As November unfolds and we embrace the season of gratitude, we find ourselves reflecting on the core values that define Southridge Technology. Among these values is the commitment to support not only our clients but also other small businesses, and to honor those who have served our country. This month, we want to take a moment to express our deep appreciation for our veterans who are part of our team, as well as extend our thanks to all our readers who have served in the armed forces.
Veterans are the embodiment of discipline, dedication, and a strong work ethic. We are proud to have outstanding veterans as integral members of our team, contributing their unique skills and perspectives to help us better serve our clients. Their experiences in the military have instilled in them a sense of teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability that aligns perfectly with the values we hold dear in our company.
This November, we salute our veteran team members: Freddy Padilla and Hugo Canedo, as well as others who have chosen to remain anonymous. Each of them brings their distinctive strengths to our company, and their military background has played a pivotal role in shaping the way we operate and serve our clients.
Freddy Padilla
“At the age of 18, fresh out of high school, I made a decision that would shape the course of my life. I enlisted in the United States Army as a 25H Network Communication Systems Specialist. This decision was not made lightly but with a deep sense of patriotism and a desire to serve my country.
The role of a 25H is a critical one. We are responsible for ensuring that the lines of communication remain open, a task that is vital in the military. This role requires technical expertise, a keen understanding of complex systems, and the ability to work under pressure. It is a challenging role, but one that I embrace wholeheartedly.
My service has taken me to places I never imagined I would go. One of my most memorable destinations was overseas to the city of Daegu in South Korea. The bustling streets, the rich culture, and the warm people made my time there unforgettable. But it was also a time of intense work, of ensuring that our communication systems were functioning optimally, of being a small but crucial cog in the vast machinery of the military.
From Korea, my journey took me to Fort Carson, Colorado, a destination that presented its own unique challenges. The conditions were tough, but they served to strengthen my resolve and deepen my commitment to my role.
Throughout my service, I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated and courageous individuals I have ever known. Their unwavering commitment to our country, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their unyielding spirit of service have been a constant source of inspiration.
As I reflect on my journey from a high school graduate to a soldier of the Army, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. I am proud of the work I have done, of the challenges I have overcome, and of the contribution I have made to my country. I am grateful for the experiences I have had, for the people I have met, and for the lessons I have learned. I am deeply grateful for the invaluable experiences and opportunities I have been afforded during my time at Southridge Technology. The unwavering support and the enriching environment have significantly contributed to my professional growth and for that, I am truly thankful.
My journey is not unique. It is shared by countless others who have chosen the path of service, who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms and upholding our values. As we commemorate Veterans Day, let us honor these brave men and women, let us remember their sacrifices, and let us express our gratitude for their service.”
Hugo Canedo
Hugo’s journey started when he enlisted in the United States Navy. He has been marked by an impressive array of roles, including service as a Navy Corpsman in the Scout Sniper Platoon, specializing in Explosive Ordnance Disposal support, Tactical Explosive Breaching, Foreign Weapons Instruction, and serving as a Tactical Combat Casualty Care instructor. Additionally, Hugo is recognized as a Canine Combat Medical Management Provider.
Hugo’s postings have taken him to various regions, including Southeast Asia, Southwest Asia, Central/South America, Europe, and several African countries, where he has applied his expertise in diverse and challenging environments.
Outside of his military commitments, Hugo is deeply engaged in his hobbies, particularly as an assistant instructor in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Filipino Martial Arts with Warriors Way International East. His passion for content creation and videography further showcases his diverse skills and interests.
When not immersed in his professional and martial pursuits, Hugo enjoys savoring his favorite foods—tacos and dim-sum. As he reflects on his journey from enlistment to his multifaceted roles and personal interests, Hugo takes pride in the contributions he has made and the diverse experiences that have shaped his life.
But our gratitude extends beyond our own team. To our readers who have served in the armed forces, we offer our sincerest thanks for your dedication, sacrifice, and service to our country. Your commitment to protecting our nation has allowed us to thrive and build a small, mighty economy. We understand that your experiences have shaped you in ways that resonate with our own values, and we are proud to have you as part of our extended Southridge family.
In this season of Thanksgiving, we encourage everyone to express their appreciation for veterans and active-duty service members in their lives. Let’s remember that by supporting each other, be it through patronizing small businesses or thanking our veterans, we build a stronger and more closely-knit community.
We look forward to continuing to serve our clients and community with the same spirit of dedication and gratitude that defines this wonderful month of November.
