PAYS SIGNING CEREMONIES

Lineage

By: Samuel I. Armstrong

Lineage participated in a signing ceremony with Michigan Army National Guard (MIARNG) in Novi, MI. The ceremony, hosted by MAJ Steven Babbitt, Executive Officer, MIARNG included Susan Williams, Director of Talent Acquisition, Lineage, and Jeff Rivera, Global Operations Officer, Lineage who served as the guest speaker.

Lineage plays a vital role in protecting the world's most valuable resources - food. As the largest dynamic temperature-controlled warehousing and logistics company, they reimage the global food supply chain to fight food insecurity and eliminate waste at their facilities around the world. They partner with food and beverage companies to help make the cold chain more efficient, sustainable, reliable, and most importantly to feed the world.

Photo right - CPT Jared Johnson, MIARNG, MAJ Steven Babbitt, XO, MIANRG RRB, Susan Williams, Director of Talent Acquisition, Lineage, Christie Music, Senior Military Recruiter, Lineage and Jeff Rivera, Global Operations Officer, Lineage.

The partnership between Lineage and the MIARNG serves as a testament to their shared dedication to supporting Veterans and the local community. Through this collaboration, Soldiers can seamlessly transition into Civilian life by leveraging their valuable skill sets, which are readily transferable to roles within Lineage. This alliance is not only about employment but also about fostering a supportive environment where Veterans are valued and empowered. By working together, Lineage and the MIARNG aim to ensure that Soldiers have access to meaningful career opportunities and the necessary support to thrive in their new roles.

MAJ Babbitt stated, "PaYS serves as another critical conduit for Michigan Veterans and their families as they transition through all phases of life."

Jeff Rivera said" "I firmly believe that our participation in the Army PaYS Program will help us connect with future leaders who will further strengthen the awesome team and culture we've built here at Lineage."

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department

By: Matthew Green

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department (SBCSD) recently announced official partnership with the US Army. The partnership was formalized at a signing ceremony held at the Rancho Cucamonga High School (RCHS), where LTC Matthew Upperman, Commander, Southern California Army Recruiting Battalion and Shannon Dicus, Sheriff, San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department joined to signify this collaboration. In attendance was Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA) Janet Chin, students, and faculty from RCHS, SBCSD deputies and Soldiers from Southern California Army Recruiting Battalion.

The signing ceremony marked the beginning of such a partnership, promising benefits for both the military and local law enforcement. LTC Upperman stated, "This PaYS partnership between the Army and the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department represents a shared understanding that both organizations benefit when the people we serve are aware of the careers we offer and the benefits of service to your country and community. We are dedicated to bringing passionate and talented people into the Army and local law enforcement, and our missions overlap."

Photo right - LTC Matthew Upperman and Sheriff Shannon Dicus

Sheriff Shannon Dicus further added, "As a Veteran, I understand and appreciate the significance of this partnership with the Army. I am pleased to offer this opportunity to Soldiers transitioning out of military service and look forward to seeing them excel in a new career with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department."

CASA Chin remarked, "Now more than ever, in a time when Civilian employers are searching for a workforce that is ready, willing, and highly skilled; there is no better partnership than that with the Army. This is a win-win investment developed by the Army to ensure that relationships are built prior to a Soldier's transition to a Civilian career. This career-ready path forward, benefits industry and in the long run, creates a better and more quality workforce. That's a win for everyone."

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department is the law enforcement agency for the largest geographical county in the nation. The department serves over 2.1 million residents, with eight county and 14 contract patrol stations, and over 4,200 employees to ensure the quality and safety of those we serve. The department is augmented by several divisions to include aviation, training, patrol, dispatch, court services, detentions, gangs and narcotics, crimes against children, and the coroner's division.

Photo left - LTC Matthew Upperman, Sheriff Shannon Dicus, and CASA Janet Chin

Pro Services, Inc.

By: Samuel I. Armstrong

PRO Services, Inc. recently announced its official partnership with the US Army during a signing ceremony held in Portage, MI. LTC Robert Heffner, Commander, Great Lakes Recruiting Battalion and Kurt Wilmont, CEO, PRO Services, Inc. hosted the ceremony.

PRO Services Inc. is a multi-skilled trades contractor that provides contract mechanical services to industrial, commercial, and residential customers alike. Since 1987, PRO Services Inc. has consistently provided dynamic solutions with safety, integrity, and efficiency from its headquarters in Southwest Michigan.

Photo right - LTC Heffner presents plaque to Mr. Wilmont.

Photo below - Mr. WIlmonth signs, as LTC Heffner and Mr. Haddock look on.

PRO Services, Inc. offers mechanical services that seamlessly align with the demands of the Army's mechanical field. Transitioning Soldiers, equipped with extensive training and practical experience, will find PRO Services Inc. to be a natural fit. Their adept skill set, complemented by the discipline ingrained through military service, ensures a smooth integration into the company's operations. This synergy between military expertise and PRO Services requirements not only facilitates a seamless transition but also promises enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in delivering top-tier mechanical services.

Coca-Cola Bottling Company United

By: Samuel I. Armstrong

Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, third largest bottler of Coca-Cola products in the U.S. recently participated in a signing ceremony with Alabama Army National Guard (ALARNG) in Birmingham, AL. The ceremony, hosted by BG Mike Izzo, Assistant Adjutant General, ALARNG included Cola Bottling Company United, and Mike Suco, President, and CEO, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United who served as the guest speaker.

Founded in 1902 and headquartered in Birmingham, AL, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United stands as a formidable presence in the beverage industry. As the second largest privately held Coca-Cola bottler in North America and the third largest in the United States, Coca-Cola United boasts an illustrious history deeply intertwined with the iconic Coca-Cola brand. In recent years, the company has embarked on a monumental transformation, expanding its business in size and scope.

Photo right - Coca-Cola bottles with labels celebrating the partnership

Photo left - BG Izzo presents plaque to MS. Jones

Photo below - Victor, James Trammell, MAJ Morrecus Foster, Ms. Gianetta Jones, BG Mike Izzo, Mr. Mike Suco, and Samuel

BG Izzo said, "I think this is such a great program and an opportunity for the ALARNG and Coca-Cola Bottling Company United. We are looking forward to being long term partners."

Ms. Jones stated, "Here at United we've got all the same types of work ethic, discipline, and punctuality; it's all about a teamwork here in United. Just like it is in the military, so it fits perfectly when you think about when a Soldier comes to work for us after they served in the military."

Mr. Suco said, "For me personally, the pride that I have, knowing that we have an opportunity to hire and bring on board associates who have served our country is just a great feeling. I know it is for our company and its really part of larger strategy that we must continue to recruit and bring military personnel into our organization because when we hire those associates, they already embody our core values."

Amteck, LLC

By: Samuel I. Armstrong

Amteck, LLC is a leading electrical and technology services company with a reputation for excellence in the construction industry. Specializing in electrical contracting, engineering, design-build, and technology solutions, Amteck delivers comprehensive services to clients across various sectors, including commercial, industrial, healthcare, and institutional markets. With a focus on innovation, quality craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction, Amteck tackles complex projects with precision and expertise, earning a trusted position as a go-to partner for electrical and technology needs.

At a signing ceremony, Amteck announced partnership with the US Army in a significant step towards supporting Veterans and fostering opportunities for their transition into Civilian careers. The event was graced by MG Haldane Lamberton, The Adjutant General, Kentucky Army National Guard (KYARNG) and David Turner, CEO, Amteck, LLC. Addressing the audience during his remarks, MG Lamberton highlighted the bond shared by members of the military community, regardless of their active service status. "Whether you're in the Army National Guard, active duty, or a Soldier in the Army Reserves, and even when you end your time in service or retire, you are still a Soldier," said Lamberton. "So, for the Army PaYS Program, it really kind of mirrors that dynamic, and it's a dynamic of taking care of our folks while they are currently serving in uniform and beyond their service."

Photo right - (l-r) David Turner, CEO, Amteck, LLC is presented with the plaque of participation by MG Lamberton.

Photo left - (l-r) David Turner, CEO, Amteck, LLC and MG Lamberton.

Photo below right- Participants in the Amteck Signing Ceremony

David Turner shared, "We are a family-owned company. We have roughly around 1,000 employees, and we try to stay as much of a family as we can. So, what I love about the PaYS program, and what anybody knows that served this country, is that it is a family. It's Americans who want to serve this country, and they do it for a reason. For us to be able to partner with a program like that and bring any of the other Servicemembers to our company is the biggest honor. I've always said the best employees who come to this company will be ones who served our country because of the dedication they have to care for others, their attention to detail, and the discipline and structure they go through. This program is so important to Amteck because we work throughout the country, and the Army is spread throughout the country. We work in 38 states and are licensed in 42 different states, so this program could work fantastic. As we continue to grow, we can bring on more Servicemembers."

Guest speaker, Rolland Smith, Executive Vice President, Amteck and retired Kentucky Guardsmen said, "Once you get back from basic training and you get your first job, it's time to learn your next job. It's the same with the electrical trade. We go to our apprenticeships, and we continue to learn from there," Smith attributed leadership to the reason for connecting Amteck and the U.S. Army.

Lastly, Linda Gorton, Mayor, Lexington, KY, shared during her remarks, "I want to thank the leadership of Amteck for coming together in this partnership with the U.S. Army and to bring this Partnership for Your Success Program to our city. And I am happy that you're sharing your success by creating opportunities for Servicemembers." Mayor Gorton went on to describe how PaYS program not only will benefit the Veterans who are looking for meaningful jobs, but how it will benefit Amteck as well. She said Veterans bring teamwork, dedication to a mission, and understanding of a work ethic that embodies good employees.

USIC

By: Samuel I. Armstrong

USIC, a leading provider of underground utility services in Indiana recently participated in a signing ceremony with Indiana Army National Guard in Indianapolis, IN. The ceremony, hosted by Major Jay Hildebrand, Executive Officer, Indiana Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion included Craig Haydamack, Chief Human Resources Officer USIC, and CASA Stan Soderstrom, Indiana, who served as the guest speaker.

USIC is America's largest provider of underground utility damage prevention services with operations in 48 states and corporate headquarters located in Indianapolis, Indiana. The company, which serves more than 1,400 telecommunication, electric, gas, water, and sewer utilities, as well as municipalities, performs over 84 million locations each year. Additionally, USIC provides a range of advanced utility services and solutions performed by its affiliate companies, Blood Hound, Reconn Utility Services, and On Target Utility Services.

Photo right - MAJ Hilebrand presents Mr. Haydamack the PaYS plaque

Photo left - CASA Stan Soderstorm, Guest Speaker, gives remarks.

The signing ceremony marks a significant partnership between USIC and Indiana Army National Guard, showcasing USIC commitment to supporting the military community and providing career opportunities for servicemembers. The event underscores USIC's dedication to providing essential transportation services while fostering strong relationships with local communities and organizations.

TJ Martin, USIC Senior Manager of Military Recruiting, stated. "We are committed to providing meaningful career opportunities, development, and support to military veterans, who comprise nearly 10% of the USIC workforce. The skills and experience gained in the military align with USIC's mission of protecting the nation's critical infrastructure and ensuring public safety. I want to thank the Indiana Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion for the opportunity to commence USIC's PaYS Program partnership with today's signing ceremony.

Altru Health

By: Samuel I. Armstrong

Altru Health is an American healthcare organization headquartered in Grand Forks, ND. Serving over 230,000 residents in northeast ND and northwestern MN. Partnering with the US Army, Altru is the newest Army PaYS partner.

LTC Khrysten Grace, Commander, Minneapolis Recruiting BN presented Derek Goebel, Chief Financial Officer, Altru Health with the plaque of participation. During her remarks, LTC Grace said, "When Veterans enlist, they're signed up for the PaYS program, guaranteeing five job interviews once they get out of the Army. Even though it's not a guarantee of a job - obviously, they still have to interview, they have to be qualified - it's a really great framework to build a plan for the future. The unknown is always going to be a little frightening. This partnership helps build a defined pathway with partners, that we know have good intentions in hiring, who are positive toward the Army, and will value the skills that Soldiers have gained in their time in service, that is so important."

Photo right - LTC Khrysten Grace, Commander, Minneapolis Recruiting BN presented Derek Goebel, Chief Financial Officer, Altru Health with the plaque of participation.

Photo left - Cake cutting ceremony

Mr. Goebel said, "I think the biggest need that we have continues to be the clinical staff. Nurses, technicians, unit coordinators and others in those type of roles. And the Army has those jobs. The Army employs nurses, and so if I can get a nurse that says, 'Hey, I want to just go work at Altru,' this is the perfect fit to fill some of those gaps. For the Army, the benefit of working with an organization like Altru, is that they offer jobs with skills that directly translate from time in the service to the workforce. And the benefits go both ways, as a pipeline of well-trained Veterans could be a big boost to staffing."

Saint Paul Police Department

By: Samuel I. Armstrong

Saint Paul Police Department, a law enforcement agency in the capital of Minnesota recently participated in a signing ceremony with Minnesota Army National Guard in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The ceremony hosted by MG Shawn Manke, Adjutant General, Minnesota Army National Guard included Axel Henry, Chief of Police, Saint Paul Police Department, and Honorable Melvin Carter III, Mayor, Saint Paul, Minnesota, who served as the guest speaker.

The Saint Paul Police Department is the main law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the city of Saint Paul, Minnesota. It was established in 1854, making it the oldest police organization in the state. The Saint Paul Police Department promotes safe and healthy neighborhoods in Minnesota's capital city. The department employs approximately 800 people, including 575 sworn officers.

Photo right - MG Manke presents plaque to Chief Henry as Mayor Carter looks on.

Photo left - SFC Jessica Stiffarm, MNARNG, Saint Paul Police Officer and Samuel Armstrong

Photo below right- Mayor Carter, MG Manke, and Chief Henry cut the cake.

The Saint Paul Police Department boast a proud tradition of welcoming Veterans into it ranks, recognizing the invaluable skills and dedication they bring to the force. SFC Jessica Stiffarm, currently serving in the MNARNG exemplifies this commitment. Recently, she proudly represented both the MNARNG and the Saint Paul Police Department as part of the joint color guard, showcasing her unwavering dedication to both institutions. This symbolic gesture underscores the deep integration of the military and law enforcement values within the department, acknowledging the seamless transition of Soldiers into their ranks. Through initiatives like these, the Saint Paul Police Department continues to honor and leverage the unique expertise that Veterans offer, enriching their organization and the community they serve.

MG Manke stated, "The PaYS program exemplifies our commitment to collaboration and mutual support together we can achieve far more than we could alone and by working together with our Civilian partners we can ensure that our Soldiers have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in both their military career and their Civilian career."

Chief Henry said, "When you want to move on to a new career and that doesn't mean you have to join our Police Department, our department and our city is committed to the idea that if you leave the armed forces and you want to come be a backhoe driver or you want to work in a library, you want to run a rec center we'd love for you to come work for our department, we want those people who serve, we want people that understand there's something bigger and broader than just themselves."

Honorable Melvin Carter said, "We take seriously what it means to bring new servants through public service, people who know what it means to serve, people who know what it means to say something is greater than me, some greater cause is bigger than myself, we say it all the time and many companies say that does not make it anymore any less true or less sacred that all of the men and women who serve our city our county state or country in uniform you are the one who run into the situation the rest of us would run away."

Memphis Area Transit Authority

By: Samuel I. Armstrong

Memphis Area Transit Authority, a leading provider of passenger transportation services in Tennessee recently participated in a signing ceremony with Tennessee Army National Guard in Memphis, Tennessee. The ceremony, hosted by BG Steven Turner, Assistant Adjutant General, Tennessee Army National Guard included Bacarra Mauldin, Interim, CEO, Memphis Area Transit Authority, and Erik Stevenson, Chief Strategic Partnership and Programs, Memphis Area Transit Authority, who served as the guest speaker.

The Memphis Area Transit Authority is the public transportation provider for the Memphis area. As one of the largest public transit operators in the state of Tennessee, MATA transports customers in the City of Memphis and parts of Shelby County on fixed-route buses, paratransit vehicles and vintage rail trolleys. The system is governed by a policy board appointed by the City Mayor and approved by the Memphis City Council.

Photo right - BG Turner presents Ms. Mauldin with PaYS plaque

Photo left - Mr. Stevenson, Guest Speaker gives remarks.

Photo below right- Tennessee Army National Guard present the colors during the ceremony.

The signing ceremony marks a significant partnership between Memphis Area Transit and Tennessee Army National Guard, showcasing Memphis Area Transit Authority commitment to supporting the military community and providing career opportunities for Servicemembers. The event underscores Memphis Area Transit Authority's dedication to providing essential transportation services while fostering strong relationships with local communities and organizations.


"Putting people first is a priority for the Army and this partnership with the Memphis Area Transit Authority is one of the ways we are trying to ensure our Soldiers have every opportunity to succeed." -BG Steven Turner

US Government of the Virgin Islands

By: Velvett Jenkins

Hosted at the Government House in Christiansted, St. Croix, The US Government of the Virgin Islands - Division of Personnel partnered with the US Army at a signing ceremony where LTG Maria Gervais, Deputy Commanding General and Chief of Staff of TRADOC, presented Cindy Richardson, Director of the Division of Personnel for the Government of the US Virgin Islands, with the plaque of participation. The plaque symbolized the commencement of a collaborative effort dedicated to providing Veterans with the resources and opportunities necessary to thrive in their Civilian careers.

Central High School JROTC Color Guard presented the colors while Ms. Jackson sang a soulful rendition of the National Anthem and the Virgin Islands March. LTG Gervais said during her remarks, "The PaYS Program provides opportunities for not just the United States Army, but for those that live here, the communities that they've grown up in, it provides opportunities to come back with the skill, credentials, and offer to make things better. Industry partners are afforded the opportunity to have a talent pool to draw upon."


Ms. Cindy Richardson said, "It is with great pride that we announce this partnership with the Government of the Virgin Islands - Division of Personnel and the US Army with their transition into Civilian life. In the USVI, we recognize the importance of supporting our returning Soldiers as they reintegrate into the workforce. We are committed to providing them with the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive in their USVI careers. The PaYS Program serves as a valuable benefit for those serving in the US Army, US Army Reserve, the National Guard and those contracted for ROTC cadets."

Photo top left- LTG Maria Gervais, Deputy Commanding General and Chief of Staff of TRADOC, presented Cindy Richardson, Director of the Division of Personnel for the Government of the US Virgin Islands, the plaque of participation

Photo left - Ms. Cindy Richardson addresses the audience

Photo top right- LTG Maria Gervais addresses the audience

Photo right- Karl Knight, Governor Chief of Staff shared remarks

Karl Knight, Governor Chief of Staff also shared remarks. "Throughout the territory, there is no shortage of work, with many capital projects underway. The only shortage there is, is workforce. As a military spouse there is one organization that invests in training individuals and that's the US Army. This partnership is a wonderful synergy to a critical need that we have. I congratulate everyone involved as it is a 'Partnership for OUR Success'."


The ceremony also featured LTG Gervais administering the Oath of Enlistment to Future Soldier Jaye Alexis Whipper, symbolizing the continuation of the legacy of service and sacrifice.

The event concluded with a ceremonial cake cutting. Among the esteemed guests in attendance were CASA Beresford Edwards, MG Knox Limbacker - The Adjutant General of the Virgin Islands, LTC Hector-Murphy - RRB Commander, COL Mathrin-Lee, Director of Joint Staff, Air National Guard, CSM Liburd, RRB CSM, and SFC Joseph - RRB Operations, alongside members of the Central High School JROTC, whose presence added to the significance of the occasion.

Photo left -LTG Gervais and Future Soldier Jaye Alexis Whipper

Huntsville Hospital

By: Victor Fleming

Huntsville Hospital conducted a signing ceremony on its campus, formalizing the partnership with the U.S. Army. The ceremony was hosted by LTC Jason Kim, 2nd Medical Recruiting Battalion Commander, Mr. Tracy Doughty, President and Chief Operating Officer, Huntsville Hospital along with other representatives from Huntsville Hospital. MG Walter Duzzny, U.S. Army Materiel Command Chief of Staff and Assistant Deputy Commanding General for the U.S. Army Reserve and Governor Thomas "Tommy" Battle Jr. provided remarks as guest speakers.

During the ceremony, MG Walter Duzzny, stated "This was an awesome day for Huntsville, and even greater for Huntsville Hospital. When you look at the values of Huntsville Hospital and the Army's values, there are a lot of commonalities. This partnership is historical and an organization like the hospital helps Veterans and Soldiers move in the right direction after transitioning from the Army."

Mr. Doughty remarked, "With the Army we know we're getting Soldiers and Veterans that will work hard, show up on time, and they're eager to learn and we that's why this partnership is so important."

Photo right - LTC Kim and Tracy Doughty sign the Huntsville Hospital ceremonial MOA.

Photo left - Alabama A&M University Army ROTC Color Guard Posting the Colors for the ceremony.

Photo below right- Mr. Doughty and LTC Kim pose with the PaYS Ceremonial Plaque.

Governor Battle also shared in his remarks, "When we look at Huntsville Hospital, the second largest employer in the City of Huntsville, and then we look at the US Army Redstone Arsenal, which is the largest employer in Huntsville, and we put both those together, there is a recipe for success. It's a recipe to bring forth a workforce that is disciplined, that is ready to work on this workforce, that has a lot of great qualities that any of us would afford to have in our workforce. When you put together the US Army and Huntsville Hospital, you get a well-oiled product that serves the community and provide better health care."

Huntsville Hospital's mission is to provide high quality care and coordinated services that improves the health of the community and serve with, Values, Safety, Compassion, Integrity, Excellence, Innovation, Accountability, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Buffalo Rock Company

By: Victor Fleming

Buffalo Rock Company proudly solidified its commitment to support Veterans by becoming a PaYS partner. The ceremony not only marked a formal agreement, but a dedication to fostering opportunities for servicemembers transitioning into Civilian life.

The ceremony was hosted by LTC Michael Johnson, Montgomery Recruiting Battalion Commander, Ms. Malanie Gee, Executive Director, Recruiting and Talent Development, Buffalo Rock Company was in attendance along with other representatives from Buffalo Rock Company. Jennifer Zelko, End User Support, System Admin and Cyber Manager, Buffalo Rock Company participated in the ceremony as a guest speaker.

During the event, LTC Michael Johnson, stated "It can be a stressful and complex endeavor to pursue Civilian employment after serving in the military. The PaYS program helps remove some of that stress, while setting conditions for success, Soldiers are leveraging their skill sets in their local community. PaYS is a unique program designed to connect Soldiers to business communities for future employment through the program. Soldiers are leveraging their opportunities and are guaranteed a job interview with five PaYS partners of their choosing upon completion of service."

Ms. Gee stated, "There are two roadblocks that I've run up against in my recruiting career. The first is access to talent. Each military installation has different rules on how to access military talent directly. Number two is, and I did a lot of research throughout my 13 years of recruiting, on how to translate Servicemembers' resumes and experience into Civilian life, and that's been a challenge. Those challenges are no longer a factor with this partnership. We will be able to directly communicate with Soldiers and understand their talents."

Photo right - LTC Johnson gives remarks during the ceremony.

Photo left - Ms. Gee signs the Buffalo Rock Company ceremonial MOA, LTC Johnson awaits his turn to sign.

Photo below right- Victor Fleming, Malanie Gee, Jennifer Zelko, and LTC Johnson pose with the ceremonial plaque.

During her remarks, Ms. Zeiko said, "I thought the program's only intent was to benefit Servicemembers since it's a U.S. Army program. Then, I began thinking of the word 'Your' in the title 'Partnership for Your Success', and how it relies on the perspective of the listener. The program benefits both Servicemember and employer. Buffalo Rock is honored to interview the best candidates and offer employment to Soldiers."

Buffalo Rock Company, in the beverage industry, renowned for its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. From iconic soft drinks to cutting-edge energy drinks and refreshing bottled water, Buffalo Rock Company continually delights consumers with its wide-ranging portfolio.