Honoring and supporting our veterans

November 10, 2023

Years at Deloitte: 7
Role: Transactions & M&A | real estate valuation manager | Risk & Financial Advisory | Deloitte & Touche LLP
Continued service at Deloitte: Military, Veterans, Spouses & Allies Community (MVSA), CORE Leadership Program

As we welcome the fall season and prepare for the upcoming holiday festivities, we stand on the threshold of a remarkable day—Veterans Day. This is a day we set aside to pay our heartfelt respects and gratitude to the courageous men and women, some of whom I have had the privilege of serving alongside, and who continue to serve our great nation.

I am profoundly honored to be part of this exceptional community. My personal journey into the military was far from predestined. As a first-generation Mexican-American, my parents harbored dreams of their eldest son pursuing higher education rather than military service. Growing up in the 90s, the Marine Corps' stirring television commercials, depicting recruits overcoming daunting challenges to become "the few and the proud," left an indelible mark on me. The decision to join the Marines was not without its trials, as my mother shed tears for what felt like an eternity when I first broached the subject. This ultimately led to a delay in my enlistment as I ventured into college. Yet, two years later, the call to be a part of something greater grew louder, and in October 2008, I took the oath to serve in the United States Marine Corps. I embarked on my journey, heading to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego in February 2009, and I served honorably until 2013.

In my family, there was no tradition of military service. I became the first to proudly bear the distinguished label of a veteran. However, I was not alone in my journey. Both of my younger brothers, Miguel and Alex, also followed in my footsteps and became Marines. They, too, bear the honor of being veterans and continue to make our family proud.

My professional journey at Deloitte has undoubtedly been greatly influenced by my military service. This profound connection to that community has ignited a deep passion within me to give back to our fellow service members in any way I can. I am honored to serve as a member of the leadership team for the Military, Veterans, Spouses & Allies Community (MVSA) group, and I also actively contribute to the CORE Leadership Program, where I serve as faculty and help oversee special projects. Through these roles, I have had the privilege of witnessing the transformative impact that veterans make, not only in the workplace but also within our communities.

As we observe Veterans Day, let us remember the sacrifices, the unwavering commitment, and the unity that defines our veterans. They are living testaments to the values and virtues that make our nation great.

Join us in celebrating and expressing our gratitude to these exceptional individuals on this Veterans Day.