The President of the United States has proclaimed May as National Military Appreciation Month to remind us all of the important sacrifices the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces have made to defend our nation’s freedom. That includes all branches of the services, the National Guard and Reserves, plus retirees, veterans, and all of their families – well over 90 million Americans who have sacrificed to safeguard our nation for more than 230 years.
At BAE Systems, National Military Appreciation Month has special meaning, as many of our employees are veterans who joined us after serving. Several are reservists who remain ready to answer the call to return to duty. Many of these vets continue to support the military’s daily operations as contractors. Throughout the month of May, we will be highlighting the stories of individual BAE Systems employee veterans, as they share how they plan to Remember, Honor, and Support their fellow service members this month. Today, we are profiling Phillip Leyva, Program Director, within our Intelligence and Security Sector’s Global Intelligence & Operations Link To (Id:1429027246849;Type:BAEDetailPageCnt_C) business. Leyva, a U.S. Navy veteran, currently supports our Counter-Improvised Explosive Device contract which provides intelligence analysis support for U.S. Forces in Afghanistan.
- Upon leaving the military, why did you choose to come to work at BAE Systems?
I joined BAE Systems in December 2012, as I was finishing my mobilization following 9/11. I was very intrigued by the opportunities the company had to offer, and was excited that I would be working alongside military personnel in a civilian capacity. It was strange to have to remember to fill out a timesheet at first, but I had help from other former military members to keep me on track and ease my transition.
- During your military service, were you aware of BAE Systems support to military operations?
I had heard about BAE Systems, but didn’t have much exposure to the company’s products and services until the very end of my career when we entered the shipyards for overhaul. I was impressed to learn the company does quite a bit of ship repair work for the U.S. Navy.
- How does it feel to know your work is continuing to support our troops?
As a former service member, I have a tremendous amount of respect for our military. I am very proud to know that I am continuing to support our military forces by providing intelligence expertise that aids decision-making on the frontlines.
- What does National Military Appreciation Month mean to you?
This is a time to reflect on the sacrifices our military members make every day.
- How do you plan to Remember, Honor and Support the military in May?
I am volunteering for the company’s Remember, Honor, Support 5k Walk/Run charity event, which benefits Fisher House. I will also be visiting Arlington National Cemetery to pay respects to all my fallen brothers and sisters with my two young children.
- If you could send one message to every military member, what would it be?
I know it’s tough out there, but keep strong, be safe and we are here if you need anything.
National Military Appreciation Month of May recognizes all military personnel who have served throughout our history, and those who are now serving in uniform. The month includes a number of special days, to include: Loyalty Day (May 1), Public Service Recognition Week (May 5-10), Victory in Europe Day (May 8), Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 10), Armed Forces Day (May 18), and Memorial Day (May 27).
For additional information about National Military Appreciation Month, visit www.nmam.org.