At TIAG, over 25% of the family are Veterans, and many more are connected through loved ones who have served. Our Voices of Valor is a dedicated Virtual Wall of Honor celebrating our Veterans’ stories and their lasting impact on our communities. These stories are the threads that weave our community together, a place where TIAG-ers can share their own story of service or pay tribute to a family member or friend who has.
TIAG-er Steve Vincent dedicated 25 years to the Navy, where he held various roles, culminating in his position as Commanding Officer of the USS GERMANTOWN (LSD 42). After joining TIAG in 2012, he has excelled as Project Manager and Sr. Business Development Manager, currently serving as Technology Partnerships Manager. Steve is a passionate advocate for veterans, drawing from his transition experience to help others navigate their paths to civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of accountability and teamwork—principles that guided him in the military—and enjoys mentoring emerging leaders within TIAG. Steve believes that fostering an inclusive environment allows veterans to thrive, and he takes pride in helping them find opportunities to succeed and contribute to the mission.
One such story is that of William B. Leonard, who was drafted into the U.S. Army in March 1941 and served for 33 years before retiring in April 1974 as a Colonel. During World War II, he fought in the Asiatic Pacific Theater, participating in operations such as the Guam recapture and the Okinawa invasion, where he was wounded and awarded a Purple Heart. His career included significant overseas and stateside roles, culminating in a retirement that left a mark on military logistics. His family remembers him for his service and as a remarkable person.
We also honor the Falk Family, whose military heritage runs deep. James P. Falk (US Army), along with his sons Cory (US Army) and Taylor (US Army), continues this legacy of service. James served as a Corporal in the Infantry, part of the mechanized 2nd Battalion of the 16th Infantry. While his unit was not deployed during Operation Urgent Fury, they were briefed after the operation began, with their duffel bags and gear ready. Though they did not see action, their readiness and willingness to serve embody the values of duty and honor instilled by their grandfathers, Manuel James “Jim” Falk, Captain (US Air Force & Army), and Clarence Randall Olsen (US Navy). Their journey reflects individual courage and an unwavering commitment to freedom and safety.
Another voice of valor is George L. Stolte, who enlisted in the U.S. Army while studying at Penn State in 1943. Serving in North Africa, Italy, and Southern France as part of the 157th Infantry Regiment—known as the Thunderbirds—George faced the realities of war, sustaining wounds in August 1944. After his honorable discharge in 1945, he pursued a degree in veterinary medicine and served his community as a veterinarian in Maple Shade, NJ. His journey shows the resilience of our veterans, who continue to serve in various ways long after their military service.
Another remarkable story comes from TIAG-er, Barb Strittmatter, whose father flew a stripped-down B-25 into occupied China during WWII, landing under fire to pick up 11 survivors of the Doolittle Raid—a story of his heroism that was only revealed by chance. Her paternal grandfather served in the Spanish-American War, while her maternal grandparents proudly displayed 5 service stars for their sons during WWII. Barb’s memories include plotting her brother’s whereabouts as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam and visiting her youngest brother throughout his 20+ years of military service. On this Veterans Day, she celebrates their legacy of service and that of many family members and friends who have served.
Jessica Gill shares a heartfelt tribute to her grandfather, Urban Gaier, who served during World War II. “He did not talk about his experience serving during the war much. I think he found the memories to be too painful and overwhelming to resurface,” Jessica recalls. Despite the weight of his past, Urban Gaier became a pillar of strength, creating a loving and steady presence for his family.
His ability to navigate the complexities of his trauma while moving forward with grace speaks to the resilience and silent strength shared by so many veterans. Jessica’s reflections highlight the quiet dignity of those who carry the burden of their wartime experiences without fully revealing the scope of their sacrifices.
Through her tribute, Jessica honors her grandfather’s legacy, celebrating his unwavering strength and the profound impact of his service—both in uniform and in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Stories like Urban Gaier’s remind us of our veterans’ enduring strength and sacrifices, inspiring generations to come.
As we conclude our tribute to the voices of valor at TIAG, let us remember that the spirit of service extends beyond military ranks. The stories shared here remind us of the strength and commitment that veterans embody, enriching our culture and driving our mission forward. This Veteran’s Day, we encourage everyone to take a moment to honor those who have served—both in the past and present. Together, we can ensure that their legacy of courage and sacrifice continues to inspire us all. Thank you to our veterans and their families for your dedication and being integral members of the TIAG family.