Infantry Officer Doug Jones
Service: 2008-2015
Platoon Leader and Company Commander
Deployment: Operation Enduring FReedom (OEF) 10-11, Kunar
Province, Afghanistan
Awards: Bronze Star, Bronze Star with "Valor", Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Meritorious Service Medal
TAKING OFF THE UNIFORM DOESN’T MEAN YOU’RE NOT A SOLDIER—YOU’RE A SOLIDER FOR LIFE
For me, the meaning of Veteran’s Day has shifted over the years. When I was still serving, the day was more about honoring our traditions, both in the Army and in our unit. We would always bring in veterans from the same unit who had served in past conflicts, and we would hear about their experience. It was more retrospective.
Now that I’ve transitioned out of the military, Veteran’s Day is more of a reminder to thank those who are still serving. On a personal note, it’s an opportunity for me to talk to my sons about the military, what service means, and why we have Veteran’s Day. They’re 6 and 2 now, and they’re starting to understand a lot more. I make it a point to instill the importance of this day in them.
I’m grateful to be at Cushman & Wakefield and for the growing number of companies that are harnessing the incredible potential of our veterans in the workforce. We have a phenomenal Veterans Initiative Program here, and I’m proud to see Cushman & Wakefield leading by example.
