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Honoring Veterans: A Commitment to Community, Connection, and Camaraderie

Whether veterans are fresh out of military service or have been in the civilian workforce for years, it’s crucial they receive constant support and recognition. At Panasonic, the Veterans Business Impact Group (BIG) is committed to making a difference through building strong connections, giving back to the community, and tapping into the insights of seasoned military leaders. Their efforts extend beyond welcoming veterans -- they focus on empowering them with the tools and opportunities needed to succeed in their post-military careers.

 We honor our veterans not only through acts of service but by sharing and listening to their stories. It’s through this that we celebrate their contributions and experiences. Below, we’ll hear a range of perspectives on the significance of supporting veterans in the workplace and the ripple effect it has beyond.

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Community is a cornerstone of the veteran experience and in the military, camaraderie is a fundamental part of daily life. Veteran Eric Adorno, IT Service Delivery Supervisor and President of Panasonic Energy’s Veterans BIG, highlights the bonds formed during military service resemble those of a close-knit family, particularly among those who have deployed and experienced combat together.

“This sense of community is crucial for veterans because they relied on each other for emotional and physical support, safety, and survival. These deep connections are why having a supportive community in the workplace is so vital for veterans. It helps them find peace of mind, provides a space to share and understand their unique challenges, and fosters a sense of belonging.”

For veteran Alex Smith, Manager of Design Engineering at Panasonic Automotive (PASA) and Chair of the Veterans BIG, the evolution and progression of the veteran community at PASA is close to his heart. "In my early days at PASA, the vets only got to know each other in the smoking area," he recalls. However, as smoking declined, so did the interactions among veterans. Smith's mission has been to rekindle that camaraderie, contributing to a supportive space for veterans to connect.

Today, with around 28 self-identified veterans at PASA and a dedicated mailing list for open discussions, Smith feels a renewed sense of solidarity.

“If this community is half as important to others as it is to me, then I have completed my mission.”

For Smith, after witnessing the positive impact of the Veterans BIG over time, he found joy in discussing their initiatives with others. “Supporting those members as partners with local charities and being a friend and ear when needed is where I find the most meaning,” he adds. For Adorno, serving as President of the PENA Veterans BIG is profoundly personal. He shares the weight of loss from his deployment in 2008, saying, “The pain veterans endure during deployment and the invisible wounds we carry when we return are immense burdens." Adorno views his role as a chance to help veterans reconnect and find the camaraderie they experienced in the military. By fostering a supportive community, he aims to ensure that no veteran feels isolated or alone, creating a network for shared experiences and healing.

Jason Nieh, Sr. Specialist for Community Engagement and Operations at Panasonic, organizes many of the company’s volunteer events and speaks to why supporting the veteran population is such a key focus in his work. "I have tremendous respect for our veterans. They’ve dedicated their lives to serving our nation and its citizens, and that means many sacrifices and possibly trauma. It’s important in my work to give back to those who’ve given so much to us." Jason’s words reflect the deep appreciation we have for veterans and the commitment Panasonic makes to honoring their service through ongoing support and engagement.

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To our veterans - your sacrifices paved the way for our freedoms, and we honor that commitment every day. Thank you for your service; we are proud to stand with you. Learn more about Panasonic’s Veterans BIG and their impactful work. Visit our careers site to explore current job openings, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to keep up with Life at Panasonic. 

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