In appreciation of their service and sacrifice, on Friday November 11th, we invite all veterans to
save 10% off your total order*
plus receive a free reusable bag.**

Just tell the cashier that you are a veteran or active duty service member.

Thank you for your service.

*Excludes sales on items prohibited by law, pharmacy items, alcohol, bottle deposits, postage stamps, gift cards and other non-merchandise.
**Excludes thermal bags and boxes and collapsible tote boxes.

Peter B.
Bakery Specialist/Baker

US Coast Guard, Substance Specialist E-4

Longmeadow
Years with Big Y: 12 years

Why did you choose to serve in the armed forces?
“I wanted to give back to my country and I knew I was not ready for college. When I completed my duties, I did go to college and earned a degree.”

Why did you choose this particular service branch?
“The Coast Guard main objective is to save lives…I liked that… I also love the water.”

Cindy R.
Assistant Floral Sales Manager

US Navy E-3

South Hadley
Years with Big Y: 19 Years

Why did you choose to serve in the armed forces?
“I joined the service to serve and fight for my country. I would serve again if allowed.”

Why did you choose this particular service branch?
“I chose the Navy as they offered the best benefits for my needs. I believe the service made me who I am today- strong, trustworthy, independent and ready for anything that comes my way.”

Deb T.
Asst. Floral Sales Manager

US Marine Corp, Sergeant

Longmeadow
Years with Big Y: 12 years

Why did you choose to serve in the armed forces?
“I chose to serve to have a good starting direction in life, and I chose the Marines because I thought it was the most superior branch and wanted the best!”

Benjamin B.
Meat/Seafood Sales Manager

US Army National Guard Military Police

Westfield
Years with Big Y: 14 years

Why did you choose to serve in the armed forces?
“I chose to serve in the armed forces because I wanted to do something that was patriotic and I thought it would be a great experience for me.”

Why did you choose this particular service branch?
“I chose this branch because I wanted to the join the Army and I liked that I would perform both Federal and State Functions. It allowed me to pursue an education full time and work a part time job with Big Y and service my country and community in times of a natural disaster crisis.”

Edward J. Jr.
Meat Specialist

US Air Force Military Police Sergeant E-5

Pittsfield
Years with Big Y: 21 years

Why did you choose to serve in the armed forces?
“I knew at a young age that I wanted to join the military and serve my country.”
“My father and grandfather were my biggest influencers. My father served in the Marine Corp. and US Air Force. My grandfather served in the Marines during WWI.”
“I first tried to enlist in the Marine Corps, but was disqualified. I had depth perception issue with my eyesight. That was a no-go for enlistment and being on a ship. Discouraged, but not out of options, I decided to try the navy to see if it also had the same rules. My recruiter said it was possible, but in the end, I was told they could not take me.”

Why did you choose this particular service branch? 
“As I was leaving his office, I happened to run into the Air Force recruiter. He introduced himself and we struck up a conversation. I told him my plight, and he asked if I would consider serving in the Air Force. I told him yes, and he went to work for me. They were able to get a waiver for me, and I was able to enlist and serve in the US Air Force. About a year after being discharged, I was able re-enlist in the US Army National Guard and serve once again. It was truly an honor and privilege.” 

Steven S.
Beer Sales Associate

Chief Master Sergeant, Air National Guard

Table & Vine Flagship 
Years with Big Y: 4 years

Why did you choose to serve in the armed forces?
“I chose to serve in the Armed forces for the structure and discipline. I realized at the age of 17 in order for me to be successful I needed those two critical aspects in my life.”

Why did you choose this particular service branch?
“I was always drawn to fighter Aircraft. I grew up near Bradley airport and I would see the jets fly overhead constantly and was always fixated on them when they flew by. My high school hockey coach was a member of the unit. He brought me up for a visit during my senior year. After meeting many members and having a chance to see the facilities and ask questions I was hooked. After that visit there was no question the Air Force was where I was headed.”

Darrin P.
Wine Sales Associate

US Air Force, Technical Sergeant

Table & Vine Flagship
Years with Big Y: 17 years 

Why did you choose to serve in the armed forces?
“My father was in the Air Force and stationed in Germany. He took me to his hanger one Saturday and I saw the F-4 Phantom up close and I knew that was what I wanted to do when I got older. I was six years old at the time.”

Why did you choose this particular service branch?
“I wanted to join the Air Force first but my older brother joined the Navy and was an aircraft engine mechanic and was sending me pictures home from the aircraft carrier. I joined the Navy instead as an aircraft structural/hydraulic mechanic. I crossed over to the Air Force 15 years later and retired with 24 years of service.”