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JANUARY NEWSLETTER THEME
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time to reflect on the life and legacy of a man who dedicated himself to justice, equality, and service to others. Through courage, faith, and a steadfast commitment to nonviolence, Dr. King challenged our nation to confront injustice and live up to its founding ideals. His words and actions continue to remind us that meaningful progress requires both moral conviction and collective action. This day is not only about honoring his memory, but about recommitting ourselves to serving our communities, standing up for what is right, and working together to create a more just and unified society.
HONORING DR. KING'S LEGACY THROUGH OPPORTUNITY: MLK DAY AND THE ARMY PaYS MISSION
By Frank McNeil
Every year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we pause as a nation to reflect on the values Dr. King championed, service, equality, dignity, and the belief that every individual deserves a fair chance to pursue their dreams. His work reshaped America and inspired movements around the world. His vision was never limited to civil rights alone. It was rooted in expanding opportunity, especially for those historically pushed to the margins. Dr. King consistently emphasized that progress requires both remembrance and responsibility, challenging communities and institutions alike to turn ideals into meaningful action.
This same spirit of leadership and service that defines the city of San Antonio, Texas, as a proud PaYS partner is deeply rooted in its history. Under the leadership of then Mayor Henry Cisneros, the city made history in 1986 by formally supporting what would become one of the largest Martin Luther King Jr. marches in the country. This support came five years before Texas officially recognized Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a state holiday, demonstrating San Antonio's commitment to being on the right side of history and leading with purpose rather than waiting for consensus.
San Antonio's connection to MLK Day reaches back even further. The city's first march in 1968, led by Reverend Raymond Callies Sr. just two days after Dr. King's assassination, was both a tribute and a call to action. What began as a small group marching in memorial quickly grew into a powerful annual tradition that brought attention to social and economic needs. These early efforts echoed Dr. King's belief that justice must be visible, actionable, and rooted in the lived experiences of the community.
In 1986, the creation of the San Antonio Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission strengthened that tradition and formalized the city's commitment to honoring Dr. King through education, service, and civic engagement. Today, the Commission continues to organize the annual MLK March and a full schedule of events surrounding it. These observances include wreath laying ceremonies honoring civil rights leaders, interfaith worship services, educational workshops focused on leadership and civic responsibility, and community dinners that bring residents together across neighborhoods and backgrounds.
The Commission also oversees the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission Scholarship Fund in partnership with the San Antonio Area Foundation, ensuring that Dr. King's legacy of opportunity is carried forward by investing directly in the next generation. Through these efforts, San Antonio reinforces the idea that honoring Dr. King means more than reflection. It means creating pathways for education, leadership, and long-term community advancement.
San Antonio's Annual MLK March has grown into one of the largest and most diverse marches in the United States, drawing an estimated 300,000 participants from around the world. Each year, families, students, service members, Veterans, civic leaders, and community organizations walk side by side, united by a shared commitment to service and equality. The march stands as a living example of how Dr. King's message continues to inspire action across generations.
Together, Dr. King's enduring vision and San Antonio's legacy of leadership remind us that progress is built through action, partnership, and opportunity. The City of San Antonio continues to honor that legacy by fostering inclusion, empowering future generations, and ensuring that service and opportunity remain pathways to a stronger, more equitable future for all.
VETERAN LEADERSHIP FUELS VETERAN HIRING INITIATIVE AT VIRGINIA DMV
By Kevin Talley
Timothy "TJ" Bilbrey began his military career in Martinsville, VA, enlisting in the Virginia Army National Guard as a Cannon Crewmember (13B). What began as a six-year plan quickly turned into a distinguished 26-year journey of service and leadership. After his time in field artillery, TJ shifted his focus to the human resources career field, taking on key roles such as Recruit Sustainment Manager and First Sergeant for a cyber unit. He concluded his career in 2024, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major (CSM) and serving as the Human Resources CSM for the Virginia National Guard's general staff (G1).
Following his retirement, TJ seamlessly transitioned to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) as the Human Resources Director. Drawing on his extensive leadership experience and deep knowledge of human resources, he customized his resume to align with the position. Notably, TJ had prior experience working with the same database system at the National Guard that is used at the DMV, further smoothing his transition.
Recognizing the unique skills and values that Veterans bring to the workforce, TJ sought to establish a Veteran hiring initiative at the DMV. During his time at the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) at Fort Lee, VA, he learned about the Army's Partnership for Your Success program (PaYS), a collaborative effort designed to connect Veterans with employers. Believing the program would provide the DMV with access to highly qualified candidates, TJ led efforts to partner with the Army PaYS program.
TJ appreciates advantages veterans offer, noting that soldiers are accustomed to structure and excel in adapting to high-pressure situations, qualities that translate well into civilian careers. His best advice for transitioning soldiers is to clearly translate their military experience into civilian terms on their resumes, ensuring hiring managers understand the relevance and value of their service.
Photo above -
CSM Bilbrey
Photo right -
TJ with PaYS Senior Marketer Kevin Talley
TJ's efforts are helping DMV to build stronger connections with Veterans and creating more job opportunities for those transitioning from military. His work shows how organizations can effectively support and hire Veterans by recognizing the value of their experience.
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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
Baker Group
MNARNG
Tort Intake Professional
Salt Lake City BN
True North Equipment Company
NDARNG
Town of Vernon
Albany BN
Upcoming Ceremonies
12 February 2026
Trinity St. Joseph
Syracuse BN
5 March 2026
Coca Cola Beverages Northeast
CTARNG
18 March 2026
Electro Switch Corporation
New England BN
25 MAR 2026
Maine Drilling & Blasting
New England BN
14 APR 2026
NY State Dept. of Corrections & Community Services
Albany BN
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
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ARMY PaYS PROGRAM CONCLUDES 2025 WITH SUCCESSFUL VIRTUAL END-OF-YEAR MEETINGS
By Marcus Sims
 To conclude 2025, the Army PaYS Program hosted its End-of-Year team meetings in a virtual format, bringing together staff members from across the nation. While leadership coordinated operations from Fort Eustis, Virginia, marketers and team members participated remotely from various locations, demonstrating the program's continued adaptability and cohesion.
Program Manager Antonio Johnson opened the meetings by recognizing the marketing and data management teams for their collective dedication and accomplishments throughout the year. He emphasized their role in expanding awareness of the PaYS mission and increasing program participation. COL Samantha Frazier, Director of Soldier for Life, also addressed the team, offering words of encouragement and reaffirming leadership's strong support for the program's ongoing growth and success.
Photo right -
Program Manager Antonio Johnson conducting the virtual meetings
Over the following three days, discussions centered on key performance areas, including Soldier registration volume, new partner engagements, and overall program effectiveness. Team members reviewed growth metrics, assessed outreach strategies, and engaged in open dialogue to identify successes and opportunities for improvement.
A significant focus of the meetings was placed on strengthening partner engagement strategies. Marketers collaborated to practice and refine pitches to prospective partners,  providing constructive feedback to ensure each presentation clearly conveyed the value of the PaYS Program. These exercises reinforced the shared objective of building meaningful partnerships that help ensure Soldiers have access to gainful employment opportunities following their military service.
The week concluded on a festive note with a virtual gathering featuring team members sporting their best ugly Christmas sweaters. While celebratory in nature, the closing event underscored a continued commitment to collaboration and mission success. The End-of-Year meetings highlighted the strength of the Army PaYS team and reaffirmed a unified dedication to connecting Soldiers and Veterans with career opportunities that support long-term success beyond military service.
Photo left - Some of the team in their ugly Christmas sweaters
STRENGTHENING FUTURES: HEXION AND THE U.S. ARMY FORGE A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
By Gabriel W. Street
Hexion recently joined the Columbus Recruiting Battalion for an Army PaYS Program signing ceremony in Columbus, OH. Hosted by LTC John Steiner and attended by Hexion President and CEO Michael Lefenfeld, the event took place at The National Vietnam Memorial and Museum, where the Battalion's support and professionalism highlighted the importance of this milestone partnership.
Hexion, headquartered in Columbus, OH., is a global leader in adhesives and performance materials supporting industries such as construction, automotive, energy, and industrial coatings. With more than a century of history, Hexion is known for its focus on innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. The company's products including thermoset resins and specialty adhesives used in engineered wood and advanced composites are essential components in modern manufacturing.
During the ceremony, LTC Steiner emphasized the importance of partnership stating, "Our mission is to recruit the best volunteers to enable the Army to win in a complex world, something we cannot accomplish through recruiters alone. Partnerships like the one we share with Hexion strengthen relationships, build trust, and open new opportunities for our Soldiers, veterans, and communities."
Photo left -
LTC Steiner and Mr. Lefenfeld signing the Memorandum of Agreement
Photo far right -
LTC Steiner and Mr. Lefenfeld holding the signed agreement
Photo right -
LTC Steiner and Mr. Lefenfeld cutting the ceremonial cake
Later, Mr. Lefenfeld shared Hexion's perspective on the collaboration stating, "Hexion strives for perfection in everything we do, and we see that same commitment reflected in the U.S. Army every day. Our goal is to ensure everyone goes home better than they arrived having learned something, accomplished something, and prepared to build a stronger future."
The signing ceremony between Hexion and Army PaYS reinforced a shared commitment to collaboration and meaningful career opportunities for Soldiers and Veterans. It also emphasized Hexion's dedication to innovation and community engagement as a global leader rooted in Columbus, OH. Together, this partnership sets the stage for new opportunities, mutual growth, and a positive impact on the workforce and wider community.
Photo left -
Hexion Staff and the Columbus Recruiting Battalion Staff
AUSTAL USA JOINS ARMY PaYS PROGRAM TO SUPPORT TRANSITIONING SOLDIERS
By Victor Fleming Sr.
 We are excited to announce a new partnership between Austal USA and the United States Army through the PaYS program. This collaboration marks a significant step toward providing transitioning Soldiers with valuable career opportunities in the shipbuilding and defense industry, building on the skills they developed during their military service.
The partnership was formally established during a signing ceremony held at the National Maritime Museum in Mobile, Alabama. The event was led by LTC Michael Miles, Commander of the Montgomery Recruiting Battalion, and Jason Welch, Vice President of Security and IT at Austal USA. The ceremony opened with the University of South Alabama Army ROTC Color Guard, followed by playing the National Anthem.
 
LTC Miles and Mr. Welch then addressed attendees, underscoring the importance and shared objectives of the new partnership. Mr. Welch commented, "Through this program, we are able to connect Soldiers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical expertise with a company that values these skills. The qualities developed through military service make these Soldiers outstanding candidates for our team."
Photo far left -
LTC Miles and Mr Welch
Photo left -
LTC Miles swearing in future Soldiers
Photo top right -
LTC Miles providing remarks
Austal USA is a recognized leader in the shipbuilding industry, has committed to offering job interviews and career opportunities to Soldiers who complete the PaYS program. This agreement emphasizes Austal's continued dedication to hiring veterans and creating a workforce that values leadership, discipline, and technical expertise homed in military service.
This new partnership with Austal USA strengthens the growing network of PaYS partners, offering transitioning Soldiers access to a broader range of career opportunities across various industries. Austal joins over 1400 companies committed to providing Soldiers with a direct pathway to civilian careers, helping ease their transition and setting them up for long-term success. As this partnership continues to grow, Soldiers can look forward to even more career pathways that recognize the value of their military experience and provide a solid foundation for their futures.
We are thrilled about the future of this partnership and extend our thanks to Austal USA for their continued support in helping Soldiers transition into rewarding civilian careers.
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
Rexel USA Inc. 9-Jan-25
Turbo Drill Industries 15-Jan-25
University of Penn Health System 15-Jan-25
Ingersoll Rand Industrial US Inc. 16-Jan-25
Livonia Police Department 27-Jan-25
Allo Fiber 29-Jan-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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