ANTITERRORISM VIGILANCE
Download graphic
NATIONAL PURPLE HEART DAY
By Marcus Sims
Purple Heart Day is observed annually on August 7th as a solemn tribute to the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who have been wounded or killed in combat. The day specifically honors recipients of the Purple Heart medal, a military decoration awarded to those who have endured injury or made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. First established in 1782 by General George Washington as the Badge of Military Merit, the award was revived in 1932 and has since become one of the most respected symbols of valor and sacrifice in American military history.
This day serves as a reminder of the high cost of freedom and the courage of those who defend it. It is a time to reflect, express gratitude, and recognize the resilience of Purple Heart recipients and their families. Observances may include visiting military museums, learning about the Medal's history, or supporting organizations like the Purple Heart Foundation, which provides critical resources to wounded veterans. On Purple Heart Day, we remember that every medal represents a story of bravery and selflessness that should never be forgotten.
HONORING SERVICE: BRENT PUCKETT OF INGERSOLL RAND SHARES HIS JOURNEY AS A PURPLE HEART RECIPIENT
By Alfredo Harris
In honor of Purple Heart Day, PaYS Staff had the privilege of interviewing Brent Puckett, a Purple Heart recipient and current Material Control Manager at Ingersoll Rand (IRCO), a proud PaYS partner. Brent Puckett's journey from serving in the military to thriving in the civilian workforce exemplifies the resilience, leadership, and determination that define our nation's Veterans. As we celebrate Purple Heart Day, his experiences offer a powerful reminder of the courage and commitment embodied by our servicemembers.
Can you share the story behind how you earned the Purple Heart?
* My mission in Afghanistan was route clearance. We would go out and find IED's on our routes. One day we found an IED, and we scrapped everything out and around to check systems. I went up to take the demolitions to the robot we were going to use to set the charge and before I got into the truck the IED when off due to an anti-tapering device attached. So, it rolled over a little and went off. The IED was an improvised claymore type, so it shot out shrapnel of different kinds. I was hit by six different pieces. One in my left hand, one in my right knee, and four up the right side of my torso and chest.
How has receiving the Purple Heart impacted your life and perspective?
* Well, it was a major change. My plan was to retire from the Army and figure out my life is closer to retirement. Next thing I knew I was in and out of surgeries for a year and worrying about what was next and what to do. As for perspective I'm just happy to be alive and here with my family. I don't sweet the little things anymore and I have become easier going. I don't really stress too much. I know I will just figure it out as I go or in some time.
What advice do you have for others who may have faced a similar challenge?
* Don't let it get to you. Just keep moving forward everything will get easier as you go. Whether it be pain, life, people, work or whatever, put your head down and get through the day. Tomorrow will be better.
In what ways can society better support and appreciate the sacrifices made by Purple Heart recipients and Veterans?
* Give us a chance, we will surprise you in a lot of cases. Most of the Veterans I have worked with are quick learners, can improvise very well, and are good leaders.
How did your leadership role in the Army prepare you for your current role at IRCO?
* Managing people. Everyone is different and, in the military, you meet them all. Learning how to manage each different person and figuring out how to lead each different person is a great tool for success. Also, being able to manage the differences between group leadership and individual leadership. The leadership schools in the military are great. I've taken leadership classes in both the military and civilian and I've learned more from military schools.
Brent Puckett's journey from combat injury to civilian leadership reflects the strength and resilience of our nation's Veterans. On Purple Heart Day, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made and the potential that continues long after service.
|
|
Dear PaYS Partners,
Let's welcome our newest PaYS Partners and give a special thanks to the battalions' leadership and A&PAs for their support.
New Partners
LearJet (Bombardier) - Kansas City Battalion
Cleary Building Corp - WIARNG
Zim Vie US Corp LLC - Miami Battalion
QTS Data Center - Atlanta Battalion
Total Safety Inc. US - Baton Rouge Battalion
Sleep Number - MNARNG
Upcoming Ceremonies
26 August 2025
Brown County, WI
Milwaukee Battalion
3 September 2025
Montgomery County, TN
Nashville Battalion
Regional Army PaYS Marketing Analysts:
Crancena Ross
Northeast Region
(410) 206-0413
crancena.g.ross.ctr@army.mil
Victor Fleming
Southeast Region
(386) 588-2152
victor.t.fleming.ctr@army.mil
Frank McNeil
Southwest Region
(202) 322-2995
frank.t.mcneil.ctr@army.mil
Alfredo Harris
West Region
(706) 248-0981
alfredo.j.harris.ctr@army.mil
Gabriel Street
Midwest Region
(270) 706-3265
gabriel.street@tundrafed.com
Samuel Armstrong
ARNG-East
(202) 770-7200
samuel.armstrong21.ctr@army.mil
Roy Kidwell
ARNG-West
(757) 344-1941
Roy.Kidwell@tundrafed.com
|
|
|
MARKETING TRIP TO ALBANY, NY
By Crancena Ross
Army PaYS Marketer Crancena Ross began a week of marketing efforts in Albany, NY, which included meetings with the U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion, current PaYS partners, and prospective new partners.
Her first stop was at the Recruiting Battalion, where she met with Battalion Commander LTC Micah Klein, Executive Officer MAJ Jason Cooper, and Command Sergeant Major Brian Jones. During the meeting, Ross highlighted the significant role the PaYS program plays in supporting Soldiers as they transition from military service into rewarding civilian careers. The visit underscored the leadership's commitment to building strong relationships and fostering meaningful community engagement through the PaYS initiative.
Photo right -
MAJ Jason Cooper, XO, Ms, Crancena Ross,Army PaYS Marketer, LTC Micah Klein, Albany BN Commander, and CSM Brian Jones
Crancena continued her outreach throughout the Albany area, accompanied by Mr. Lopez Santos from Advertising and Public Affairs (A&PA) and Mr. Michael Falvo, Public Affairs Chief and Social Media Manager for the Albany Recruiting Battalion. As part of her efforts, she met with representatives from the Albany State Police Department, where Officer Curtis Rich received an in-depth briefing on the PaYS Program and PaYS Information Exchange (PIX) training. Their discussion focused on opportunities for collaboration at job fairs and in broader community outreach efforts. Officer Rich expressed strong interest in the program and committed to reaching out to listed candidates immediately a promising step toward increasing Veteran representation in law enforcement careers.
Photo right -
L-R Officer Christopher Martin, Mr. Michael Falvo, Officer Curtis Rich, Ms. Crancena Ross, Officer Brandon Mercoglan and Mr. Lopez Santos
Photo below -
SFC Kevon Brown, SFC Joshua Brown, SFC Trent Smith, SSG Anthony Fruscio, CPT Christopher Anderson, and 1SG Gregory Kestelson
The trip continued with visits to the Albany Recruiting Company and local stations, where Crancena delivered an interactive PaYS briefing to leaders and Soldiers. The session sparked engaging questions, especially about opportunities for Reservists and National Guard members, and was marked by a high level of energy and enthusiasm.
During the visit to Attentive Care Service, the conversation centered on collaborative efforts to promote job fair flyers and current openings via social media, create connections between medically trained Soldiers and explore other partnership opportunities.
Photo right -
Ms. Denise Raffety, Director of Marketing and Ms. Crancena Ross, Army PaYS Marketer
Photo below -
Ms Tatiana Diaz, HR Director, Mr. Michael Falvo, Social Media, Albany BN. Kathy Sheehan, Mayor City of Albany, NY. Ms. Crancena Ross, Army PaYS Marketer, and Mr. Lopez Santos, APA Chief
Crancena then visited Albany City Hall, where the city's strong commitment to supporting Soldiers and Veterans was clearly evident. Accompanied by Mr. Santos and Mr. Falvo, she met with Executive Administrator Elaine Dimase and Human Resources Director Tatiana Diaz to build a foundation for ongoing collaboration. During the meeting, the team provided an overview of the Army PaYS program, highlighting the benefits it could bring to Albany's service members, Veterans, and the local workforce. Mr. Santos discussed how the partnership could improve recruitment, strengthen community connections, and boost social media outreach. By the end of the discussion, everyone agreed that working together could create a lasting, positive impact for both the city and the military community.
Crancena's visit to the Albany, NY area highlighted the many ways PaYS supports Soldiers. Over the week, she connected with leaders and community partners like the Albany Recruiting Battalion leadership, Albany Police Department, City Hall, and Attentive Care Service. With help from Mr. Santos and Mr. Falvo, these meetings strengthened partnerships and showed a shared commitment to helping Soldiers transition to civilian careers. Together, they are building lasting relationships that will benefit Veterans, local communities, and employers in the future.
ARMY PaYS CONTINUES REACHING OUT THROUGH THE NORTHEAST
By Crancena Ross 
Crancena continued her outreach efforts in the Northeast focusing on key partners across Vermont, Connecticut, and upstate New York. Throughout her journey across New York, Connecticut, and Vermont, Ms. Ross also met with several valued partners, including Advanced Network Services in Albany, Shipmate (now Velocity), Bast Hatfield, D.A. Collins Construction Co., and Kubricky Construction Corporation in Wilton, NY. Each visit served to reinforce the Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) Program's commitment to helping Soldiers transition into rewarding civilian careers through strong community and employer connections.
The day began at the Vermont Training Academy in Pittsford, where Crancena Ross met with recruiter Todd Wilkins. He expressed his continued support for the Army PaYS Program and recognized the value Veterans bring to the workforce. Later, Crancena visited Mayor Elinor Carbone of Torrington, CT, along with the city's new Human Resources Director, Denise Korpiewski. Their discussion focused on integrating Torrington's police, fire, and recreation departments into the PaYS Program to enhance workforce development and expand opportunities for Veterans.
Continuing through Connecticut, Crancena visited the Town of Enfield, where HR Director Michelle Gillette. Together, they reviewed the PaYS platform, identified missing job listings, and mapped out plans for upcoming job fair outreach.
Crancena's final stop was a remote briefing via Teams with Albany Recruiting Company and Battalion leadership. The briefing reinforced the benefit of the PaYS program.
Crancena Ross's outreach across Vermont, Connecticut, and upstate New York highlighted the continued growth and impact of the Army PaYS Program. Through meaningful engagement with community leaders, employers, and recruiting personnel, she strengthened partnerships and reaffirmed the program's mission to support Soldiers as they transition into civilian careers. Her efforts not only expanded awareness but also laid the groundwork for future collaboration and Veteran-focused workforce development.
Photo left -
Crancena Ross joined by Michelle Gillette
Photo right -
Crancena Ross joined by Mayor Elinor Carbone and Denise Korpiewski
Photo far right -
Crancena Ross and Todd Wilkins
ARMY PaYS TEAM SHOWCASES PROGRAM AT SHRM 2025 CONFERENCE IN SAN DIEGO
By Marcus Sims
The Army PaYS team recently represented the U.S. Army at the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) 2025 Annual Conference and Expo, held at the San Diego Convention Center. As one of the largest gatherings of human resources professionals in the world, SHRM drew more than 20,000 attendees including HR leaders, industry experts, and hiring decision-makers offering an ideal platform for the PaYS team to advance its mission of connecting transitioning Soldiers with meaningful civilian careers.
Led by Program Manager Antonio Johnson, team members traveled from across the country to promote the benefits of the Army PaYS program to both new and prospective partners. At the expo booth, the team actively engaged attendees, demonstrating how the program links highly skilled, job-ready Soldiers with organizations seeking qualified talent.
Project Lead Antonio Crawley, Senior Marketer Kevin Talley, and Marketers Crancena Ross and Alfredo Harris met with potential corporate partners on the expo floor, underscoring how PaYS aligns with strategic talent acquisition goals. Meanwhile, Social Media Coordinator Marcus Sims captured and shared the team's presence across Army PaYS digital platforms, giving followers a front-row seat to the engagement, energy, and professionalism on display. In addition to promoting the program, the PaYS team gained valuable insight into current HR trends and workforce development needs with knowledge they will use to further enhance partnerships and tailor the program's offerings.
Army PaYS continues to be a no-cost opportunity for corporate partners, providing unique access to disciplined, trained, and motivated Soldiers and Veterans. As the team expands its outreach, participation in events like SHRM remains vital to reinforcing the Army's commitment to supporting Soldiers' successful transition to civilian employment.
  
PaYS PROGRAM MANAGER HOSTS THREE-DAY ENGAGEMENT FOCUSED ON ALIGNMENT AND GROWTH
By Gabriel Street
Over a structured three-day engagement, the Army PaYS team came together for a series of sessions designed to enhance professional skills, fostering team camaraderie, and tackling both short-term goals and long-term strategic priorities.
The first day kicked off with a team meeting designed to build rapport and clarify shared objectives. This was followed by an overview from the Program Manager Antonio Johnson that delivered key project updates and outlined upcoming priorities. To strengthen team cohesion, the day concluded with a team-building session at a local bowling alley, where informal conversations and shared experiences helped foster a sense of trust and camaraderie.
On the second day, the focus shifted to skill development and knowledge sharing. Team members participated in targeted training sessions covering social media, administrative functions, and communication strategies. PaYS Marketer Samuel Armstrong led a signing ceremony class that reinforced the importance of accurate documentation, while a budget overview encouraged transparency around financial resources. The day wrapped up with a marketing brief that invited feedback and sparked collaboration on outreach strategies.
The final day was dedicated to strategic alignment and external engagement. A mid-year review allowed the team to assess progress toward goals and discuss areas for improvement. Marketing team members provided program updates, sparking dialogue on partnership opportunities and implementation strategies. The engagement concluded with a briefing from Colonel Samantha Frazier, Director of Soldier for Life (SFL), reinforcing guidance and unifying the team around shared priorities.
Throughout the event, the structured agenda promoted engagement, professional growth, and operational cohesion positioning the team for continued success and future mission support.
Photo above -
Marketer Samuel Armstrong leads training
Photo above right -
The PaYS Team
Photo right -
The Army PaYS Team along with SFL Leaders
Photo far right -
Colonel Frazier from SFL addresses the PaYS Team
FOREFRONT HEALTHCARE PARTNERS WITH ARMY PaYS
By Samuel L. Armstrong
 Forefront Healthcare recently participated in a signing ceremony with Great Lakes Recruiting Battalion in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. The ceremony was hosted by LTC Quentin McCart, Commander, Great Lakes Recruiting Battalion which included Dan Bowen, CEO of Forefront Healthcare.
Forefront Healthcare is a leading provider of culinary, environmental, and support services exclusively focused on healthcare and senior living industries. Established in 2019, the company was founded by a team of experienced professionals who recognized the unique challenges and opportunities within these specialized environments. With a leadership team boasting over 346 years of combined experience, Forefront Healthcare delivers customized solutions that prioritize quality, safety, and the overall well-being of patients, residents, and caregivers. Serving clients across all 50 states, Forefront is committed to innovation, operational excellence, and enhancing the daily experiences of those in their care.
While addressing the attendees, LTC McCart said, "If you look at Forefront... I can't think of a corporation or an industry that matches better with the military. We're talking facilities industry, medical, culinary... everything [that they do] is a job we have."
 
Mr. Bowen then concluded the ceremonies remarks by expressing "On behalf of Forefront Healthcare, we're delighted to be a participant with Army PaYS. We're honored to serve you as well. Part of our core values is service, empathy, excellence, and tenacity... those are the values we share with members of the armed services."
The recent signing ceremony between Forefront Healthcare and the military marks a significant alliance built on shared values and a common purpose. This partnership underscores a powerful synergy between Forefront's mission and the invaluable skills honed through military service. It represents a commitment to supporting Veterans and fostering opportunities, demonstrating how civilian companies and the armed services can collaborate to benefit all involved.
Photo above left -
LTC McCart provides remarks
Photo above right -
Mr. Bowen signs the MOA as LTC McCart looks on
Photo right -
LTC McCart presents Mr. Bowen and Ryan Williams, Co Founder and COO, Forefront Healthcare the plaque
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
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
|
