desert Storm. Thank you, to all that served or supported.

Page 72: Veterans Day 2013

Roger MillerU.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class (1973-1977)Manager, Deals Desk Support, Avaya

I went into the Coast Guard right out of high school in 1973 and served until 1977, when I left the service and moved to Silicon Valley.

I spent most of my tour on the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett, patrolling the North Pacific fishing areas for treaty compliance and guarding U.S. territorial limits (3-mile limit, 12-mile limit). During my tour, we captured a Japanese fishing trawler that was fishing within the 3-mile limit of the Aleutian Islands, which resulted in the largest fines at that time for violating our boundaries.

Also, I met a Russian fishing factory ship out at sea, and was able to do some bartering between the crews while the officers had dinner. During one of my last cruises, we took the Inland Passage from Alaska down to Seattle and participated in the Rose Festival and Fleet Week.

Page 73: Veterans Day 2013

Stephen MillerU.S. Army SpecialistAvaya Technical Support Senior Engineer

Page 74: Veterans Day 2013

Jim MocabeeU.S. Army Infantry and PSYOPAvaya Site Security Supervisor

This photo was taken in April, 2013 at Bagram Air Base, Parwan Province Afghanistan, just after a patrol mission to a village called Jhani Khel.

Page 75: Veterans Day 2013

James MorrellU.S. Navy Machinist Mate 2nd Class, Engine Room Supervisor (1984-1990)AOS Service Transition Project Manager

Page 76: Veterans Day 2013

Donald MorseU.S. Coast Guard AT2 (E-5) (1975-1979)Avaya CS1000 Senior Consultant

I was stationed at U.S. Coast Guard Airstation, Traverse City, MI, where I served as an aviation electronics technician. I also served as an aircrew/rescueman on the Grumman HU-16E Albatross and Convair HC-131A Samaritan aircraft.

Page 77: Veterans Day 2013

Vincent MurphyU.S. Air Force Space Systems Maintenance Technician (1993-1998)Operations Manager, Unified Communications, Avaya

I served within the U.S. Air Force from 1993 to 1998, spending time at Lowry AFB, Colorado, Holloman AFB, New Mexico, and Buckley ANGB, Colorado, in support of DSP (Defense Support Program).

After technical training at Lowry AFB, I spent 3 years at Holloman AFB in New Mexico with the 4th Space Warning Squadron, a mobile unit whose mission was to provide immediate, worldwide missile warning, space launch and detection in the event of an attack against the United States.

I completed my enlistment in 1998, after 2 years at Buckley ANGB, Colorado with the 2nd Space Warning Squadron–the primary DSP ground station in the continental United States. The mission of this squadron was to detect ballistic missile launches using DSP satellites, reporting launch information to NORAD.

Page 78: Veterans Day 2013

Gary NetherlandU.S. Army Corporal, Military Police (1988-1992)Avaya Client Service Manager

I served from September 1988 to September 1992. I spent three years at Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA) on the Big Island of Hawaii and one year at Johnston Island (JI) in the South Pacific. Both duty stations were incredible experiences and I think about my time there often.

Page 79: Veterans Day 2013

Chuck NeumannU.S. Navy SEALs / SEAL Team One (1976-1980)Avaya Senior Product Manager

I served from 1976 to 1980 at SEAL Team One right after high school, spending much of my time training FBI agents, U.S. Customs agents, and Allied special warfare teams in the Pacific region.

I also supported the mammals program and represented the U.S. Navy at the Hawaiian World Ironman Championships, NBC’s Survival of the Fittest, and Special Warfare Pentathlon Team.

I served short active duty time during the Gulf War to support special warfare activities in Korea and the Philippines.

Page 80: Veterans Day 2013

Wayne NicklessU.S. Navy Aviation Ordinanceman 2nd Class (1967-1971)Avaya System Applications Specialist

I served from 1967 to 1971 in Southeast Asia with A-4 squadron VA-66 on the U.S.S. Intrepid, and with VA-66 in the Mediterranean onboard the U.S.S. Forrestal. My last year of active service was in Iceland.

U.S.S. Intrepid

Page 81: Veterans Day 2013

Curtis NunnU.S. Army Staff Sgt. E-6Avaya Professional Services, Senior Consultant, Technical Delivery

I served nine years in the U.S. Army as Satellite and Microwave communications Technician. During the early part of my career, I was stationed in Arizona, assigned as a Troposcatter Radio Systems Engineer. During that time, I was able to travel all over the West Coast setting up systems to enable soldiers to communicate long distances. During the middle part of my career, I was selected for an assignment with NATO and stationed in Germany. The experience over those three years was something I will never forget. I worked alongside soldiers from England, France, Germany, and Canada, which really opened my eyes up to how other international military branches function. (continued)

Page 82: Veterans Day 2013

Curtis NunnU.S. Army Staff Sgt. E-6Avaya Professional Services, Senior Consultant, Technical Delivery

(continued) During the last three years of my military career, I was lucky enough to be assigned to the largest Satellite Unit on the East Coast, located just outside of Washington D.C. We were responsible for all Voice and Data traffic transmitted or received between the U.S. and Europe. This assignment also allowed me to obtain a Top Secret security clearance. My last year in the service was the most rewarding experience I have ever had in both military and civilian life. I was assigned to the United States Secret Service as a Communications Technician, and my duties were to support the 1992 Presidential Campaign. (continued)

Page 83: Veterans Day 2013

Curtis NunnU.S. Army Staff Sgt. E-6Avaya Professional Services, Senior Consultant, Technical Delivery

(continued)

I was lucky enough to meet President Clinton and Presidential candidate Pat Buchanan. This assignment allowed me to stay in many 5-star hotels and resorts that I may never have a chance to go back to, as well as visit many different states.

I also had the pleasure of working side-by-side with some really great Secret Service agents.

Page 84: Veterans Day 2013

Carl PayneU.S. Marine Corps Combat PhotographerAvaya Graveyard Shift Security Officer

Photo taken in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, October, 2010

Page 85: Veterans Day 2013

William PascoeU.S. Army Reserve, Engineers – Port Constriction (1968-1972)Avaya Sales Engineer SI/SP

I served six years in the U.S. Army Reserve Engineers during the Vietnam era as a Platoon Sergeant in a Port Construction Company (801st Engineers - PC) based out of the Presidio, San Francisco and Fort Baker in Marin County.

Tough duty you may think, but even though we were never sent to Vietnam for action, it always hung over our heads as something that was imminent. Our team actually rebuilt the Presidio Officers Yacht Club, which is directly under the Golden Gate Bridge in Fort Baker.

Page 86: Veterans Day 2013

Tia PerryU.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. (1985-1992)Avaya Technical Support Systems Engineer

Following the footsteps of my paternal grandfather Clifford Dumont, who was in WWII, and my father, Gary Dumont, who spent 24 years in the USAF and is now retired, I joined the military to travel the world and get an education.

I was stationed at McClellan AFB in the 1849th squadron and I  traveled all over the United States installing cryptographic equipment.

The job experience I learned in the service led me directly to my career here at Avaya on the JANUS program, where we travel the world and install communications equipment.

Page 87: Veterans Day 2013

Donald RayU.S. Air Force Sgt. (1971-1975) – Aircraft Radio SpecialistAvaya Sales and Technical Support Operations

I served at McGuire AFB in New Jersey from 1971 to 1973.

I volunteered to serve on flying recon aircraft in Vietnam, but as the conflict was winding down, I ended up being relocated to Zweibrucken AFB in Germany from 1973-1975.

This is a picture taken this spring, when I took my father, a WWII and Korean War veteran, to Washington D.C. on the Inaugural Honor Flight for WWII veterans from the Syracuse, New York area.

May God bless all service personal and their families.

Page 88: Veterans Day 2013

Dennis RogerU.S. Air Force Sgt.Advanced Solutions Architect, Avaya

Page 89: Veterans Day 2013

Terry SchurmanU.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. (1970-1978)Avaya Senior Technician

I enlisted in November, 1970, during the Vietnam War era, serving as an Air Traffic Controller stationed at McConnell AFB, Kansas.

I worked with F105’s fighter bombers that all headed to Vietnam/Thailand in 1972 to resume the bombing of North Vietnam.

I reenlisted and went to West Berlin, Germany, where I worked with French and British military controllers to direct civilian and military aircraft in and out of occupied West Berlin.

My next assignment was at Castle AFB, California, the largest B-52 training base and a West coast defense fighter location for F106’s. I left the service in November 1978.

Page 90: Veterans Day 2013

W. Lee SmithU.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class, 1st Tactical Fighter Wing (1976-1978)Avaya Professional Services Technical Delivery Readiness Manager

I served in the U.S. Air Force during peace time, in the 1st Tactical Fighter Wing as an A-Shop Avionics Maintenance troop supporting the Radar, Heads Up Display and Inertial Navigation systems. The Air Force educated me in Fundamental Electronics, Solid State theory, Digital Techniques and troubleshooting.

We were at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia and participated in various temporary duty assignments elsewhere. The F15 was then the newest fighter in the USAF inventory. It was a real high-performance machine in that it was the only jet that could gain speed going straight up.

I never was able to go for a ride.

Serving in the military was a great experience.

Page 91: Veterans Day 2013

Tobin SolkeyU.S. Army Sgt. (1985-1993)Avaya Channel Account Manager

I had to opportunity to serve in the U.S. Army from 1985 to 1993 as a Sergeant in the military intelligence field. A highlight would definitely be serving in the Persian Gulf War in 1990 and 1991.

Page 92: Veterans Day 2013

Laura SorrellU.S. Navy Air Traffic Controller, 2nd Class (1993-1997)Avaya Senior Manager, Global Client and Field Services

I served in the U.S. Navy from January 1993 to October 1997. I served my final two years as an Air Traffic Controller overseas on a non-U.S., non-NATO base.

We were not permitted to fly the American flag, except on the quarterdeck on base (inside) and at the U.S. Independence Day festivities (outside) one day each year. What had always been something I took for granted and therefore spent no time thinking about, was now forbidden.

This helped me to look at the military in a very different way than I had previously. Seeing my country’s flag fly once each year in the wide open really brought home the sacrifices so many had made before me, not only for the US but those that served for every country. (continued)

Page 93: Veterans Day 2013

Laura SorrellU.S. Navy Air Traffic Controller, 2nd Class (1993-1997)Avaya Senior Manager, Global Client and Field Services

(continued)

I was very young when I served and did not realize that I, too, had made a sacrifice. I just knew I missed my family, not seeing them for nearly 2 years!

Every country has its veterans, no matter which side of the war/conflict/issue they served. All honorable veterans should feel proud of what they have done for their country.

Page 94: Veterans Day 2013

Scott SpauldingU.S. Navy LieutenantAvaya Leader, WINDSTREAM Channel Sales

My last tour of duty in the U.S. Navy was as Officer-In-Charge of four Landing Craft Air Cushions (LCACs), two Landing Craft Utilities (LCUs), a Beach Party Team (BPT), three officers and 95 personnel.

I was responsible both administratively and operationally for the planning, execution, and tracking of all surface amphibious operations.

I successfully planned and executed more than 20 amphibious missions in the Pacific Rim and Arabian Gulf. This experience helped me to understand and be a leader of operation excellence as I transitioned into becoming a civilian.

Page 95: Veterans Day 2013

Kenneth StahlU.S. Navy Cryptologic Technician 2nd Class (1970-1977)Avaya Senior Consultant

I served from November 1970 until July 1977. In the early part of my service, I was based out of the U.S. Naval Communications Station in San Miguel, Philippines but spent most of my time detached to units operating in the Vietnam theater of operations.

This included a period where I was stationed at the Naval Security Group Detachment at Phu Bai in South Vietnam, and then a year where I rotated among several different cruisers operating in the Gulf of Tonkin.

Subsequently, I finished my time in the service at the U.S. Naval Communications Station at Rota, Spain where I was involved in communications security activities and was often deployed to ships in the 6th Fleet when they were conducting exercises, which sometimes included other NATO nations.

Page 96: Veterans Day 2013

Jim StevensU.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 4, Pilot/Flight Examiner (1963-1988)Senior Manager, Avaya North America Proposal Team

I served 25 years, starting out as a Crypto Officer. After two years, I became a pilot, then an instructor pilot, then a Flight Examiner.

I trained many Vietnamese and American pilots. I served two tours in Vietnam.

In 1983, I was the U.S. Army’s pilot of the year in Korea. I also served two tours in the Executive Flight Detachment in Washington, D.C.

I completed my military career at the Pentagon as the U.S. Army Action Officer for pilot training.

Page 97: Veterans Day 2013

Dan StorzU.S. Marine Corps Sgt. (1965-1969)Avaya Project Manager

I went through Paris Island 3 days after graduating from high school, then off to Cuba for 6 months.

I was then at Marine Barracks Clarksville, Tennessee. I was an E4 Corporal when I arrived in Vietnam, and made Sergeant that April, going from Right Guide to Platoon Sergeant by October.

I had to take over command of my platoon three times due to casualties. I always wondered why I made it back, when 44 of our men in the Company did not, and another 125 were wounded.

I am thankful to have landed with South Central Bell when I got home, and to know so many folks through these 44 years. (continued)

Page 98: Veterans Day 2013

Dan StorzU.S. Marine Corps Sgt. (1965-1969)Avaya Project Manager

(continued)

I am proud to have served and am proud to be part of our family at Avaya.

Since coming home, I’ve met with many families who have lost loved ones, and keep up with my guys at E/2/7 and have been their Chaplain over the years.

I was called Sergeant Story the whole time in Vietnam due to my first Platoon Sergeant not being able to pronounce my name correctly. I am still known as Sergeant Story today by my men and Vietnam friends.

Page 99: Veterans Day 2013

Mike StukasU.S. Marine Corps Sgt., 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion (1989-1994)Avaya QA System Test Engineer

I served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1989 to 1994, which included a deployment to Iraq for Desert Storm. I joined the Marines to serve my country, do all that cool stuff you see in commercials and heal from my Dad’s unexpected death.  As a member of a Reconnaissance unit, life was about discipline, challenges and teamwork. The training was grueling, but the adventure was what I had always dreamed about. (continued)

Page 100: Veterans Day 2013

Mike StukasU.S. Marine Corps Sgt., 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion (1989-1994)Avaya QA System Test Engineer

(continued)

My service highlights included helicopter-based operations, such as Helocasting and SPIE (Special Patrol Insertion/Extraction), amphibious operations and mountain patrolling. I am honored to be associated with all these Avaya veterans and I am truly humbled to be a part of the history of the United States Marine Corps. For all those warriors fallen, missing or wounded in battle... You Are Not Forgotten. Semper Fi.

Page 101: Veterans Day 2013

Michael TolomeoU.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. (1976-1992)Avaya Senior Technician

Page 102: Veterans Day 2013

Troy TwiggU.S. ArmyAvaya Swing Shift Security Officer

This photo was taken in Ghazni Province, Afghanistan in 2008.

Page 103: Veterans Day 2013

Manuel ValdezU.S. ArmyAvaya Graveyard Shift Security Officer

Page 104: Veterans Day 2013

George Van MeterU.S. Air Force, Missile Systems Analyst TechnicianAvaya Sales Support Engineer

Page 105: Veterans Day 2013

Doug VannerU.S. Army Sgt. (2000-2004)Avaya Aura Workforce Optimization Senior Solutions Architect

Serving in the U.S. Army was the most beneficial decision I've made in my life. 

For 4 years, I served my country in Georgia and South Korea, and came out the other side with great experiences I could not get anywhere else, and lessons that still strike true today.

Page 106: Veterans Day 2013

Michael VieauU.S. Navy Sonar Technician 1st Class (1973-1991)Avaya Professional Services PDS Implementation Consultant

I deployed aboard the:U.S.S. Lafayette (SSBN-616) on 9 Deterrent Patrols.U.S.S. George Washington (SSN-598) supporting Special Operations.U.S.S. Sam Houston (SSN-609) supporting Special Operations.

Page 107: Veterans Day 2013

Cary WalkerU.S. Army Staff Sgt. (1985-1998, 2006-2007)Avaya Technical Instructor

I served in the U.S. Army from 1985 to 1998.

However, my most memorable time was when I was called back to Active Duty in 2006. From April 2006 to October 2007, I was involved with Operation Iraqi Freedom and spent 12 months in Iraq.

There was a three month overlap in which my son was stationed on the same FOB (Forward Operating Base) as me, just outside of Balad, Iraq.

Page 108: Veterans Day 2013

Michael WingetU.S. Navy Administration SpecialistAvaya Swing Shift Security Officer

Page 109: Veterans Day 2013

Michael WoodU.S. Army Communications Chief, 82nd Airborne (1975-1991)Avaya Manager, Knowledge-Centered Support

I learned a real lesson in teamwork at 3 a.m. on a nice, cool (34 degrees Fahrenheit) January morning in 1976.

I was in airborne school. We were placed in formation, ordered to fill up our steel pots with sand and then throw the sand on the brightly-polished floor of our barracks.

We did this for about 30- to 45 minutes. At the same time, the “Black Hats” – our Airborne Instructors – tossed our equipment and personal effects throughout the barracks.

They mixed it up really well. At 4 a.m., we were told to have the barracks ready for a white glove inspection at 6 a.m. (continued)

Page 110: Veterans Day 2013

Michael WoodU.S. Army Communications Chief, 82nd Airborne (1975-1991)Avaya Manager, Knowledge-Centered Support

(continued)

We knew the consequences of not being ready. We all learned very quickly how to work as a team, although that was not obvious to us as at the time.

It is amazing what can be accomplished when everyone is striving for a common goal and failure is not an option. We were successful. Our reward? "Only" an 8 mile run, instead of 12 miles.

Page 111: Veterans Day 2013

Paul YostU.S. Navy Interior Communication Petty Officer 2nd ClassAvaya Senior Project Manager