Thank You, Veterans - Del Papa Distributing

On this Veterans Day, we say, “Thank you,” to those who have served our country. At Del Papa Distributing, we are honored to recognize some of our veteran employees. Serving in different branches of the United States military has shaped them. They share how the experience continues to influence them today.

Draven

Draven, a Delivery Assistant at Del Papa Distributing, actively served in the United States Marine Corps for 5 years and he still serves in the Reserves. He has been a Security Forces Guard, an Infantry Squad Leader, and a Combat Marksmanship Coach. Draven always had the sense to protect and help and he wanted to make a meaningful impact through service for his family, country and peers. “Something that I’ve learned throughout my time that has really stuck with me is to ‘adapt and overcome.’ It carries over into civilian life that no matter what obstacles occur, you should always adapt and overcome anything that comes your way. Another thing that has stuck with me to this day is to ‘embrace the suck.’ Whether you’re on patrol with little to no sleep or hungry with body aches, you can always look to your left and right to see you’re not the only one going through physical or psychological challenges. Later down the line, you can look back at all the memories and just smile or have a good laugh.”

Santos

For three years, Santos Caballero served the United States Army as an Infantryman 11bravo E-4. He is now a District Manager in Del Papa Distributing’s coastal market. The military was appealing to Santos for many reasons: he was able to serve his country, receive educational benefits, pursue fitness development and personal development all while traveling to places he hadn’t been. His time in the military continues to inspire him in his career today. “Teamwork, discipline, and core values are all areas that tie into our culture here at Del Papa and help me navigate through my day-to-day responsibilities.”

Brandon

Brandon, a Retail Service Coordinator in the coastal market, served in the United States Marine Corps for six years as a Field Radio Operator. His interest in serving his country began as a little kid seeing Marines on TV. He noticed how sharp and intimidating they seemed. “I saw marines as the toughest out there and I knew I wanted to be a part of that my whole life,” he says. When asked what he learned during his years of service, Brandon reflects: “I learned so much from the Marine Corps there is too much to list. I think the most important things I learned would be leadership and devotion to work and completing a job. That’s something that sticks with me to this day and is my motivation to keep going every day.”

Roland

Roland, the Courier Driver at Del Papa Distributing, served as an Avenger Crew Member Gunner in the Army for almost three years. He wanted an honorable and respectful job that would allow him to provide for his family. Roland learned “when you consistently do hard things, there will always be a big payoff.”

Javon

Warehouse Coordinator, Javon, served in the United States Navy for three years as an Engineman and Petty Officer Third Class. Growing up, with his stepfather in the U.S. Air Force, Javon saw the respect the military received. Wanting to see and serve the world, Javon joined. When asked what he learned during his service, Javon says, “Don’t be afraid to grow. You can overcome any obstacle. Freedom isn’t free and you have to fight for what you want. Lastly, make memories – you only live once.”

Tommy

Tommy served in the Army for seven years as a Session Leader. Growing up, military service was what he knew as every man in his family has served our country. Today, Tommy is a Sales Rep at Del Papa Distributing. Throughout his time serving our country, Tommy learned and was influenced by the value of family, something that continues to drive him today.

Steve

Steve served the United States Marine Corps for a decade, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Now, he is the Vice President of Technology Solutions and Integration at Del Papa Distributing. F-14 Tomcats sparked Steve’s desire to serve our country. “Growing up I always wanted to be a pilot and fly jets. However, when I was a senior in high school, I ended up going to the first recruiter that was in our lunchroom, and it was a Marine. I saw the uniform and never looked back.” When asked what he learned through his time in the military, Steve recounts, “’Adapt and overcome.’ No matter the situation, expect the unexpected and be prepared for anything. Also a few more that have stayed with me throughout the years, ‘Embrace the suck’, ‘Pain is weakness leaving the body’, and ‘Keep it simple stupid.’”