As Veterans Day approaches, we at Refuel Agency take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to those who have served our country. For over 36 years, we’ve not only helped brands reach military audiences, but we’ve also built lasting relationships with service members and their families.
This year, we’re honoring the moment by sharing personal stories from our team that highlight the courage, resilience, and values that inspire us every day.
A Legacy of Hard Work
“My dad taught me what hard work looks like, but more importantly, why hard work is important.”
– Aaryck Enriquez, Digital Account Strategist
Aaryck, a Digital Account Strategist at Refuel, carries with him the invaluable lessons instilled by his father, a veteran of both the Army and Air Force. Witnessing his dad’s dedication to his military career, first in field artillery and later as an intelligence analyst, Aaryck learned that hard work isn’t just about showing up – it’s about dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. These qualities, forged in the crucible of military service, continue to shape Aaryck’s approach to his work at Refuel Agency.
A Family of Service
“All I knew was that my Uncle was in a recon division, got behind enemy lines, blew up bridges. Then when the Allies took the land back in battle, he helped build it back since he was a building engineer.”
– Lance Rossi
For Lance, the spirit of service runs deep within his family. His father served in WWII, a close friend endured two tours in Vietnam, and his uncle bravely fought in Korea. While these men rarely spoke of their wartime experiences, their actions spoke volumes. Lance recalls his uncle’s remarkable journey – a building engineer who, when called upon, became a skilled combatant, destroying and then rebuilding vital infrastructure. These stories of courage and resilience in the face of adversity have profoundly shaped Lance’s perspective.
The Silent Strength of a WWII Navigator
“He wondered why he was always on the plane that made it back, and felt some degree of guilt and a huge degree of sadness for those lost. But they kept doing their duty day in and day out.”
– Greg Schober, Associate Director of Integrated Media
Greg’s grandfather, William, served as a navigator in the Army Air Corps during WWII, flying missions in the perilous skies of the Pacific. While William rarely spoke of his wartime experiences, the fragments he shared painted a picture of immense bravery and deep emotional scars. He witnessed the loss of countless comrades, often wondering why he was spared while others perished. This sense of survivor’s guilt, coupled with the constant fear of battle, haunted him long after the war ended. Yet, despite these burdens, William carried on with unwavering dedication, a testament to the silent strength of those who served.
The True Meaning of Life
“Hearing all he had done over the last 14 years of service was humbling, inspiring, and changed my world forever. Now two cute little Esparza boys later, I can say MSG Esparza taught me the true meaning of life.”
– Liz Carmo, EVP of Audience and Brand Strategy
Liz’s connection to the military community is deeply personal. Her husband, Master Sergeant Esparza, has dedicated his life to serving his country as a Psychological Operations soldier. Witnessing his commitment to duty, his courage in the face of danger, and his compassion for others has profoundly impacted Liz’s worldview. Through his service, she has gained a deeper understanding of sacrifice, resilience, and the importance of fighting for something greater than oneself. His dedication to his fellow soldiers and his country has not only inspired her but has also enriched their family life, teaching her the true meaning of service and commitment.
A Dentist at the End of the Burma Road
“He removed all of the wisdom teeth of the pilots of the Flying Tigers to prevent the common source of toothache in the age group of those pilots.”
– David Silver, Chief Growth Officer
David’s grandfather, a dentist in WWII, found himself stationed in the China-Burma-India theater, a world away from the familiar comforts of home. There, he not only tended to the dental needs of his fellow soldiers but also played a pivotal role in maintaining the health and morale of the troops. He tackled a dysentery outbreak with resourcefulness, opening nightclubs for both enlisted men and officers to ensure proper hygiene in the kitchens. His wartime experiences were a mix of the mundane and the extraordinary, reflecting the unpredictable nature of service and the adaptability required of those who served.
Never Giving Up
“He ultimately decided to enroll in college using his GI Bill at the age of 27… Over the next 4 years, there were many stories just like these where Ben didn’t get to have a typical ‘college experience’ and at times thought about quitting… but in the end, he never gave up and graduated.”
– Mallory Hatcher, Senior Account Director
Mallory’s husband, Ben, a Coast Guard veteran, embarked on a challenging journey when he decided to pursue higher education after his military service. He faced a unique set of obstacles as he transitioned back into civilian life, navigating a world that often felt unfamiliar. Despite the difficulties – the late nights juggling work and studies, the feeling of being out of place among younger classmates, and the temptation to give up – Ben persevered. His determination to succeed, a quality honed during his time in the Coast Guard, ultimately led him to graduation. Ben’s story is a testament to the resilience of veterans and their ability to overcome adversity.
A Positive Force
“My Dad has always been an example of a positive attitude… He has lived by two affirmations/mottos that are now pillars of how I aim to live my own life.”
– Roxanne Moore, Director of Sales Enablement
Roxanne’s father, a Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam War, faced his share of challenges, including surviving a harrowing collision at sea. Yet, through it all, he maintained an unwavering positive attitude, a quality that has deeply influenced Roxanne. He taught her the importance of focusing on the good, even in the face of adversity, and approaching life with enthusiasm and an expectation of positive outcomes. These life lessons, passed down from a man who witnessed both the best and worst of humanity, serve as guiding principles for Roxanne.
Kindness in Boot Camp
“I’ve learned a lot from my Dad, but one thing he learned in boot camp was to be nice to everybody, as you never know when you’ll need their help.”
– Anna Michelle Ward, Senior Account Director
Anna Michelle’s father, a Marine Corps veteran, learned a valuable lesson during his time in boot camp – the importance of kindness and camaraderie. He found himself in a life-threatening situation when he was thrown into a pool with a heavy backpack, unable to swim. It was the quick action of his fellow recruits, who risked punishment to help him, that saved his life. This experience solidified the bond between them and taught him the importance of looking out for one another, a principle that extends far beyond the battlefield.
A Military Legacy
“My dad came to the U.S. from the Dominican Republic when he was just 19, looking for a better life. Not long after, he joined the Air Force, and that one decision ended up creating a military legacy in our family that’s still going strong three generations later.”
– Jacqueline Marie Martinez, VP Business Affairs & Partnerships
Jacqueline’s father, an immigrant from the Dominican Republic, sought a better life in the U.S. and found it through service in the Air Force. His decision to enlist not only provided him with opportunities but also ignited a family tradition of military service. He instilled in his children the values of hard work, dedication, and giving back to their adopted country. Inspired by his example, subsequent generations of Jacqueline’s family have answered the call to serve, carrying on his legacy in the Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard. Her father’s courageous leap of faith all those years ago continues to resonate, shaping the lives of his descendants and reinforcing the profound impact that military service can have on families and communities.
33 Years of Service, From Germany to Mt. St. Helens
“You paid for it and I had a lot of fun.”
– Kristi Contreras, Director, Digital Analytics
Kristi Contreras proudly shares the story of her step-father, Platoon Sergeant Donald J. Roberston, who served a remarkable 33 years in the U.S. Army and National Guard. Don’s military journey took him from active duty in Germany to the Inactive Reserve and finally to the Washington State National Guard, where he dedicated 27 years of service.
His commitment to duty was evident in the many medals he earned, including a Meritorious Service Medal. Kristi particularly admires his bravery during the eruption of Mt. St. Helens, where he flew helicopter search and rescue missions through dangerous conditions. Don’s humble and humorous response when thanked for his service – “You paid for it and I had a lot of fun” – perfectly captures his character. Kristi honors his dedication and the legacy of service he established.
A Commander's Legacy: Lessons in Action
“He’s been an example of excellence & dedication on and off the battlefield, and someone I know would give the shirt off his back to a fellow sailor or civilian on the street.”
– Tayler Thomas Turnell, Director, Account Development
Tayler Thomas Turnell, Director of Account Development, expresses deep admiration for her father, retired Navy Commander Greg Thomas. His 30+ years of service instilled invaluable lessons in Tayler, not through words, but through his actions and unwavering commitment. She learned the importance of punctuality, perseverance, active listening, and maintaining a brave face in the face of challenges. His dedication to excellence extended beyond his military career, shaping his interactions with family and friends. Tayler recognizes her father as a true example of leadership and selflessness, someone who always puts others first. She salutes his service and the impact he has had on her life.
A Father's Wisdom
“Well, I’m not quite spectacular, but almost fantastically well.”
– Danna Bandele, Jr. Account Manager
Danna fondly remembers her father, Dana Jermar Leary, who served in both the United States Army and Air Force. His unique response to inquiries about his well-being – “Well, I’m not quite spectacular, but almost fantastically well” – perfectly captures his playful personality. Danna also shares a lighthearted anecdote about how her father, after whom she was named, always called her “Deyon” instead of her first name. This story is a touching tribute to a father’s quirky wisdom and the lasting impact he had on his daughter.
To all the veterans and their families, we thank you for your service.
Refuel Agency’s long-standing success in military marketing stems from our deep understanding of this unique community. We combine data-driven strategies with cultural sensitivity to craft campaigns that resonate with military values and reach this audience across their preferred channels.
To learn more about how Refuel Agency connects Brands with the military community, connect with us here.
