Veterans Spotlight
Eggleston values everyone who supports our mission to train, educate, and employ people of all abilities across Hampton Roads. We are especially proud of our employees who have chosen to come and work with us following their service to our country. Our Veterans help make Eggleston great! We are dedicated to employing those who served and appreciate the wealth of experience, knowledge and skills Veterans bring to their jobs here at Eggleston.
Our Warrior Bridge program is an important way we support the employment and success of Veterans in Hampton Roads. This program is designed to meet any veteran where they are in their career path and support their efforts to become employed, self-sustained and a productive member of our community.
Ron Pierce
United States Navy 1999-2012
Where were you born and raised? “San Diego, CA”
What branch of military did you serve in? “U.S Navy”
How many years did you serve in the military? “13 yrs (1999-2012)”
What made you decide to join the military? “I wanted to travel and see the world”
What was your job in the military? “I was Sonar Technician Second Class- I operated combat-system equipment to identify, track and collect scientific undersea data used for boat defense and navigation.”
What commands were you assigned to?
- Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Ctr.
- USS Rodney M Davis (FFG 60)
- Surface Combat Systems Center, Wallops Island
- USS Stethem (DDG 63)
- USS Donald Cook (DDG 75)
What is your most memorable moment in the military? “Coming home after a 9 month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and seeing the pier full of people cheering for us. Everyone was misty-eyed. It was an amazing feeling to be returning home.”
How did the military benefit you personally and professionally?“It has allowed me to visit countries I could only have dreamed. It also helped me develop a very strong work ethic. ”
What is your favorite quote (if any)? “Ain’t nothing to it but to do it”
Other info you would like to share/hobbies?
“I’m proud to be a Veteran. I enjoy PC gaming,, weight lifting, photo editing, and DDP Yoga.”
How did the military benefit you in your current role with Eggleston? “The military emphasizes attention to detail which I apply daily in my current role with Eggleston. ”
Mary Lynette Clark
United States Navy 1985 – 2015
Where were you born and raised? “Saxton, PA”
What branch of military did you serve in? “United States Navy (Go Navy! Beat Army!)”
How many years did you serve in the military? “30 years, 1985-2015”
What made you decide to join the military? “Follow in grandfathers footsteps and to see the world. I also did not know what I wanted to study in college for a career so I knew it was not the right time to further my education.”
What was your job in the military? “Enlisted I was a Torpedoman’s Mate achieving the rank of E-7(Chief Petty Officer). Officer I was a Surface Ordnance LDO achieving the rank of O-4 (Lieutenant Commader).”
What commands were you assigned to?
- RTC Orlando, FL
- Naval Submarine Support Facility (NSSF) Groton, CT
- USS Yosemite (AD-19) Mayport, FL
- Naval Magazine, Guam
- NRD Houston, TX
- USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51)
- USS San Jacinto (CG-56)
- OHSAT Norfolk, VA
- USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71)
- Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV)
- Special Boat Team 21 Virginia Beach, VA
What is your most memorable moment in the military? “Way too many moments to choose just one.My oath of enlistment, shipmates, countries visited, launching Tomahawks during the war, the night sky at sea, scuba diving in Guam, sitting in VIP stands to watch Space Shuttle land, shellback ceremony, making Chief, making LDO.”
How did the military benefit you personally and professionally?“Personally: gave me direction; made me part of a team; it got me out of a small town that had nothing to offer; visited many countries my favorite being Greece.”“Professionally: I got to see and experience many jobs which helped me select a job I loved; continuous job skills and leadership training; paid for my education.”
What is your favorite quote (if any)? “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a Ride!” – Hunter S Thompson
Other info you would like to share/hobbies?
“Read: currently reading books by Ken Follet.”“Cook: food is my love language for family and friends.”“ATV-UTV 4-wheeling with my niece and nephews.”“Pittsburgh Steelers”
How did the military benefit you in your current role with Eggleston? “Each Sailor was unique and I loved training and guiding young Sailors to be the best professional and personal version of themselves. I was able to use this experience when I started at Eggleston as Intake Coordinator, then Employment Specialist, to my current position as a Program Coordinator.”
John Hopkins
United States Navy 1971 – 1996
Where were you born and raised? “Trucksville, Pa.”
What branch of military did you serve in? “World’s Greatest NAVY!”
How many years did you serve in the military? “From 1971 – To 1996”
What made you decide to join the military? “I wanted to get out of Trucksville and begin a career.”
What was your job in the military? “Communications & Beachmaster – My job was to provide support to combat ready Beach Units during amphibious operations while deployed around the world.”
What commands were you assigned to? “USS NEWPORT, CINCLANTFLT, USS HOIST, FLEET TRAINING CENTER, BEACHMASTER UNIT TWO, USS SHREVEPORT, USS HERMITAGE, USS PEGASUS, USS PONCE, USS SAIPAN, DAM NECK, USS AMERICA.”
What is your most memorable moment in the military? “The unique honor and experience of being selected and initiated as a Navy Chief and ultimately retiring as Navy Master Chief.”
How did the military benefit you personally and professionally? “The military exposed me to many different leadership styles and provided me the opportunity to demonstrate my talents in multiple commands.”
What is your favorite quote? “Wash your hands and wear your mask”
Other info you would like to share/hobbies? “GO EAGLES, GO PHILLY, GO SIXERS, GO FLYERS, GO PENN STATE!!!”
How did the military benefit you in your current role with Eggleston? “My leadership and management experience while in the military enables me to successfully manage the daily operations in my role as Eggleston’s Chief Engineer.”
Randal Patterson – Document Shredding Dept.
United States Marine Corps 1976 – 1983
Where were you born and raised? “Richmond, Va”
What branch of military did you serve in? “U. S. Marine Corps”
How many years did you serve in the military? “8 yrs. (1976-1983)”
What made you decide to join the military? “Growing up there were several neighbors that frequently referred to me as a momma’s boy and I was determined to prove them wrong, so I joined the Marine Corps.”
What was your job in the military? “I was a Field Radio Operator (MOS 2531), responsible for maintaining the expeditionary unit’s communication while deployed away from the command center.”
What commands were you assigned to? “Camp Lejeune, NC and Camp Pendleton, CA”
What is your most memorable moment in the military? “Due of my stellar performance, I was given the honor of being promoted to Staff Sergeant (SSgt) while deployed in the field.”
How did the military benefit you personally and professionally? “The military provided me with professional training, as well as personal discipline and leadership.”
What is your favorite quote? “Real Men Wear Black…..GO Raiders!”
Other info you would like to share/hobbies? “In my spare time I enjoy being an umpire for youth baseball.”
How has the military help prepare you for your position with Eggleston? “My experience in the military helped to improve my ability to listen and empathize with others which serves me well in my current role working with individuals with disabilities at Eggleston.”
Tamsyn Spence
United States Army 1997–2005
Where were you born and raised? “I spent all of my childhood years in Chesapeake County with my mom until the age of 9 when she passed then I was raised by my Aunt and Uncle.”
In what branch of the military did you serve? “Army and Army Reserve”
How many years did you serve in the military? “Eight years – from 1997 – 2005”
What made you decide to join the military? “I originally went into the military to get away from my living situation at the time. It later became a life challenge to accomplish and succeed.”
What was your job in the military? “As a Medic, my job was to provide emergency medical care for wounded soldiers.”
To what commands were you assigned? “Fort Leonard Wood (Boot Camp); Fort Sam Houston (AIT); Fort Carson (1st Duty Station); Illesheim, Germany (2nd Duty Station); Fort Story (Reserve Duty Station); Fort McCoy (2-Week Drill Assignment)”
What is your most memorable moment in the military? “Being in boot camp during the combat night training using night vision goggles and crawling under bob wire and thru trenches to survive, flares going over your head and your adrenaline going all over the place, firing your weapon to try and defeat the enemy. Although fun, I am very thankful it was just a training exercise rather than being faced with that task.”
How did the military benefit you personally and professionally? “It has taught me to live by the honor code and to strive to be as professional as possible. As a veteran of the military, it makes me proud when we are acknowledged and thanked for our service. Although I have never fought in war, I have helped a lot of soldiers while performing my duties as a Medic.”
What is your favorite quote (if any)? “Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you Luke 6:31”
How did the military benefit you in your current role with Eggleston? “It has given me a lot of medical training and knowledge to be able to successfully work with people with disabilities and being able to connect and understand them better. It has taught me patience, integrity, and selfless service that I provide to all the associates I work with at Eggleston.”
What other hobbies/interests do you have? “I am an Events and Party Planner! I run a business called “Elevation Party Planner” for all your birthday, wedding, baby shower, and bridal shower needs. I also love to make custom party favors and enjoy shopping and doing arts and craft projects.”
OS2 Michael Shackelford
United States Navy 1998-2002
Michael was born in Pasadena, CA and grew up in Santa Cruz, CA. After graduating high school, he attended Cabrillo College for a short period before deciding to serve in the U.S. Navy. He states his desire to see the world, leave home and serve our nation were factors that influenced his decision to join the military.
Michael attended Recruit Training in Great Lakes, IL in 1998, and then he attended Operations Specialist A School at Naval Base Dam Neck in Virginia Beach. As an Operations Specialist Michael was responsible for a wide range of technical information and assistance related to anti-warfare, gunfire support and search and rescue operations. He first reported to the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) in Norfolk where he made two deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
When asked about his most memorable moment, he replies “being underway in the Arabian Sea during the 9/11 attacks and having the opportunity to respond.” As he reflected on his time in the military, it was very apparent that Michael values the experience and memories of his naval service. He credits the Navy for developing his keen attention to detail and the ability to follow direct orders. Both these traits, he jokingly admits, have served him well as a husband too.
Michael is a huge supporter and fan of his native California sports teams. However, he enjoys attending local sporting events and wine clubs. One of his favorite quotes is “Do or Do Not. There is no try.”
Michael has been the Grants Manager at Eggleston since October 2017. He and his wife Christin reside in Norfolk.
SPC Kevin Pruden
United States Army 1972-1978
Kevin is a native of Norfolk, VA and served in the United States Army. He was first introduced to the military by his grandfather who served in the U.S. Coast Guard, and his decision to join the Army was influenced by his neighbor who was an Army recruiter.
Kevin completed Army Basic Training in Fort Jackson, S.C. After boot camp he transferred to Advance Individual Training (AIT) in Fort Dix, New Jersey, where he became Voice Radio Operator. After completing boot camp and AIT he reported to the 11th Armored Cavalry (Blackhorse) Regiment in Fulda, Germany for duty. Although Kevin had expected to perform the duties as a Voice Radio Operator, he quickly learned his role would change to a Small Arms Weapons Expert. He was responsible for the accountability and maintenance of small arms and ammunition.
Kevin recalls a story about his reunion with a fellow soldier he served with in Germany. After 46 years of separation they recently found one another on Facebook, and Kevin states, “I am definitely looking forward to seeing my battle buddy again.”
SPC Pruden is clearly proud of his service to our nation. He credits the Army for equipping him with the discipline, leadership and supervisory skills he possesses today.
One of his favorite quotes is “It’s all good.”
Kevin has been employed with Eggleston as a truck driver since September 2017. He and his wife reside in Norfolk where they rescue and adopt Rottweilers.
PFC Quintrina Gallop
United States Army 2000-2003
Trina was born and grew up in Norfolk, VA and served in the United States Army.
Multiple factors influenced Trina’s decision to join the Army. She was a member of JROTC at Maury High School and with several family members also serving in the military, she knew the Army would provide her the opportunity to travel and become self-sufficient.
Trina completed Army Basic Training in Fort Jackson, S.C. and Advance Individual Training (AIT) at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL., where she developed her skills and knowledge as an Army Ammunition Specialist. AIT provided her the skills to handle and maintain the Army’s ammunition, missiles and rockets. Trina spent the majority of her military career in Killeen, Texas at Fort Hood Army Base, maturing both personally and professionally. She states “my military experience helped me cultivate self-respect as well as respect for authority.” She also expresses gratitude for the long-lasting relationships she developed with her fellow soldiers while on active duty, many of whom she remains friends to this today.
Recalling memorable moments, Trina says that “enduring those 12 mile humps, sleeping in foxholes, rope repelling and ultimately graduating from basic training was unforgettable.” It’s clear that she is very proud to be a veteran with honorable service to our nation. She has no regrets, and if given the opportunity, says she’d do it all over again.
When asked to share one of her favorite quotes, she replies “Getting older is mandatory, but growing up is optional.”
Trina has been part of the Eggleston team as a Direct Support Professional since 2007. She and her family reside in Norfolk.
LNC (SW/AW) CRAIG LYONS
United States Navy 1995-2016
Craig (aka ‘Leroy’) grew up in Carpentersville, IL and made a decision to join the Navy during his junior year of high school. His naval career began at Navy Recruit Training Center, Great Lakes, IL.
After graduating from basic training and completing A-School, he reported to Air Anti-Submarine Squadron (VS-41) in San Diego, CA. His other duty stations included the USS Fitzgerald, USS Bataan and Naval Legal Service Office, Washington, DC.
When asked why he wanted to join the military, Craig stated “the Navy provided gave me a chance to move away from home and an opportunity to travel and see the world.”
Chief Lyons also expressed great joy in being able to travel to countries such as Japan, Italy, Singapore and Australia. However, one of his most memorable moments was being promoted to Chief Petty Officer while serving aboard the USS Bataan.
Chief Lyons admits that serving in the military taught him discipline and responsibility, raising him “from being a young boy to a professional young man.”
Craig has been a club member of Eggleston’s Beacon House since 2017. He shares that he would like to move forward from his injury to be a new person going in a positive direction. He also gives credit to his motorcycle club, Dirty Riders, for their continued love and support.
When asked to share a favorite quote, Craig says “Only stress about the things that you can control.”
CM2 Julie Waltz
United States Navy 1985-1993
Julie was born and grew up in Fort Dodge, Waterloo and Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
She joined the United States Navy because she wanted to see and experience the world.
Julie went to Basic Training in Orlando, FL. After boot camp she completed Construction Mechanic A-School where she was trained on the operational maintenance of light and heavy construction vehicles. Her tours of duty include Construction Battalion Unit (CBU) 401 in Great Lakes, IL, Public Works Division in Sigonella, Sicily and Special Warfare Group TWO, Norfolk, VA.
One of her most memorable moments was serving in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. She describes it as a very humbling and sobering experience. However, Julie states “while serving I met my husband and started my family. Meeting him and having our son were the best things to happen to me.”
Julie admits that serving in the military taught her discipline and equipped her with the tools to work through difficult situations. She is very proud to have served her country. “It is a sacrifice to serve and be away from home and loved ones while defending our country. Thank a service member or veteran each time you meet one and keep them in your thoughts and prayers.” says Julie.
Julie has been the Supervisor at Eggleston’s Embroidery and Screen Print Services since 2015.
When asked to share a favorite quote, she replies “D#mn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!”
SGT Donald A Malenovitch
United States Army 1985-1993
Donald was born and raised in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania and is happy that the Eagles won Superbowl 52!
When asked why he wanted to join the military, Donald replied that he needed to change his life for the better. At age 13 while in a foster home, he made a decision to change his life so that someday, his children could be proud of him.
Donald dreamed of going into the services and becoming a soldier. Upon graduation from high school, he went to Basic Training in Fort Benning, GA – Home of the Infantry. His first duty station was Garlstadt Germany, 4th Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Armored Division, where he served for three years. His military occupational skill was 11B Infantryman, later changing to 11M (Mechanized Infantryman), as well as operating the Bradley Fight Vehicle.
Donald served in Operation Desert Shield with the 5th Battalion – 18th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Armored Division from Friedberg, Germany. His company was responsible for securing a highway between Baghdad and Basra; processing over 200 Iraqi fighters in a single day.
One of Donald’s most memorable moments was serving as the Battalion Commander’s gunner on the M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle, when he shot a perfect score (1000 out of 1000) on the firing range. He was one of the best in his division.
Donald has been the Program Manager of Eggleston at Civitan since 2015. Donald has a true love for his country and believes that everyone should “be all they can be”.
When asked if he would do it all over again, without hesitation he replies “Sign me up!”
Tim Giles Honored at the “Still Serving” Awards
December 5, 2018
All of us at Eggleston are so proud of Tim Giles, Program Manager of Warrior Bridge, for being honored today at the “Still Serving” awards hosted by Military Newspapers of Virginia MNV and Flagship. Tim was in great company with veterans from all across Hampton Roads who choose to “Still Serve” their community with all that they do. From fostering dogs, saving lives and teaching health and wellness to helping at-risk children and our homeless, these folks live life in the service of others. And Tim Giles is no different! Tim helps all of us at Eggleston aspire to do more and be the best we can in our daily roles here in the office and out in our community. Tim is a Warrior for our Veterans every day; he helps those who cannot always help themselves with a leg up and a hand on their back just when they need it most. Please help us to congratulate Tim on a well-deserved honor and thank him for his continued service to our community and our Veterans.
Veteran’s Spotlight Tom Redinger
November 9, 2018
Where were you born and raised?Pittsburg, PA
What branch of military did you serve in?U. S. Navy
How many years did you serve in the military?20 yrs. (1976-1998)
What made you decide to join the military?“A Navy recruiter visited my High School and encouraged me to join the Navy Seabees or Civil Engineer Corps.”
What was your job in the military?“Construction Mechanic Petty Officer First Class. I was responsible for the repairs and maintenance of all heavy construction and automotive equipment.”
What commands were you assigned to?NAS Adak, Alaska, Diego Garcia, Naval Special Warfare Development Group, and several Naval Mobile Construction Battalions.
What is your most memorable moment in the military?“My final tour in the Navy serving with the Navy Seal Team Six was the best experience of my entire career.”
How did the military benefit you personally and professionally?“The military provided me with an education, training and skills to succeed as a professional.”
What is your favorite quote?“GO STEELERS !!!”
Other info you would like to share/hobbies?“I enjoy softball & basketball”
How has the military help prepare you for your position with Eggleston?“My training as a Construction Mechanic has equipped me with all the skills needed to perform the duties as Shop Supervisor of Eggleston Auto Center (EAC).”
Marchella Stevenson
November 8, 2018
Where were you born and raised?Catherine, Alabama
What branch of military did you serve in?U. S. Army
How many years did you serve in the military?22 yrs. (1989-2011)
What made you decide to join the military?“My Uncle was a veteran and wounded warrior, I was inspired to join the Army and continue the family legacy of service. I also desired to be a part of something greater than myself”
What was your job in the military?“I was responsible for Finance, ensuring that all Soldiers were paid accurately and on time which of course impacted unit readiness and their families quality of life”
What commands were you assigned to?“Fort Bragg Army Base with 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper and also the 7thTransportation Battalion.”
What is your most memorable moment in the military?“My most valued experience was hosting an Iraqi women’s day event while forward deployed in 2009 that highlighted the “strength of women.”
How did the military benefit you personally and professionally?“The military provided me the opportunity to travel and experience diverse cultures. It also provided me with a career and leadership training.”
What is your favorite quote?“If you’re going to bring me a problem, then recommend a solution”
Other info you would like to share/hobbies?“Photography”
How has the military help prepare you for your position with Eggleston?
“I credit the military for developing my ability to remain focused, flexible and to quickly adapt to different environments. These skills help me with my current position as a Rehabilitation Therapist with Eggleston.
Jim Smith
November 6, 2018
Where were you born and raised?Warrior, Alabama
What branch of military did you serve in?U. S. Navy
How many years did you serve in the military?28 years (1977 – 2005)
What made you decide to join the military?“I chose to join the military to avoid teenage mischief, get away from home and have an opportunity to establish a meaningful career.”
What was your job in the military?“Command Master Chief. I was the senior enlisted person onboard the ship responsible for the training and development of all enlist and junior officers”.
What commands were you assigned to?
- USS Berkeley (DDG I5)
- USS Elliot (DD 967)
- USS Bristol County (LST 1198)
- USS Rentz (FFG 46)
- USS Peleliu (LHA 5)
- USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41)
What is your most memorable moment in the military?“I had the honor of being a part of Stability Operations aboard USS Peleliu in 1999 supporting humanitarian efforts in East Timor to combat genocide and ethnic cleansing.”
How did the military benefit you personally and professionally?“The military gave him an opportunity to have a career serving my country and provided me with leadership skills. More important, while serving I met my lovely wife.”
What is your favorite quote (if any)?“Every day is a holiday, every meal is a feast, and every muster a family reunion.”
How has the military help prepare you for your position with Eggleston?“The organizational, leadership and management skills I developed while in the Navy enables me to perform my duties as Eggleston’s Government Contract Manager and the opportunity to continue to serve others”
Trevor Lucas
November 2, 2018
Where were you born and raised?Natchitoches, Louisiana
What branch of military did you serve in?U. S. Navy
How many years did you serve in the military?4 yrs. (1997 – 2000)
What made you decide to join the military?“At age 17 I was making some irresponsible decisions and my grandmother “strongly” encouraged me to join the military and began a career.”
What was your job in the military?“I was a Boatswain Mate Third Class Petty Officer responsible for the upkeep of ship’s external structure, painting rigging, deck equipment and small boats.”
What commands were you assigned to?USS Samuel B Roberts (FFG 58)
What is your most memorable moment in the military?“The opportunity to walk the streets of Rome and experience the culture and architect inspired and stimulated my appreciation for art. As a young artist, it was my moment of confirmation.”
How did the military benefit you personally and professionally?“The military created structure and purpose in my life. I acquired leadership skills and self-discipline which rescued me from a life of self-destructive behavior.”
What is your favorite quote (if any)?“Many hands make lite work”
Other info you would like to share/hobbies?“I enjoy boxing, singing and community service”
How has the military help prepare you for your position with Eggleston?“As the Production Manager in Embroidery Services I have to exercise leadership, organization and maintain a strong work ethic. The U.S. Navy gets the credit for that.”