Military Homecoming: Associate returns after yearlong deployment

Sebastian Hale
Sebastian Hale
May 29, 2019

Associate David Nelson honored with a Military Challenge Coin and welcome reception

When it comes to a veteran’s homecoming, you won’t be pressed finding Lowe’s associates to celebrate. This April, a group of associates at Lowe’s Store Support Center in Mooresville, North Carolina were excited to welcome back one of their own, David Nelson, after a year-long deployment in Afghanistan.

Upon arrival, Nelson received a surprise reception and was presented a custom-made Lowe’s Challenge Coin from Joe McFarland, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Lowe’s executive vice president of stores. As McFarland shared, the coin is a symbol of comradery and gratitude from the company.

“It’s people like David, serving abroad and protecting our great nation, that allow us to lay our head on our pillow every night in the comfort that we do,” said McFarland. “We appreciate his service, and each of the nearly 20,000 veterans that work for this great company.”

Joe and david

As part of a Combined Security Transition Command in Afghanistan, David managed foreign military sales and returned to Lowe’s corporate office to resume his post as Specialty Operations Manager. In addition to the challenge coin, Nelson was also presented with a new camouflage vest, something Lowe’s began offering to all military associates earlier this year.

“From the coin to the new camo vest, it’s amazing to see the steps Lowe’s is taking to recognize and honor veterans,” Nelson said. “I’m happy to be back and thankful for the honor.”

Walk in

Since being founded by a WWII veteran in 1946, Lowe’s has a longstanding appreciation for the military community, whether they are a customer, supplier or one of its military associates.