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DECEMBER NEWSLETTER THEMES
Each year on December 7, we honor the memory of the service members and civilians whose lives were lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. This day stands as a reminder of the courage shown in the face of sudden adversity and the resilience that followed, as our nation united with a renewed sense of purpose and duty. We reflect not only on the sacrifices made that morning, but on the generations of Americans who answered the call to defend our freedom in the years that followed. Their legacy continues to guide us, reminding us to serve with integrity, honor, and steadfast commitment.
On December 13, we celebrate the 389th birthday of the Army National Guard, a force that has stood ready to serve our communities and our nation since 1636. From responding to local emergencies and natural disasters to deploying alongside active-duty Soldiers around the world, the National Guard represents dedication, versatility, and service rooted in the communities they protect. Today, we honor the Citizen-Soldiers who balance civilian life with military commitment, and we recognize the essential role the Guard continues to play in our nation's defense and support at home and abroad.
HONORING 389 YEARS OF SERVICE: THE ARMY NATIONAL GUARD'S ENDURING LEGACY
By Roy Kidwell
On December 13, 2025, the Army National Guard marks its 389th birthday, celebrating nearly four centuries of service to both state and nation. Established in 1636, the Army National Guard is America's oldest military organization, built on a proud tradition of Citizen-Soldiers who protect their communities in times of war, disaster, and crisis.
This year, celebrations across the country will highlight that enduring commitment. In Little Rock, Arkansas, the Arkansas Army National Guard Foundation will host its 3rd annual Army National Guard Birthday Gala and Awards Ceremony, honoring Congressman Stephen A. "Steve" Womack, retired COL of the Arkansas Army National Guard, with the MG Harold L. Gwatney Award for Military Service. The event raises funds supporting Guard families through scholarships, youth programs, survivor care, and emergency assistance.
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Arkansas National Guard Foundation Birthday Gala and Awards
In honor of the Army National Guard's birthday on December 13, the National WWII Museum in New Orleans will offer free admission to all Army National Guard service members and Veterans. The initiative aims to celebrate the Army National Guard's rich history and recognize the dedication and service of those who have worn its uniform.
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National WWII Museum, New Orleans
In Oregon, the Army National Guard's birthday celebration has become a cherished tradition. The 388th birthday was celebrated in December 2024, and this year, the Oregon Army National Guard is poised to continue that tradition with a ceremony on Friday, December 12, 2025. This year, BG Jenifer Pardy, Director of the Joint Staff, will preside over the ceremony. Across the nation, Army National Guard units nationwide will host ceremonies, community events, and online tributes under hashtags like #NationalGuardBirthday and #GuardStrong.
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Oregon Army National Guard Birthday Cake cutting Ceremony
As we celebrate this milestone, the Army PaYS Program proudly joins in recognizing the Army National Guard for 389 years of dedication and resilience. Through its partnership with the Army National Guard, PaYS connects Soldiers and Veterans with career opportunities that build on the leadership and discipline they've developed in uniform, continuing a tradition of service that strengthens communities across America.
Happy 389th Birthday, Army National Guard!
PEARL HARBOR REMEMBRANCE: HONORING COURAGE AND PRESERVING FREEDOM
By Gabriel Street
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day serves as a solemn reminder of the tremendous sacrifices made on that day. The attack not only tested America's strength but also revealed the extraordinary courage and resilience of its people. Sailors, Soldiers, and civilians alike faced unimaginable chaos, and many risked and gave their lives to protect others. Their actions, marked by instinctive bravery and selfless devotion, continue to embody the enduring spirit of service and patriotism that defines the American character.
On December 7, 2025 the Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Hawaii honors those who perished and those who fought back. Wreaths are laid upon the water, bells toll in remembrance, and moments of silence are observed to pay tribute to the fallen. Of special significance, the State of Hawaii, an Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) partner, continues to play a central role in preserving the legacy of Pearl Harbor. Through its stewardship of commemorative events and ongoing support to service members transitioning into civilian careers, Hawaii helps ensure that remembrance is not only historical but also deeply connected to today's Soldiers, Veterans, and the communities they serve. These acts of remembrance ensure that the stories of Pearl Harbor's heroes are never forgotten and that future generations understand the cost of the freedoms they enjoy.
Pearl Harbor Remembrance is more than a reflection on a single day; it is a reaffirmation of the values that bind our nation together. By remembering the courage and sacrifice of those who served, we honor their legacy and strengthen our commitment to preserving peace and freedom. The events of December 7, 1941, stand as a timeless reminder that the strength of America lies not only in its might but also in its unity, resilience, and enduring spirit. As we honor this anniversary, we reaffirm our dedication to carrying forward the principles they fought to protect and to ensuring their sacrifices continue to inspire future generations.
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CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF THE ARMY PARTNERSHIP FOR YOUR SUCCESS (PaYS) PROGRAM --- A LEGACY OF SERVICE, OPPORTUNITY, AND PARTNERSHIP
By Marcus Sims
 For twenty-five years, the U.S. Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) Program has bridged the gap between military service and civilian success. What began as a forward-thinking recruiting incentive has become a nationally recognized partnership model, linking Soldiers with employers who value their discipline, leadership, and commitment to excellence.
To mark this milestone, Gena Goldsmith, Web Content Manager and one of the original members of the PaYS team, reflects on the program's evolution and lasting impact.
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Gena Goldsmith with first PaYS Program Manager, COL (R) Robert Qualls - 2010
When the PaYS Program launched in 2000, its concept was groundbreaking, connecting new recruits with civilian employers before they even entered Basic Training. The goal was simple but revolutionary: guarantee Soldiers an interview with a trusted employer once they completed their Army service.
"When the program was first introduced as a new idea to Army leaders, it was a recruiting incentive," Goldsmith recalled. "The Army was having a rough time making its recruiting mission goals. The idea of matching new recruits to employers after their term of service ended was a foreign concept. But the promise of a guaranteed interview was attractive to young recruits and helped strengthen recruiting efforts."
From the beginning, PaYS positioned itself as a pioneer in post-service care, expanding the Army's mission beyond active duty. "PaYS was a leader in taking care of Soldiers after their Army career ended," Goldsmith said. "It showed that the Army cared about their success not only during service, but also after they transitioned out."
Over the years, PaYS has evolved from a pilot program limited to Fortune 500 companies into a robust network of more than 1,000 partners across public and private sectors. What started as a tool for new recruits now includes all Soldiers, Army National Guard members, Reservists, and Veterans.
"The web application was awkward at first," Goldsmith explained. "Guidance counselors had to toggle between three screens for each recruit to select partners, and many didn't want to take the extra step. Now, Soldiers are in charge of their own future, they can select partners independently and easily."
She added, "The program began with only Fortune 500 partners and top test percentiles of first-term recruits. Today, it's open to every Soldier and Veteran, regardless of MOS or length of service. That change opened the door to so many more opportunities and truly made PaYS a program for all Soldiers."
As the workforce and military continue to evolve, the PaYS Program remains steadfast in its mission to connect service with opportunity. "PaYS will continue to be an asset to both the Army and employers," Goldsmith said. "The skills Soldiers bring are constantly evolving, and the civilian workforce benefits tremendously from their training and discipline."
Gena sees PaYS as more than just a program, it's a partnership that strengthens trust and understanding between the Army and the American people. "PaYS has evolved far beyond the recruiting incentive it started as," Gena noted. "It's now a vital bridge between military service and civilian life, bringing a Soldier's 'life-after-the-military' into focus."
When asked to share a single success story, Goldsmith didn't hesitate to highlight the program itself. "The past 25 years of the PaYS Program is the success story," she said. "Soldiers now have an Army program that truly cares about their future, and employers have a deeper appreciation for what the Army instills in its people. PaYS has strengthened the partnership bond between the military and civilian worlds."
For Goldsmith, the program's mission is deeply personal. "When I left the active-duty Army, I was frightened. I didn't have a PaYS Program to help me find a job. I would have given anything to have had what Soldiers have today."
Her words remind us that PaYS is more than a recruiting tool, it's a testament to the Army's commitment to its people, both in and out of uniform.
As PaYS celebrates 25 years of partnership, its mission endures: to ensure that every Soldier who raises their right hand not only serves their country with honor but also steps into civilian life with confidence, opportunity, and a plan for success. The PaYS Program has proven that service to country and success in life are not separate paths; they are one continuous journey of excellence, discipline, and purpose.
FROM ARMOR OFFICER TO MANAGING PARTNER: MILITARY GRIT FUELS A CAREER AT NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL
By Roy Kidwell
Kevin Kaveney, Managing Partner at Northwestern Mutual, credits his Army service and mentorship for shaping his career in financial services. A West Point graduate, he was commissioned as an Armor Officer in 1996, serving in Korea and Bosnia. "The real education came from leading soldiers," he recalls.
While stationed at Fort Carson he discovered programs like Army's Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) program and recognized their value in helping transitioning Soldiers find meaningful civilian careers. "Like serving in uniform, we find nobility in financial services. These programs equip service members with opportunities," he says.
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Kevin during tank maneuver training South Korea
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Kevin Kaveney Managing Partner Northwestern Mutual
In 2001, after deciding to leave active duty, Kevin was introduced to Northwestern Mutual and quickly embraced the entrepreneurial challenge. Recalled to service after 9/11, he later returned and thrived in a system that resonated with his military mindset. "Veterans excel in structured systems and doing uncomfortable things with discipline," he notes.
Rising through leadership roles, Kevin became Managing Partner of the Colorado Springs office in 2018. His mission today, alongside the Financial Representatives that join the Colorado Springs Network of offices, is guiding clients toward financial security, grounded in integrity, family, faith, and hard work.
He also champions transitioning programs like PaYS as a bridge between Soldiers and employers. His advice to transitioning servicemembers is to leverage their military training because discipline, resilience, and teamwork are real advantages. He encourages them to use their networks and keep reaching out until they find the right fit, and to think long term by prioritizing future stability over short-term gains. He stresses the importance of choosing proven partners that have stood the test of time and considering entrepreneurship as a rewarding path for those who want to build not only a long-lasting career, but a meaningful life.
Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI.
Kevin Francis Kaveney is a General Agent of NM.
STRENGTHENING THE SOLDIER-TO-CAREER PIPELINE: ARMY PaYS EXPANDS PARTNERSHIPS ACROSS ARIZONA
By Frank McNeil
Army PaYS Market Analyst Frank McNeil completed a strategic outreach tour across Phoenix, Tempe, Tucson, and Fort Huachuca, strengthening local partnerships and engaging Army leaders, ROTC programs, and PaYS partner organizations. His efforts reinforced the Army's commitment to creating seamless pathways from military service to meaningful civilian careers for Soldiers and Cadets.
The tour continued at the Phoenix Army Recruiting Battalion, where McNeil met with Battalion Commander LTC Steven Webber, CSM Holton, MAJ Moises Ochoa, and the Battalion staff. Their discussions focused on regional industry partnership opportunities and the importance of introducing PaYS to Soldiers as early as the enlistment stage. They also explored collaborating at upcoming recruiting events to highlight career pathways for Soldiers and Cadets.
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Frank meets with the Phoenix Recruiting Battalion Command Team
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Frank briefs PaYS to Soldiers
McNeil then visited the Phoenix Army Reserve Center, where he briefed MSG Felix Camacho-Lopez and leaders from the Army Reserve and training commands. He shared partner lists, marketing materials, and guidance to help Reserve Soldiers use PaYS to support their civilian career goals while maintaining their military commitments.
Later, at Arizona State University, Frank met with Professor of Military Science COL Ryan Whipple and Recruiting Operations Officer SFC Aaron Dempsey to reinforce PaYS as a key talent and leadership pipeline. They discussed strategies to encourage Cadets to enroll in the program and ASU's efforts to identify potential PaYS partners. Plans are now underway for a spring semester PaYS briefing for Cadets.
Throughout the trip, Frank also met with several PaYS partners to strengthen hiring pipelines for Soldiers and Veterans. At Swift Transportation Services, Inc., he spoke with Apprenticeship Manager Bart Fitzpatrick about recruitment strategies and enhancing outreach through Reserve units, recruiters, and TAP  centers. He then visited the Arizona Department of Corrections, Reentry & Rehabilitation, where Talent Acquisition Administrators Mayra Hernandez-Gallardo and Shatema Gresham discussed expanding career pathways in public safety and corrections. In Tucson, McNeil met with Military Outreach Coordinator Matthew Langseth, city leadership, and staff to explore opportunities that align Soldiers' skills with local workforce needs and community development efforts. The visit concluded with a tour of City Hall and a briefing on Tucson's upcoming 250th anniversary.
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Frank with Mr. Bartholomew Fitzpatrick
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Frank visits with the Human Resources Division, City of Tucson, AZ
Frank's trip concluded with a visit to the Fort Huachuca Transition Assistance Program (TAP), where he met with TAP Transition Services Manager Ms. Leda Coleman and her team. Frank provided a PaYS briefing which sparked robust discussion on enhancing Soldier registration prior to separation.
Through strong collaboration with Army commands, universities, employers, and city leadership, the PaYS program continues to bridge military talent with civilian opportunity, ensuring America's Soldiers transition with dignity, purpose, and a clear path to career success.
ARMY PaYS PARTNERSHIP SIGNING CEREMONY WITH BOMBARDIER: A MILESTONE FOR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND NATIONAL SECURITY
By Frank McNeil
The Army PaYS Program officially welcomed Bombardier, a global leader in aerospace innovation as its newest partner during a signing ceremony held at Bombardier's Wichita headquarters. The event brought together military personnel, local officials, and industry leaders, all eager to witness this significant expansion of PaYS and the long-term opportunities it will create for Soldiers and the community. The ceremony opened with a powerful display of military tradition as Wichita State University Army ROTC Cadets posted the colors with precision and professionalism, setting a dignified tone for this milestone in workforce development and community collaboration.
The attendees were then treated to a breathtaking performance of the National Anthem by Mr. Caleb Frouse, a talented vocalist from Wichita Tech. His rendition was met with applause and a moment of reflection as the audience appreciated the significance of the partnership between the military and the private sector. As the ceremony unfolded, several key figures took to the stage to express their support and enthusiasm for the partnership. First to speak was LTC Adam Pawlosky, Commander of the Recruiting and Retention Battalion for the Kansas Army National Guard. LTC Pawloski highlighted the importance of initiatives like the Army PaYS program, which connect Soldiers to valuable career opportunities post-service, offering them a seamless transition into civilian life. He praised Bombardier's commitment to supporting our nation's veterans and expressed his excitement for the future impact of this collaboration.
Following LTC Pawloski's remarks, Mayor Lily Wu brought an especially heartfelt message to the occasion. Mayor Wu, a strong advocate for community engagement and economic development in Wichita, passionately praised the partnership between Bombardier and the Army. She spoke about the profound benefits of military-civilian collaborations, particularly in a city like Wichita, where aerospace innovation is a key pillar of the local economy.
"Wichita has long been known as the Air Capital of the World, and today, we add another chapter to that legacy," Mayor Wu said. "The Army PaYS program and Bombardier's leadership in this partnership ensure that our Veterans have access to the tools they need to succeed and thrive in the workforce. This collaboration will make a lasting impact not only on our Veterans but also on the future of Wichita and the defense industry as a whole."
Steve Patrick, the Vice President of Defense at Bombardier, spoke about the company's dedication to fostering a strong, capable workforce. Patrick emphasized that the partnership with the Army is not just about creating jobs, it's about investing in the skills and talents of our service members. "As a global leader in aviation, Bombardier recognizes the incredible potential that military Veterans bring to the workforce. This partnership is an opportunity to create meaningful careers for those who have served our country, and in doing so, we contribute to the advancement of our industry and the nation as a whole."
Following the remarks, the Army and Bombardier formally signed the partnership agreement, solidifying their shared commitment to helping Veterans transition into meaningful careers within the aerospace industry. To conclude the event, LTC Pawlosky delivered the oath of enlistment to seven new Future Soldiers joining the Kansas Army National Guard, marking an inspiring finale to the ceremony.
The Wichita partnership ceremony underscored the strength of collaborations and the enduring value Veterans bring to the workforce. Through this new agreement, Bombardier and the Army PaYS Program are demonstrating how coordinated efforts can support innovation, economic growth, and meaningful career opportunities for those who have served. Together, they reaffirm a shared commitment to empowering Veterans and ensuring Soldiers are supported well beyond their military service.
TOTAL SAFETY USA JOINS ARMY PaYS IN NEW STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
By Victor Fleming
The U.S. Army PaYS Program and Total Safety USA marked a significant milestone with a formal signing ceremony held at Total Safety's Gonzales, LA facility. Hosted by LTC Nicholas James, Commander of the Baton Rouge Recruiting Battalion, the event celebrated the launch of a strategic partnership aimed at expanding career opportunities for Soldiers. Total Safety's Chief Executive Officer, Brad Clark, joined company representatives to honor the occasion. The ceremony opened with a presentation of the colors by the Istrouma High School JROTC Color Guard, setting a dignified tone for the event.
Total Safety is recognized as one of the largest global providers of industrial safety solutions, dedicated to ensuring the safe well-being of workers worldwide. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of integrated products and services built around four pillars: Technology, Equipment, Compliance, and People. Total Safety serves a wide array of high-risk industries, including energy, petrochemical, utilities, mining, and manufacturing, operating in over 20 countries globally.
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LTC Nicholas James with Istrouma High school JROTC Color Guard
Opening the remarks, Total Safety CEO Brad Clark emphasized how the company's mission aligns with the strengths Soldiers bring to the workforce. "We're very proud to begin this partnership with Army PaYS," Mr. Clark said. "Anywhere there's a large workforce performing critical and often hazardous work, you'll find Total Safety. Our mission is to keep that workforce safe. Service in the military in all its forms is the ideal experience for a great teammate in our organization. Commitment, discipline, training to standards, and the ability to think quickly and act calmly are exactly what we value at Total Safety. Adding jobs and creating opportunities for those coming out of the military is truly a perfect win-win."
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LTC James signs the ceremonial Army PaYS certificate as Mr Clark looks on.
As the ceremony continued, LTC James emphasized the importance of partnerships like this one in supporting Soldiers beyond their time in uniform. "The PaYS Program gives reassurance to our recruits that their experience in the Army is valued by the community," said LTC James. "It provides our Soldiers transitioning out of the force an opportunity to learn to navigate the civilian workforce, making it a straight-up win-win situation for both of us. I'm very thankful for Total Safety and their decision to join this partnership. Leaving the Army can be a stressful challenge, but our close partners help ease that burden on our Soldiers. I promise you this: the Soldiers we have are sharp, motivated, and resilient, and they will not let you down."
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LTC James and Mr. Clark share in the celebration by cutting the ceremonial cake
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PaYS Marketer Victor with Gonzales Police Chief Sherman Jackson, Ascension Parish Sheriff Bobby Webre, Brad Clark, and LTC Nicholas James.
The ceremony was more than a symbolic gesture; it clearly demonstrated Total Safety's commitment to supporting Soldiers while strengthening its own workforce with proven talent. By partnering with the Army PaYS Program, Total Safety is investing in a steady pipeline of professionals whose character, discipline, and dedication reflect the Army Values. This collaboration is a true win-win: Veterans gain meaningful career opportunities as they transition into civilian life, and Total Safety gains exceptional teammates ready to advance its mission of protecting those who work in high-risk environments.
A BIG THANK YOU TO THESE PARTNERS CELEBRATING THEIR DECEMBER PaYS ANNIVERSARIES:
Florida Highway Patrol 2-Dec-05
San Diego Police Department 2-Dec-05
Harold Zeigler Auto Group 2-Dec-05
Orlando Utilities Commission 8-Dec-05
Empire Southwest, LLC 8-Dec-05
Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office 8-Dec-05
Gully Transportation, Inc. 11-Dec-06
Florida Power and Light Company 11-Dec-06
FPL Energy, LLC 11-Dec-06
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) America 11-Dec-06
Memphis Police Department 11-Dec-06
Norfolk Southern Corporation 11-Dec-06
Shelby County Sheriff's Office 15-Dec-06
Raytheon Company 15-Dec-06
Steinhafels, Inc. 6-Dec-07
AAR Aircraft Services, Inc. 14-Dec-07
Harris County Sheriff's Office (TX) 14-Dec-07
Lubbock Police Department 12-Dec-08
Yale-New Haven Hospital 12-Dec-08
Richland County Sheriff's Dept. 7-Dec-09
Cisco Systems, Inc. 1-Dec-10
Mercy Medical Center 1-Dec-10
City of Camuy, PR 8-Dec-10
Weber Stone Company 8-Dec-10
Aviall, Inc. 10-Dec-10
Reliant Medical Group (formerly Fallon Clinic and Fallon Foundation) 21-Dec-11
Arrow Strategies, LLC 21-Dec-11
Office Depot, Inc. 21-Dec-11
FirstGroup America, Inc. 21-Dec-11
Quaker City Motor Parts Co. 21-Dec-11
VSP Global 21-Dec-11
Maines Paper and Food Service 21-Dec-11
C.R. England 27-Dec-11
John Morrell & Company 29-Dec-11
City of Savannah 29-Dec-11
West Valley City 29-Dec-11
TMC Transportation, Inc. 18-Dec-12
Draftfcb, Inc. 18-Dec-12
Roush Industries, Inc. 18-Dec-12
Precision Services 4-Dec-15
The Fresh Market 14-Dec-15
Nidec Minster Corp. 22-Dec-15
Harris County, Texas 5-Dec-16
Reeves Eye Surgery Center 5-Dec-16
USF Holland, LLC d/b/a Holland 5-Dec-16
Mount Carmel Health System 5-Dec-16
The SYGMA Network 5-Dec-16
Egis Projects, Inc. 8-Dec-17
Arizona State Hospital 8-Dec-17
Mike's Carwash, Inc. 3-Dec-18
Zimmer Biomet 28-Dec-18
Titan Machinery Inc. 3-Dec-20
Greenville Police Department 3-Dec-20
Community Financial LLC/CFSC 9-Dec-21
Konecranes, Inc. 10-Dec-21
BDO USA, LLP 20-Dec-21
EquipmentShare 22-Dec-21
Brewster Ambulance Service 23-Dec-21
City of West Monroe 29-Dec-21
Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, Inc. 02-Dec=22
Warren County Virginia 6-Dec-22
Chobani 7-Dec-22
Chicago Transit Authority 13-Dec-22
Graphic Packaging International 1-Dec-23
Blue Hawaiian 14-Dec-23
City of Omaha 14-Dec-23
City of Jackson(Jackson PD) 14-Dec-23
Reeves Construction Company 19-Dec-23
Lineage 19-Dec-23
Neiman Enterprises 21-Dec-23
Midwestern Electric LLC/Kuharchik Construction 22-Dec-23
Huntsville Hospital 27-Dec-23
Worthington Enterprises 10-Dec-24
Alliance Industries 13-Dec-24
American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. 13-Dec-24
Riverside County Sheriff's Office 17-Dec-24
Corona Police Department 17-Dec-24
TEKsystems 23-Dec-24
ProTrans International LLC 26-Dec-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
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