PURPLE HEART DAY
By Ryan Streater
Purple Heart Day is observed each year on August 7 to honor the brave service members who were wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The Purple Heart is one of the nation's most recognized military decorations and stands as a symbol of sacrifice, courage, and dedication to our country. This day gives us the opportunity to reflect on the strength and resilience of those who gave so much in defense of our freedoms. Purple Heart Day serves as a reminder of those who placed themselves in harm's way to protect the freedoms we enjoy every day.
HONORING PURPLE HEART DAY: THE STORY OF PURPLE HEART RECIPIENT PERCELL PHILLIPS
By Frank McNeil
In honor of Purple Heart Day, PaYS Marketer Frank McNeil had the privilege of interviewing Percell Phillips, a Purple Heart recipient and U.S. Army Veteran who served his country for 20 years. Phillips' journey from military service to a successful civilian career exemplifies the resilience, courage, and determination that define our nation's Veterans. As we recognize Purple Heart Day, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifice, selfless service, and unwavering commitment demonstrated by those who have answered the nation's call.
Can you share the story behind how you earned the Purple Heart?
July 27th, 2003 - Ramadi, Iraq
"I was a 19D serving as a Quick Reaction Force in Al Anbar Province for our maneuver units. I served as one of the Humvee gunners on QRF when enemy forces initiated an ambush on a friendly patrol in the middle of the city. We immediately rolled into action toward the patrol's location. During the firefight, my orders were to suppress the enemy forces as we were in a flanking position. I continued providing suppressive fire when a single round grazed the side of my head just millimeters below my helmet. Only able to see out of one eye, I continued firing until the patrol made it safely out of the area. I sustained a wound across my forehead to my right temple."
How has receiving the Purple Heart impacted your life and perspective?
"Receiving the Purple Heart changed the way I look at both my personal and my professional life. Personally, it gave me a much deeper appreciation for life and the people that I care the most about. I was a young Corporal with a spouse and a very young son at the time, and being wounded on my first deployment changed how I approached leadership. I put greater emphasis on training, preparation and ensuring that I and my Soldiers were always physically and mentally resilient. What really mattered to me was to ensure that I got my Soldiers home safely."
In what ways can society better support and appreciate the sacrifices made by Purple Heart recipients and Veterans?
"I don't think that Purple Heart recipients and most Veterans are looking for thanks and recognition. Society can best support us by looking beyond the medals and service and recognizing the person behind them. A thank you is always appreciated, but access to quality healthcare, meaningful employment opportunities and the resources they need for success after their service is what we need. Appreciation is meaningful, but lasting support makes the greatest difference."
How did your leadership role in the Army prepare you for your current role at TWC Services?
"My experiences as a combat veteran, Army recruiter, and leader have given me much more than logistics management skills. I've supervised teams, managed equipment, maintained accountability, and learned how to solve problems under pressure."
Behind every Purple Heart is a story of sacrifice, resilience and an individual who answered our nation's call. On this Purple Heart Day, let us remember those who paid that price, honor those who didn't make it home, and recognize the Veterans who continue serving their communities long after they have hung up the uniform.
ARMY VETERAN TRAVIS THOMAS CONTINUES SERVICE WITH TEHAMA COUNTY
By Roy Kidwell
Army Veteran Travis M. Thomas understands the value of service, leadership, and teamwork. A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Thomas joined the Army to continue his family's legacy of military service while fulfilling his dream of playing football as a running back for Army's Black Knights. Commissioned as an Armor Officer, he served from 1996 to 2001, leading Soldiers at Fort Carson, CO.
During his Army career, Thomas served as a Platoon Leader and was recognized by senior leaders for his exceptional leadership, planning abilities, and commitment to mission success. As a Support Platoon Leader, he managed personnel, equipment, and logistics operations supporting an Armor Battalion's worldwide contingency mission. His leaders described him as an outstanding officer with unlimited potential and a proven ability to lead teams through complex challenges.
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1LT Travis Thomas with his Armor crew
Following his transition from military service, Thomas found himself missing two things that had been central to his Army experience: a strong team environment and the opportunity to continue serving others. He eventually found both when he joined PaYS partner Tehama County Veteran Services Office. Today, he helps Veterans access the benefits they have earned through their military service, providing guidance and support to those navigating the often-complex benefits process.
"Now that I am helping Veterans get their benefits in the Veteran Services Office for the County, I feel a sense of purpose again that I was missing in my previous careers," Thomas explained.
Reflecting on how the Army prepared him for civilian employment, Thomas credits his experience leading Soldiers and managing teams as an Armor Officer. The lessons he learned in uniform continue to guide him today: take the harder right over the easier wrong, do the right thing when no one is looking, lead by example, and never be afraid to begin difficult tasks.
His advice to Soldiers considering opportunities with PaYS partners is simple: take full advantage of the program. Thomas believes PaYS helps connect Veterans with employers who value military experience and often provide a familiar environment where Veterans can quickly build relationships and succeed. He notes that many of the leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills developed during military service can be difficult to communicate in a résumé or interview, making programs like PaYS especially valuable.
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Travis Thomas VSO Tehama County California
As a proud Army Veteran and Tehama County employee, Thomas continues to serve others long after leaving active duty. Through his work assisting fellow Veterans and his support of the PaYS Program, he demonstrates that the values learned in military service can continue to make a lasting impact in communities across the nation.
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BEYOND THE STRIP: ALFREDO HARRIS REINFORCES PARTNERSHIPS IN LAS VEGAS
By Alfredo Harris
Las Vegas is known for its bright lights, but for PaYS Marketer Alfredo Harris, the trip highlighted the lasting impact of strong partnerships. Throughout his visit, Alfredo reconnected with local partners, strengthened relationships with Army leaders, and participated in a change of command ceremony, reinforcing the PaYS mission and its commitment to supporting Soldiers as they prepare for successful civilian careers.
The trip began with a visit to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), which quickly became one of the highlights of Alfredo's time in the city. What started as a routine check-in turned into a sit-down training session with Officer Alfredo Lara-Marquez and David Deleon. The discussion reinforced the strength of LVMPD partnership with PaYS and systems training.
The trip also included an engagement with local miltary leadership including Marketing Officer MAJ Nicholas Brocato, where discussions focused on systems training and expanding awareness of the PaYS Program throughout the area. They also discussed how PaYS can serve as a valuable recruiting and retention resource while supporting Soldiers as they prepare for civilian career opportunities.
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Alfredo with Officer Lara-Marquez
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Alfredo with MAJ Brocato
Photo bottom right -
BG Sara E Dudley passing the guidon to incoming BDE CDR COL Joseph Z. Wells during the Change of Command
 Alfredo also attended a change of command ceremony, which marked the formal transition of leadership and provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships within the Army community. The ceremony underscored the importance of continuity in leadership and provided an opportunity for PaYS to maintain relationships with Army leaders and remain engaged with the military community.
Alfredo also conducted visits with other local partners Goodwill Southern Nevada, CalPortland, and ZipRealty to reestablish a foundation for continued partnership and future collaboration. By sharing current program updates, Alfredo ensured partners better understood how PaYS supports Soldiers as they prepare for civilian career opportunities.
The visit concluded with Alfredo strengthening relationships across both the military and civilian communities. From participating in the change of command ceremony to reconnecting with employer partners, each engagement reinforced the PaYS mission of supporting Soldiers as they prepare for successful civilian careers while strengthening the partnerships that make the program successful.
PAYS TEAM STRENGTHENS COLLABORATION DURING MID-YEAR TRAINING
By Ryan Streater
 The PaYS Team came together for its annual mid-year training, led by Program Manager, Antonio Johnson. The purpose of the training was to review program performance, strengthen teamwork, improve communication and ensure staff members and marketers remain aligned with the program's mission and goals. Throughout the week, the team participated in briefings, practical exercises and team-building activities designed to encourage collaboration and prepare the team for continued success during the remainder of the year.
The first day began with icebreaker activities that allowed team members to connect and learn more about one another. Antonio then provided an opening brief outlining the purpose of the training, expectations for the week and the priorities moving forward. The team also completed practical exercises focused on improving daily operations and addressing common challenges. Staff members reviewed current program metrics and discussed progress, performance trends and opportunities for improvement. The day concluded with a team bowling event, providing an informal setting for team members to build relationships and strengthen camaraderie.
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Roy Kidwell delivers a briefing
Photos right - The PaYS Marketing team
On the second day, staff members and marketers delivered briefings covering their respective areas of responsibility. The presentations provided updates on ongoing initiatives, accomplishments, best practices and future priorities. Team members were also able to exchange ideas, ask questions and identify ways to improve coordination across the program. These discussions helped ensure that everyone had a shared understanding of current operations and how each team member contributes to the overall success of PaYS.
The third day focused on team-building exercises that encouraged communication, problem-solving and cooperation. The activities challenged participants to work together, recognize individual strengths and develop solutions as a team. These exercises reinforced the importance of trust, accountability and collaboration when supporting Soldiers, employers and Army organizations.
The mid-year training provided the PaYS team with an opportunity to reflect on its progress, strengthen professional relationships and establish priorities for the remainder of the year. Through meaningful discussions, practical exercises and team-building activities, the team left the training better connected and prepared to continue advancing the PaYS mission. The team remains committed to connecting Soldiers with valuable career opportunities and strengthening partnerships with employers across the nation.
THE WALDINGER CORPORATION PARTNERS WITH PAYS PROGRAM TO SUPPORT SOLDIER AND VETERAN EMPLOYMENT
By Roy Kidwell
The PaYS Program welcomed The Waldinger Corporation as its newest employer partner during a signing ceremony held on July 9, 2026, at the company's Corporate Headquarters in Des Moines, IA. The event celebrated a shared commitment to connecting Soldiers and Veterans with meaningful civilian careers while strengthening the workforce through one of the nation's leading mechanical, electrical, plumbing, sheet metal, and building services companies.
 The Waldinger Corporation has been a leader in mechanical, electrical, plumbing, sheet metal, and building service solutions for more than a century. As an employee-owned company, Waldinger has built its reputation on technical excellence, innovation, and developing highly skilled professionals, making Soldiers and Veterans a natural fit for its workforce.
The ceremony began with the posting of the colors and the playing of the National Anthem, followed by opening remarks emphasizing the partnership between the Iowa Army National Guard (IARNG) and The Waldinger Corporation. Leaders from both organizations gathered to formalize their shared commitment to supporting Soldiers and Veterans in their transition from military service to meaningful civilian careers while strengthening the nation's workforce through collaborative employment opportunities.
COL Randall Stanford, Director of Human Resources for the IARNG, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of the PaYS Program in connecting Soldiers with employers who recognize the leadership, technical expertise, and professionalism developed through military service.
"Soldiers can select a partner organization and are guaranteed a job interview. It's a win-win opportunity for everyone. Soldiers gain valuable skills and a clear path to a civilian career, and our partners gain access to a pool of exceptionally qualified candidates," said COL Stanford.
Derek Hileman, Waldinger Service President, addressed attendees on behalf of the company and participated in the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement. "The U.S. Army and Waldinger are the two greatest organizations I've had the privilege of being a part of, and together they have shaped the majority of my professional career. I'm proud to support the men and women who have served our country by helping them build meaningful, long-term careers at Waldinger. Helping Soldiers transition into rewarding careers isn't just a job, it's a mission I'm honored to support and be a part of," said Hileman. COL Stanford then presented Mr. Hileman with a commemorative PaYS partnership plaque recognizing The Waldinger Corporation's commitment to supporting Soldiers and Veterans through the PaYS Program.
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Mr. Hileman and COL Stanford take photo with the PaYS partnership plaque to share partnership
Photo right - COL Stanford gives remarks
The ceremony concluded with a ceremonial cake cutting, celebrating the beginning of the new partnership. As one of more than 1,200 PaYS partners nationwide, The Waldinger Corporation joins a distinguished network of employers committed to investing in America's Soldiers and Veterans. Through this partnership, Soldiers are guaranteed a job interview for positions matching their skills and qualifications, while Waldinger gains access to a pipeline of highly trained, mission-ready talent. As The Waldinger Corporation and the IARNG move forward together, this partnership stands as a model for how employers can honor military service while building a stronger, more skilled workforce for the future.
A BIG THANK YOU TO THESE PARTNERS CELEBRATING THEIR AUGUST PAYS ANNIVERSARIES:
The Pepsi Bottling Group 15-Aug-00
LAPD 22-Aug-02
Charlotte-Mecklenburg PD 23-Aug-02
JX Enterprises, Inc. 29-Aug-02
Washington State Patrol 4-Aug-03
Rockford Police Department 4-Aug-03
City of Naples, Florida 15-Aug-03
Richmond Police Department 25-Aug-03
Scottsdale Police Department 26-Aug-05
American Systems Corporation 14-Aug-06
New Jersey Basketball LLc d/b/a Brooklyn Nets Basketball 8-Aug-07
General Motors Corporation 22-Aug-07
Kansas Dept of Social & Rehabilitation Services 22-Aug-07
Community Asphalt Corporation 22-Aug-07
Canam Steel Corporation 13-Aug-08
Oshkosh Corporation 13-Aug-08
Life Time Fitness, Inc. 17-Aug-08
City of Riverside, CA 7-Aug-09
Citrus Heights Police Department 12-Aug-09
Hawthorne Machinery Company 3-Aug-11
New Horizons Computer Learning Centers of Southern California 14-Aug-13
Performance Contractors 21-Aug-13
HOLT CAT 21-Aug-13
Tesla Motors 20-Aug-15
City of Joplin 2-Aug-16
City of Rock Spring 2-Aug-16
Penrose-St Francis Health Services 2-Aug-16
National Association of Community Health Center 8-Aug-16
Central Bank & Trust Co. 8-Aug-16
Corrections Corporation of America 19-Aug-16
Perdue Farms Inc. 19-Aug-16
Willis-Knighton Health System 29-Aug-16
Eastern Maine Healthcare 4-Aug-17
NOW Foods 11-Aug-17
City of Dublin 21-Aug-17
Mountaire Farms, Inc. 21-Aug-17
Kellerstrass Enterprise, Inc. 21-Aug-17
City of Chattanooga 28-Aug-17
Memorial Hospital d.b.a. Memorial Regional Health 28-Aug-17
NU Look Home Design 28-Aug-17
Windstream Holdings Inc. 28-Aug-17
Raven Transport Company 28-Aug-17
Superior Service Transport, Inc. 28-Aug-17
Main Street Renewal, LLC 28-Aug-17
G&P Trucking Company, Inc. 28-Aug-17
MainGate Inc. 28-Aug-17
Virgin Island Police Department 6-Aug-19
Geisinger System Services 6-Aug-19
Grande Aire Services, Inc. 6-Aug-19
MEARS Destination Services, Inc. 12-Aug-19
ANS Advanced Network Services, LLC 23-Aug-19
Nevada County 23-Aug-19
PolyOne Corporation 23-Aug-19
Fabick Cat 23-Aug-19
Thompson Gray, Inc. 23-Aug-19
Bausch Health US, LLC 23-Aug-19
Veterinary Specialists of North America 23-Aug-19
System Application & Technologies, Inc. 23-Aug-19
Home Team Pest Defense 23-Aug-19
MassMutual Commonwealth 23-Aug-19
Rocky Brands, Inc. 23-Aug-19
West Shore Home 27-Aug-19
Motorola Solutions, Inc. 27-Aug-19
Allison-Smith Company, LLC 31-Aug-20
RSW Regional Jail Authority 4-Aug-22
Pike Industries 8-Aug-22
BCH Mechanical 9-Aug-22
NPR of America, Inc. 5-Aug-22
Mooseheart 9-Aug-22
MCC, Inc. 11-Aug-22
Bi-State Development 17-Aug-22
Atlanta Police Department 28-Aug-22
Rhino Foods, Inc. 31-Aug-22
Riverside Health System 9-Aug-23
Micron Technology, Inc. 9-Aug-23
Innovative Service Technology Management Services 9-Aug-23
Tehema County 10-Aug-23
Manalapan Township 15-Aug-23
TurnPoint Services 16-Aug-23
Ames Construction 22-Aug-23
Caliber Holdings LLC 5-Aug-24
City of Richmond, VA 13-Aug-24
Texas Department of Criminal Justice 16-Aug-24
Dayton Police Department 19-Aug-24
CBRE 20-Aug-24
Hennepin County Sheriff's Office 22-Aug-24
El Paso County 29-Aug-24
New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision 07-Aug-25
The Walt Disney Company 07-Aug-25
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
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