At L&P, our employee resource groups (ERGs) are communities where our colleagues can learn and grow together. We recently launched Valor – an ERG dedicated to creating a strong community that fosters belonging, support, and engagement for our employee veterans, military families, and allies.

To celebrate Valor’s continued growth, we’ve been highlighting the stories of its members. This month, we’re honored to introduce you to Shari German, Human Resources Manager at Moiron in Sparta, Michigan. Shari shared her experience as a military spouse with us and reflected on what she calls a life of quiet courage.

Can you tell us about your husband’s service?

My husband, Stephen J. German, served in the U.S. Air Force from 1987 to 1998 as a C-5 Galaxy Flying Crew Chief, stationed at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. The C-5 Galaxy is the largest aircraft in the U.S. military, used to transport troops, equipment, and supplies around the world – including paratroopers, tanks, helicopters, and humanitarian aid.

Stephen played a key role in developing a system that allowed the C-5 to airdrop cargo and personnel without landing. These missions supported U.S. Special Operations during the Panama conflict and the Gulf War, including Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

Unlike many military families, we didn’t relocate often. Stephen flew with the aircraft on missions and returned to Dover between deployments. When he left the Air Force, he held the rank of E-5 Staff Sergeant.

Beyond his military service, Stephen was deeply committed to supporting fellow veterans through The American Legion. Even while working demanding 12-hour shifts, he consistently made time to build community and offer meaningful support to those who served before him.

What does being a military spouse mean to you?

Being a military spouse meant living a life of quiet courage. It was about showing up with resilience, grace, and unwavering support – through missions, long shifts, and the many unknowns of military life. You learn to be strong when you come home from work and his “go bag” is gone. You wonder how long he’ll be away, and what risks he’s flying into. You learn to trust the military community, knowing they’ll rally around each other whenever a need arises.

This journey shaped me in ways I never anticipated. It taught me to lead with empathy, adapt with purpose, and find strength in community. Becoming involved with the American Legion family gave me leadership skills I still rely on today and reminded me that the veteran community is always there, steadfast and strong.

When my husband passed away, that support became tangible. I brought him home to Michigan to be interred at the National Veteran Cemetery. On a cold January afternoon, as taps played, I heard the rustle of coats behind me – veterans rising to salute their comrade. That sound, that gesture, is etched in my heart. It was the sound of honor, of belonging, of true support.

I’m proud to have stood beside someone who served. And even prouder for the opportunity to grow, lead, and thrive alongside a life of service.

What advice would you give others about supporting service members and their families?

Never hesitate to hire veterans or military spouses.

Veterans bring leadership, discipline, and adaptability. Military spouses often carry diverse skill sets, resilience, and a deep capacity for multitasking. While military experience may come with unique terminology, don’t let unfamiliar language be a barrier. If you’re unsure how to interpret a resume or role, reach out – veterans and spouses are often happy to help translate. Don’t give up because you don’t understand. Seek clarity, not exclusion.

Respect their time and commitments.

Guard and Reserve service members have dual responsibilities. Deployments and training can affect their availability. Be flexible, patient, and supportive. If you’re working with a military spouse, understand that their needs may shift during these times – from childcare to home repairs, life can get complicated fast. Offer empathy, not judgment. Supporting one member of a military family means supporting the whole unit.

Why did you join Valor?

I was thrilled when Valor launched, and deeply grateful that they welcomed both veterans and military families. Being part of this community allows me to continue growing alongside those who’ve served, while supporting the broader veteran family within the workplace.

Thank you, Shari, for sharing your story and your quiet courage as a military spouse. We honor the memory of Staff Sergeant Stephen J. German and extend our deepest gratitude to all who have served and sacrificed.

At L&P, our employee resource groups (ERGs) are communities where our colleagues can learn and grow together. We recently launched Valor – an ERG dedicated to creating a strong community that fosters belonging, support, and engagement for our employee veterans, military families, and allies.

To celebrate Valor’s launch and growth, we’re sharing members’ stories. This month, we’d like you to meet Brandon Caldwell, a Logistics Analyst at Elite Comfort Solutions – Verona in Verona, MS! We asked Brandon about his military experience and why he joined Valor.

What would you like to share about your military experience?

I joined the military in 2003 at the age of 17, during my junior year of high school. Since then, I’ve earned four Military Occupational Specialties (MOS): Cavalry Scout, Helicopter Crew Chief, Aviation Operations, and Logistics. Over the course of my career, I’ve completed three deployments to the Middle East.

My first combat deployment was in 2009, where I served as a Scout Team Leader in Iraq. The second deployment placed me in an SME or advisory role across Iraq, Dubai/UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain. My third deployment was particularly challenging, as the nature of enemy combatants and tactics had evolved significantly since 2009. This deployment included multiple locations, most notably Tower 22 in the border region of Jordan, Syria, and Iraq. I served as a Scout Platoon Sergeant, leading a platoon of Recon Scouts. I returned home from that deployment in April 2024. It was one of the most demanding experiences of my career – unforgettable in every sense.

What motivated you to join the military and what did you learn from your experience?

When I was 17, I met a Trooper – who happened to be a Scout – just back from the initial invasion of Iraq. At the time, I was a typical 17-year-old, aimless and without a clear direction. But after hearing his stories and seeing his photos, something shifted. I knew I wanted to be part of that fight – to make a difference, both within myself and for this nation.

Throughout my career, I’ve gained a wealth of life experience. I’ve learned to appreciate the small things we often take for granted, the importance of showing up for others, and the power of resilience. I’ve developed leadership skills, honed my ability to solve problems under pressure, and gained a deeper understanding of life’s fragility and the delicate balance it hangs on at any given moment.

Why did you join Valor?

Transitioning to civilian life after so many years in uniform, I knew I’d always have a place where I felt understood among fellow veterans. In this community, you never meet a stranger. There’s always a buddy by your side and a strong sense of belonging.

My hope is to connect with new and current veterans, to be a source of support and guidance as they navigate life on this side of service. No one should have to go it alone – there’s so much out there that one person might never discover without the help of others. Through a community built on valor and shared experience, I strive to be a steady presence – a guiding beacon for my fellow veterans and servicemembers.