We are proud to be a Certified Veteran-Owned Business. Not only that, we also have a number of employees who have served in the military.
United Direct Solution’s representation of veterans in the workforce evinces our firm commitment to diversity.
Our Veteran-Owned Status Qualifies Us as a Diverse Supplier
Businesses searching for a diverse supplier will find an exemplary partner in United Direct Solutions.
The FDIC’s Financial Institution Diversity program highlights veteran-owned businesses as key examples of such suppliers.
This emphasis is crucial, considering that according to the U.S. Census, businesses owned by veterans represent less than 6% of all businesses.
Given this limited representation, it’s clear that business owners with a military service background bring essential diversity to the commercial landscape.
Veteran Employees: The Heart of United Direct Solutions
With a team that includes many remarkable individuals who have served in the military, the contribution of these veterans to United Direct Solutions is immensely valued. Their wealth of experience, dedication, and discipline are evident in every task they undertake.
The veterans who enrich our team are Bob Ackerman, Will Edwards, Leon Heard, Lee Kirkwood, Timothy Naquin, Jimmy Ponder, Steven Shawler, Thomas Weldon, Kevin Davis.
Kevin Davis, Production Supervisor
Steven Shawler, Material Handler
Jimmy Ponder, Team Lead
Lee Kirkwood, Founder
Leon Heard, Machine Operator
Will Edwards, Shipping Clerk
These individuals are essential members of our team. Each veteran brings something special and vital to the company. They have a wide range of skills and experiences that can be directly traced to their service.
A Legacy of Service
We take pride in featuring our employees, with our veterans receiving a special acknowledgment. For example, we invite you to explore the story of Dave Renke, an Air Force veteran and the Lettershop Manager at United Direct Solutions, in our Employee Spotlight series.
When veterans like those named above finish their time in the military, it doesn’t mean they stop serving.
They bring their skills and experiences to civilian jobs, where they continue to positively impact.
Our Promise of Excellence
As a Certified Veteran-Owned Business, United Direct Solutions is committed to doing things with the highest quality, honesty, and professionalism. This promise doesn’t just apply to our team but to every part of what we do, from planning projects to making them happen.
Veteran Spotlight: Lee Kirkwood
Lee Kirkwood, founder of United Direct Solutions, balanced careers in banking and insurance with active military service before he went on to found United Direct Solutions. He is the reason we qualify as a Veteran-Owned Business and diverse supplier.
Lee joined the United States Air Force in 1967. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant.
From there he began USAF Flight Training. Lee was recognized as an outstanding student. Upon graduation he was offered the position of flight instructor at the United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado. His master instructor certification was earned in record time.
In 1971 Lee became a T-37 Flight Instructor in the Columbus Air Force Base in Mississippi.
In the US Air Force Lee played many roles, including Flight Commander and Standardization Officer. His final active-duty rank was Captain.
This service was balanced with a career as a pilot and instructor at the Kentucky Air National Guard, a position that lasted from 1974 to 1990.
There, he attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, retiring with around 5,000 instructor and fighter aircraft flying hours.
Retirement from military service was only the beginning of a successful career as an entrepreneur.
After spending some time in banking and insurance, Lee Kirkwood founded United Direct Solutions (formerly known as United Mail).
We’re Proud of Our Veteran-Owned Status
We here at United Direct Solutions are proud to be part of a veteran-owned business.
For more information about our journey as a Certified Veteran-Owned Business, you can read more about the subject here.
Working Towards a Better Future Together
When businesses choose to work with us, they’re choosing a partner who believes in diversity, inclusivity, and doing things the right way. Our team is ready to work together with you to reach your goals and go above and beyond what you expect.
We strive to be more than just a supplier. We’re a partner who wants to help make the business world more inclusive and better for everyone. With our team of experienced veterans and our strong commitment to doing things right, we’re ready to lead the way in making positive changes in the business world.
Let’s work together to build a future that celebrates diversity, values service, and aims for excellence. Get in touch with us today, and let’s start this journey together.
