In the U.S., May is recognized as Military Appreciation Month – a special month to pause and recognize the many contributions of our troops, past and present. And, in honor of Military Appreciation Month, I’m reflecting on the many incredible life experiences I’ve had as an officer in the U.S. Air Force for eight years and as a long-time Kellogg Company employee.

I’ve traveled the country, served as a registered dietitian, and led the dietary department at Mather Air Force Base hospital in Sacramento, Calif. I even performed in the Super Bowl XIX halftime show with the Tops in Blue – a touring ensemble of active duty U.S. Air Force members – and danced in a larger than life piano! (The Super Bowl halftime shows have certainly come a long way since then!)

However, there’s one memory that stands out above the rest. Last spring, I served as a Guardian for a Korean War veteran’s Talons Out Honor Flight. Honor Flights are roundtrip flights that transport U.S. military veterans to see their respective war memorials in Washington, D.C., at no cost to the veterans.  Guardians participate in the experience by serving as travel escorts for the veterans.

As a Korean War veteran, the gentleman I escorted never received a homecoming upon his return from service. Standing with him when we arrived home from visiting the Korean War Memorial in Washington D.C., in front of a cheering crowd, was a very moving experience. It was a sincere privilege to see this veteran receive a long overdue recognition for his service to our country. I’ll never forget the look in the eyes of this quiet, reserved gentleman – it was one of pure emotion and gratitude. I was truly humbled and grateful to stand by his side.

This never would have been possible without the many opportunities I’ve had and the connections I’ve made at Kellogg and as a member of its KVets & Supporters (KVets) Business/Employee Resource Group (B/ERG). Kellogg has a long history of supporting our military and continues to advocate, recruit and develop veteran employees so they can flourish and thrive.

KVets offers a variety of internal and external engagement and networking opportunities including: gravestone cleaning at the local national cemetery, fundraising drives for local military families, recruiting events and so much more. The B/ERG is dedicated to celebrating military service and recognizing the benefits brought to Kellogg by those who serve.

As a veteran, I’m proud to work for a company that is truly committed to living our founder’s values and making inclusion and diversity top priorities. Veterans bring valuable, diverse experiences and skillsets to the company and Kellogg is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

For more information on our veteran hiring opportunities, be sure to visit our Kellogg Veterans Career website here.