From protecting the country to honoring a family tradition to gaining exposure to cultures around the world, Freeport-McMoRan employees who have served in the U.S. military may have different reasons for enlisting. However, what they all have in common is the pride they take in that service.
“I joined the military because it was a family tradition at the time,” said Dusty Gatlin, Superintendent, Technical Training-Chino. “I’ve had family in every conflict we’ve had back to the Civil War. I joined initially and planned on serving four years before moving on. Once I was in, I loved it and stayed.”
Gatlin served in the U.S. Army and the National Guard, retiring after 23 years of service and three tours in Iraq. This time of year, Gatlin finds himself remembering those who made a similar commitment.
“Veterans Day for me every year is thinking about the friends and family that have served before me and continue to serve,” he said.
On Veterans Day, which falls on Saturday, the U.S. honors those who have served and sacrificed on behalf of our country. This includes nearly 1,000 Freeport employees who work in company locations around the world and have served our nation domestically and abroad, putting their lives at risk on behalf of those back home.