Veterans Day celebrates those who have protected our homes and truly made home possible. That’s why this year, Lowe’s asked military partners and associates to describe what Veterans Day -- and home -- means to them.
Representing all five branches of the military community, these veterans and their families have been part of military-focused programs provided by Lowe’s that focus on skilled trades and DIY education; workforce development; and safe, affordable housing.
Lowe’s is proud to partner with the USO, AMVETS, Building Homes for Heroes, The Mission Continues, Operation FINALLY HOME, Purple Heart Homes and employs 20,000 military associates across the country. Here are some of their stories, reflecting on the meaning of Veterans Day, military service and more.
“We’ve lived all over the world, and the house isn’t the important part, the togetherness inside of the building is what makes a home. Each year on Veterans Day, I take a few minutes privately to think about all that my husband has given up to serve this great country. There’s been countless birthdays and holidays missed, plenty of ‘firsts’ have gone unseen by him. There have been months and months at a time that he has had zero contact with us, and there’s been years at a time that we haven’t seen him. He’s truly given his all to this country and for that, along with every other service member who has done the same, I am grateful.”
“Military service is not for everyone as I soon got to realize. For me, Veterans Day is a time where I can reminisce about the days of service to my country alongside my fellow brothers and sisters. Veterans Day is a day to connect with those whom I served with in my unit. A day where I can feel proud of literally overcoming obstacles and sacrifices that I had to endure while being part of the United States Military.”
“Home means family. I was blessed to enter the US Army at the age of 17 and am now approaching my 36th year of service. The military has molded my life in ways that I could have never imagined, and I truly enjoy engaging with all Lowe’s associates and customers that have served our country. On Veterans Day, I reflect on duty, loyalty, selfless service and ultimately the sacrifice that all military members have rendered for our country.”
“In America, one can truly AIM HIGH. Veterans Day reminds me of my personal contribution coupled with other veterans who I served alongside of. Our service will never be in vain, thanks to our nation’s gratitude.”
“To me, home means being free to make choices that our forefathers fought for. My father served 21 years in the US Army and gave three years of his life as a POW during the Korean war. As he passed away in 2005, it was a great honor to have him buried on Veterans Day. I’m honored to have served in the Coast Guard for 20 years and Veterans Day is a moment to appreciate all the men, women and K-9's that have proudly served this great nation and are now currently protecting our freedom.”
“My grandparents came here as immigrants to help build this country, and to continue leaving a legacy of ingenuity, determination and commitment for all immigrants. Veterans Day is an opportunity to celebrate my second family - the brothers and sisters who have served alongside me and have endured similar challenges. It means ensuring the future of our country and communities across the nation.”
“Three words sum up the meaning of Veterans Day to me: honor, courage and commitment. To me, there is no greater honor to have served, donned the uniform and stood amongst the ranks of some of the most courageous men and women I’ve ever known. I’m proud to be an American because we are a nation of compassion – always ready to serve and lead the way when times call for it.”
“Home is a place where you and your family can have safety, security and memories made. In reality, every day is Veterans Day because we owe our freedom every day to the Veterans that made the choice to defend this great country. I am very proud to work for a company that honors our Veterans with a discount, designated parking spaces up front and has employees recognized for their service with camo military vests.”
"Military service gave me a trade, for one thing…it was a trade for my life. At 94, I’m glad I can stay in my home and am very thankful for people and companies who are willing to support me this Veterans Day.”
"To me, home means family. The family I was born into and the family I've made through bonds formed in my service as well as working at Lowe's. I come from a military family. My father, grandfathers, uncles, and a number of aunts have all served. Like Memorial Day, Veterans Day is a time that I remember my cousin, who encouraged me to join the Army National Guard and was killed in Baghdad just four years into my first enlistment."
Lowe's support for each individual includes:
- Erin Pieri participated in Lowe’s Virtual DIY Workshops with the USO in August.
- Lowe’s partnership with Operation FINALLY HOME contributes home building and modification support to veterans across the country. The Simental family received storage.
- Through Lowe’s partnership with AMVETS, Jurea Rubit received Lowe’s Generation T Scholarship, supporting her finances and eligibility to become certified in a skilled trade at an accredited institution.
- Jeaniel Image is a Tampa Platoon Leader with The Mission Continues and is receiving Lowe’s support for an upcoming project called New Beginnings of Tampa and the Transitional Housing and Homeless Recovery Program.
- Isaac Francois and his family were recent recipients of a mortgage-free home through Lowe’s partnership with Building Homes for Heroes.
- This summer, Lowe’s and Purple Heart Homes volunteers constructed a new ramp and installed a flagpole for Paul Hartman at his home in North Carolina.
