GOOD NEWS! - PaYS PARTNER, CITY OF AUGUSTA, ME POLICE SUPPORTS VETERANS

By: Victor Fleming

As we recognize the support of PaYS partners, we highlight the City of Augusta, ME, for their continued commitment to providing employment opportunities to Veterans and transitioning Soldiers. PaYS Marketing Analyst, Victor Fleming, had a chance to connect with Officer Everett Blair, a CPL in the Maine Army National Guard and City of Augusta Police Officer.

Mr. Blair, a 2021 high school graduate, had clear aspirations to be a police officer. However, he faced a challenge many young people encountered, he wasn't old enough to join the police force. Instead of waiting, Blair took a different approach by enlisting in the Maine Army National Guard. In 2021, right out of high school, Blair enlisted as a 12W, carpentry and masonry specialist.

Growing up with a shared sense of duty, he exemplified a strong commitment to public service from an early age. While Blair always dreamed of becoming a police officer, he knew that joining the Army National Guard would offer him the discipline, training, and leadership experience that would help him when he eventually took on a career in law enforcement. Fast forward to January 2024, Officer Blair now proudly serves as a member of the Augusta Police Department. He officially joined the force after completing police academy training. This transition wasn't as difficult for Officer Blair as it might have been for others. He credits much of his success to the skills and structure he developed while serving in the National Guard.

"The discipline and leadership skills I learned in the National Guard made adjusting to the police academy a lot easier," Officer Blair stated in an interview. "I was already used to military structure, following orders, and working as a team. That background helped me to focus and excel in the academy." Throughout his life, Blair has always had a strong desire to be a public figure and contribute to his community. Growing up in Maine, he witnessed firsthand the positive impact that local police officers could have. This inspired him to pursue his dream of becoming a law enforcement officer.

PaYS AT THE ARMY VS NAVY FOOTBALL GAME IN LANDOVER, MD

Story By: Crancena Ross

PaYS Marketer Crancena Ross and Antonio Johnson, Program Manager, attended the 2024 Army vs Navy football game at FedEx Field in Landover, MD. They connected with Soldier For Life representatives, LTC Raymond Wilson, Regional Director and MAJ Alexis Gonzales, Executive Officer to spread holiday cheer and program awareness. A special visitor, CSM Gregory Betty, US Army Reserve, stopped by to show his support. The game delivered a thrilling football experience for fans and attendees. With both teams fiercely competing, the game celebrated tradition and an opportunity to honor military service.














The event featured intense competition, but the ceremonial moments truly stood out. The Golden Knights, the Army's elite parachute team, performed a stunning jump, descending from the sky as the National Anthem played. Shortly before the game began, the crowd was treated to a flyover by military jets, which soared above the stadium in perfect formation. The roar of the engines and the synchronized display were a visual tribute to the service and sacrifice of the men and women in uniform, leaving the crowd in awe and reinforcing the game's deep military connection.

The PaYS and Soldier For Life programs continue to support Veterans' career transitions, emphasizing the Army's commitment to its Soldiers' future success.

PaYS PROGRAM MANAGER ATTENDS STUDENT VETERANS OF AMERICA NATIONAL CONFERENCE IN COLORADO SPRINGS, CO

Story By: PaYS Staff

The Army PaYS Program continues to strengthen its relationship with student Veterans, and this year, PaYS Program Manager, Antonio Johnson had the privilege of attending the Student Veterans of America (SVA) National Conference in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The conference, held annually, brings together student Veterans from across the Nation to network, learn, and grow within their academic and professional journeys.

This year's event provided an excellent opportunity for PaYS to engage with both student Veterans and industry leaders, offering insight into career pathways available through the PaYS program. By attending the conference, Mr. Johnson had the chance to share valuable resources and information with attendees about how the program can help them transition into meaningful civilian careers.

Photo left - PaYS Program Manager, Antonio Johnson

Throughout the conference, Mr. Johnson participated in discussions, panel sessions, and networking events, engaging directly with student Veterans, employers, and representatives from various organizations. These interactions highlighted the vast array of career opportunities for Veterans, and how PaYS partners with employers who understand the unique skills and experiences that student veterans bring to the workforce.

The Army PaYS Program Manager's attendance at the SVA National Conference in Colorado Springs is just one of many ways the Army demonstrates its dedication to supporting student Veterans and their career success. As the PaYS Program continues to grow, it remains a vital resource for transitioning Soldiers and Veterans seeking stable, rewarding employment after their service.

PaYS SIGNING CEREMONIES

Plantation Police Department

By: Victor Fleming

PaYS and Plantation Police Department conducted a signing ceremony at the Plantation Police Department Headquarters in Plantation, FL. The event formalized the partnership between the U.S. Army and Plantation Police Department.

The ceremony was hosted by MAJ Brett Holtzman, Executive Officer, Miami Recruiting Battalion, and Chief W. Howard Harrison, Plantation Police Department, along with special guests, Mayor Nick Sortal, Plantation, FL, and guest speaker CASA Dr. Jeraline Johnson.

Photo left - Mayor Nick Sortal addressed the audience

Photo right - CASA Dr. Jeraline Johnson spoke as a guest speaker

Photo below left - Chief W. Howard Harrison and MAJ Holtzman cut the cake

Photo below - MAJ Holtzman presents plaque to Chief W. Howard Harrison

During the ceremony, Chief W. Howard Harrison, stated "The Army PaYS Program is a shining example of how organizations can work together to create opportunities that benefit both, our community and those who have courageously served our nation. The discipline, leadership, and commitment to excellence that Soldiers bring to the table align perfectly with the values we uphold in law enforcement."

To better provide public safety services to residents of the City of Plantation, the Plantation Police Department is a full-service law enforcement agency dedicated to providing the highest level of service possible to our community. The department is one of a few select agencies to have earned accreditation, from both the international accrediting agency, the Commission on Accreditation for Law enforcement Agencies (CALEA) and the State of Florida accrediting agency Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA).

City of Richmond Signing Ceremony

By: Velvett Jenkins

Hosted in City Hall of downtown Richmond, VA, the City of Richmond announced their partnership with the US Army. Lincoln Saunders, Chief Operating Officer, City of Richmond and LTG David Francis, Deputy Commanding General, TRADOC, signed the ceremonial document. Richmond Police Department's Honor Guard presented the Colors, and a soulful rendition of the National Anthem was sung by Ms. Maureisha Logan, volunteer. Special guest included CASA Mike Flanagan (Virginia - South) and Richard Edwards, Chief of Police, Richmond Police Department.

During his remarks, LTG Francis said, "The Army can't thank the City of Richmond enough for your advocacy and support to our Soldiers and Veterans. This partnership for the City of Richmond provides an incredible opportunity for our Soldiers transitioning to the Civilian sector. I am excited not only for the Soldiers, but the City of Richmond, for all the talent this partnership will bring to your workforce."

Mr. Saunders shared, "It is our priority as a community to build a workforce that is built off the values of accountability, teamwork, respect and service. There is no better source for recruitment than those Veterans who are transitioning back to Civilian life and looking for the next phase of their career."

CASA Mike Flanagan ended the ceremony with his remarks sharing, "I am thrilled to be at this ceremony because I was a resident here in Richmond and my ties go back even further. This partnership is about opening a channel for transitioning military, and helping Soldiers connect with jobs. The Army shares with recruits and their parents that, not only will we train you, but when you decide to retire, we will help you find your next career."

Following all remarks, LTG Francis and Mr. Saunders signed the ceremonial memorandum of agreement and participated in the cake cutting to seal the partnership.

Photo above left - LTG Francis shared his remarks

Photo above right - Mr. Saunders addressed the audience

Photo far left - CASA Flanagan, guest speaker, shared excitement about the partnership

Photo left - The PaYS Marketing Team join LTG Francis, Mr. Saunders, CASA Mike Flanagan, and Richard Edwards, Chief of Police, City of Richmond Police Department following the ceremony.

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles

By: Crancena Ross

The Richmond Recruiting Battalion and the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) celebrated a major milestone with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), formalizing a new partnership under the PaYS program. The ceremony, held at the Virginia DMV headquarters, featured key remarks from LTC Brandon Lundgren, Commander, Richmond Recruiting Battalion, Mr. Gerald F. Lackey, Commissioner, Virginia DMV, and Mr. Michael Flanagan, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA) (Virginia - South).

LTC Lundgren spoke about bridging the gap between military service and Civilian employment. "This partnership with the Virginia DMV will provide valuable opportunities for Soldiers after their military service" he said. Commissioner Lackey expressed his pride in the partnership, emphasizing the community benefits. "It's an honor to be part of this program, knowing that the DMV will gain some of the most highly trained and disciplined individuals," he said. "This collaboration is an investment in DMV and our community."

Mr. Flanagan, the guest speaker, highlighted the mutual advantages of the partnership. "It's a win-win for everyone involved," he noted. "The PaYS Program offers employers a unique opportunity to hire highly skilled individuals, and it's a free program that benefits both the Soldiers and the community." The final speaker, COL Arnold, Chief of Transportation for the U.S. Army, stressed the importance of community partnerships. "This agreement will allow Soldiers to bring their skills forward while providing the DMV with confident, highly trained employees ready to make an impact." The ceremony concluded with LTC Lundgren and Commissioner Lackey signing the ceremonial documents and cutting of the cake to solidify the partnership. "

Photo above left - Mr. Gerald F. Lackey (right,) Commissioner of the Virginia DMV and LTC Brandon Lundgren, Commander of the Richmond Recruiting Battalion with the PaYS Certificate

Photo far left - Mr. Michael Flanagan, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA)

Photo left - Mr. Javell Bullard, Army PaYS Administrator, Mr. Michael Flanagan, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for Richmond, VA., Command Sergeant Major, Kenneth E Hood lll, Ms. Crancena Ross, Army PaYS Marketing Analyst, COL William Arnold, 34th Chief of Transportation, Mr. Gerald F. Lackey, Commissioner of the Virginia DMV, LTC Brandon Lundgren, Commander of the Richmond Recruiting Battalion, Mr. Antonio Johnson, Army PaYS Program Manager, Mr. Timothy Bilbrey, Human Resources, Richmond Department of Motor Vehicle and Ms. Roselyn Brown, Talent Acquisition Manager, Richmond Department Of Motor Vehicles.

A Big Thank You to these Partners Celebrating their January PaYS Anniversaries:

HCA 10 Jan-02 St. Petersburg Police Dept. 15-Jan-03 Vecellio Group, Inc. 9-Jan-04 Waste Management 7-Jan-05 Hernando County Sheriff's Office 3-Jan-06 Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. 17-Jan-06 Pasco Sheriff's Office 17-Jan-06 Kentucky State Police 17-Jan-06 YRC Freight 23-Jan-06 SecTek, Inc. 19-Jan-07 CoxCom Inc. dba Cox Communications Arizona 19-Jan-07 Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office 19-Jan-07 West Corporation 12-Jan-08 Fugro, Inc. 16-Jan-08 Dedicated Logistics, Inc. 19-Jan-08 Mustang Machinery Company dba/Mustang Cat 28-Jan-08 EMC Corporation 31-Jan-08 Ferrara Fire Apparatus, Inc. 8-Jan-09 Virginia Beach Police Department 8-Jan-09 Comcast Cable Communications, Inc. 20-Jan-09 Sacramento PD 20-Jan-09 Oak Ridge Associated Universities 20-Jan-09 URS 20-Jan-09 1st Mariner Bancorp 20-Jan-09 Houston Pizza Venture 20-Jan-09 JPMorgan Chase & Co., Credit Services Division 19-Jan-10 Commonwealth of PR 4-Jan-11 NMTC d/b/a Matco Tools 4-Jan-11 Beam Mack Sales & Services 18-Jan-11 Trilogy Health Services, LLC 19-Jan-11 Mass Transportation Authority 28-Jan-11 Total Quality Logistics, LLC 7-Jan-13 Kennametal Inc. 28-Jan-13 Facebook, Inc. 3-Jan-14 NTT DATA, INC. 4-Jan-14 City of Springfield 27-Jan-14 Garden Ridge, LP 27-Jan-14 Cooper Tire & Rubber Company 27-Jan-14 Cloud Peak Engery 5-Jan-15 Commercial Metal Company 5-Jan-15 Little Tikes 18-Jan-16 Sharp Transportation 27-Jan-16 Sports 1 Marketing, LLC 27-Jan-16 San Antonio Police Department 6-Jan-17 Herc Rentals 6-Jan-17 The Nebraska Medical Center 6-Jan-17 Aubrey Silvey Enterprise, Incorporated 6-Jan-17 Florida Department of Corrections 23-Jan-17 Quality Tire Company 23-Jan-17 City of Salisbury, Maryland 23-Jan-17 HealthCare Services 30-Jan-17 GlobalTranz 30-Jan-17 PAJCO, Inc. / Rhodes 101 30-Jan-17 New Jersey Transit Corporation 30-Jan-17 Mettler Toledo 30-Jan-17 Indeed, Inc. 5-Jan-18 SOS International, LLC 23-Jan-18 Giant Eagle, Inc. 23-Jan-18 Allegheny Health Network 23-Jan-18 Prestige Home Care, Inc. dba Home Instead Senior Care 23-Jan-18 Keller Logistics Group, Inc. 22-Jan-19 DARCARS 22-Jan-19 Cianbro Corporation 22-Jan-19 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin 31-Jan-19 Midland Engineering Company, Inc. 31-Jan-19 Inter-Con Security Systems, Inc. 31-Jan-19 Purdy Mobility Group 7-Jan-20 Sonsray, Inc. 7-Jan-20 Bay & Bay Transportation 7-Jan-20 Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners 6-Jan-22 JTs Automotive Group 10-Jan-22 New York Life Hawaii 7-Jan-22 Change Healthcare Operations, LLC 11-Jan-22 GAF 6-Jan-22 Security Industry Specialists, Inc. 11-Jan-22 M.I.B. Security Group 14-Jan-22 TLG Peterbilt 21-Jan-22 Beyer Graphics 25-Jan-22 Greenville (NC) Police Department 26-Jan-22 South Burlington Vermont Police 27-Jan-22 Bristol Management Services, Inc. 3-Jan-22 GlobalFoundries 27-Jan-22 Southern Crown Partners, LLC 31-Jan-22 The City of Monroe 21-Jan-22 PCL Construction Enterprises 22-Jan-22 Pride Industries 9-Jan-23 Camin Cargo Controls 16-Jan-23 Quality Custom Distribution 11-Jan-23 Saint Paul Police Department 4-Jan-24 New Orleans Police Department 5-Jan-24 MESA Natural Gas Solutions LLC 12-Jan-24 City of Killeen, TX 18-Jan-24 Pro Services 19-Jan-24 Truly Nolen of America, Inc. 19-Jan-24 Sila Services LLC 22-Jan-24 City of Elizabeth City 23-Jan-24 AtlantiCare Health System 29-Jan-24 Coca Cola Bottling Company UNITED 30-Jan-24 RGNext, LLC 31-Jan-24

Archived newsletters - https://www.armypays.com/newsletter/archive/Newsletter_list.html

To contact us please email usarmy.knox.hqda-asa-mra.mbx.Payshelpdesk@army.mil