A Salute to Service: Major Cashen's Story of Dedication

Today, on Veterans Day, we proudly honor and thank all those who have served in the armed forces, along with their families, for their dedication and sacrifices. As part of this tribute, we are shining a spotlight on one of our own—Major Cashen, our Marketing Intelligence Manager. Major Cashen’s story exemplifies the courage, commitment, and leadership that define the veteran spirit, and we are honored to share his journey with you.

Can you share a bit about your military background and experience?

I joined the army through my college’s ROTC program.? My reasons for joining were threefold; I wanted to have experiences you can’t get anywhere else (like command a battle tank!), I wanted to do something meaningful, and I wanted to pay for college … not necessarily in that order. My army experience provided all 3; I was commissioned as an armor officer (tanks!), I eventually was deployed during the Second Gulf war, and the US Government paid for my undergraduate degree from Duke University.? Not a bad deal!

What does Veterans Day mean to you personally?

While I often joke that Veteran’s Day is my favorite holiday because I can get a free doughnut or milkshake, it really means much more to me.? When I joined the army, the US had not been engaged in a war in over 15 years. To most of us joining at the time, the idea of going into combat seemed like remote possibility.? As things worked out, though, the first Gulf War started in my senior year of college, and it seems like we have been involved in some sort of active conflict ever since.? As a result, so many fine young men and women have given their lives and limbs in the past 30 years in the service for their country, and this type of sacrifice needs to be recognized and reflected upon at Veteran’s Day.? I count myself incredibly fortunate that I was deployed in a non-combat logistics role in Kuwait, and not in Iraq or Afghanistan where many I knew served.? These people are the heroes, and I am proud to be even associated with them as a veteran.

How has your military experience influenced your approach to work at MMNA?

My military experience has probably influenced my approach to work at MMNA, and life in general, in more ways than I know.? However, one thing comes immediately to mind.? Early in my officer training we were taught to embrace the phrase “Mission First, People Always.”?? As a young cadet that phrase always stuck with me.? At first the paradox bothered me. Which is more important, the mission or the people? In time I realized the answer that question is “Yes!”? The most important thing is to accomplish the mission, but that taking care of the people involved is equally important.? I believe that philosophy is equally relevant for business leaders to embrace.? Throughout my career I have always tried to adopt this mantra when leading a team.? Happily, in my short time here at MMNA I believe the management team espouses this view as well.

What skills or values from your time in service have you found most helpful in your civilian career?

When I was deployed to Kuwait during the Second Gulf War, my wife was pregnant with our first child.? While I was in no way unique in this circumstance, it certainly hit home the concept of work/life balance for me. While I missed most of my wife’s pregnancy and the first 6 months of my daughter’s life, the experience taught me to value what was most important – family.? When I returned home and went back to my civilian job, I made sure I attended every school event, life event, etc. that I could, even if maybe it wasn’t the best decision for my career because it meant missing a meeting or two.? I don’t regret missing any of those meetings!??

What are some key lessons from your time in the military that you bring to your everyday work?

The army drilled in me a concept of time management when leading a team that I still try to use today. One of the main tenets is the 1/3 - 2/3 rule.? The rule states that leaders should spend no more than 1/3 of the time allocated for a mission or project on the planning phase. The other 2/3 is devoted to individuals and teams working on the project. The way I think about this in business is you need to give your team plenty of time to accomplish the objective, but you also need take time to plan your approach as well, so they are given the right direction.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your job here?

Far and away the most rewarding aspect of my job have been the people here at MMNA.? Everyone has made me feel truly welcome and valued, from the first interview to this very day.? I have worked in quite a few companies in my career, and I know that this may sound corny, but the people here are something special.

As we reflect on the immense sacrifices and dedication of those who have served, we remain deeply grateful for veterans like Major Cashen, whose commitment continues to inspire us every day. To all veterans and their families—your courage, strength, and service do not go unnoticed. Today and always, we honor you. Thank you for all you have given.