In recognition of Veterans Day on November 11, 2024, the Department highlights two dedicated employees who are veterans or active duty.  Thank you to Steven, Pat, and all others who bravely have served in our United States Armed Forces!

Steven Pavlov wearing a military uniform and smiling in front of a large military statue

Steven Pavlov, DDS Chief Financial Officer

“I joined the military because I wanted to give back to this country.  I immigrated from Russia as a child, and the U.S. has afforded me opportunities that I couldn’t have dreamt of,” said Steven Pavlov, DDS Chief Financial Officer

Steven has been a part of the DDS team for nearly 3 years and is serving in the California Army National Guard as an Infantry Officer for 12 years now.  He says his military experiences have taught him a great deal about leadership and empathy.  Steven believes it has supported his civilian career through significant skill and confidence building.

In recognition of Veterans Day, he says his biggest thank you goes out to the families of veterans and active military members.  Steven said, “As Soldiers, Marines, and Airmen, we largely know what we’re signing up for.  Our families unfortunately often have to come along for the ride.  They support us and endure hardships alongside us.  They carry the heaviest weight and deserve all our gratitude.”

 

 

Pat Flynn in a military uniform holding a framed letter and standing next to an American flagPat Flynn, DDS Workforce and Succession Planning Analyst

“I always wanted to serve my country.  Serving in the military definitely opened doors for me, and the training helped me be a better team member and leader,” said Pat Flynn, DDS Workforce and Succession Planning Analyst

Pat has been working at DDS for more than 9 months.  He served in the Army for 5 years right out of college, including as a Greek Linguist/Tactical Nuclear Weapons Platoon Leader in Greece and later as a Military Police Operations Officer in Maryland.

 


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