Honoring Redwood Veterans: Reflections on a Month of Gratitude and Stories of Service

As November comes to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the stories, experiences and lessons shared throughout the month in honor of Veterans Day. Our Redwood Ambassadors (both veterans and family members of those who served) opened a window into the pride, sacrifice, discipline and resilience that shaped their lives long before joining Redwood. 

Below are the stories shared by members of our Redwood team. 

Troy Williams – Marine Corps (1993–1997) 
Automated Information Systems Operator, Corporal (E4) 
Currently: VP of Information Services at Redwood 

Troy served in a newly emerging aviation logistics specialty during his time in the Marine Corps. Looking back, he credits the experience with shaping not only his technical foundation but also his approach to leadership and collaboration. 

He shared three guiding principles that continue to influence his work at Redwood: 

• Our differences strengthen us when we stay focused on a shared mission. 
• Hard work and joy can coexist—and should.
• Tact and diplomacy matter, not only in the military but in how we communicate and grow as a company and a country. 

“Joining the Marine Corps was the best decision of my life,” Troy reflected. “It opened doors, helped build my character, and set me on the path that brought me here.” 

Chris Gilmore – U.S. Army Military Police Corps (1982–1988) 
Specialist Fourth Class (E4), 3rd Armored Division Honor Guard 
Currently: Service Technician at Redwood 

Chris’s service included earning the Army Achievement Medal and multiple commendations while representing the 3rd Armored Division Honor Guard. His time in uniform instilled values that continue to guide him today: loyalty, honor, respect and service. 

“It was my honor to have proudly served,” Chris wrote, carrying forward the traditions of his father, brother, and uncles. 

Danielle Weherley – Honoring Her Family’s Service 
Currently: Neighborhood Manager at Redwood 

While Danielle did not personally serve, she shared tremendous pride in the service of her husband, father and father-in-law. 

Her husband served in the U.S. Army from 1998–2004 as a Black Hawk Crew Chief before continuing in the Air Guard, working on Reaper aircraft. Her father served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era on a submarine rescue cruiser, and her father-in-law served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam. 

Their multigenerational service reminds us that military sacrifice impacts not only those who serve, but the families who stand behind them. 

Jim Gourley – U.S. Navy (1988–1994) 
Builder, Second Class Petty Officer (E-5) 
Currently: Service Technician at Redwood 

As a member of the Navy’s construction and combat unit—the Seabees—Jim played a crucial role in construction and disaster-relief efforts around the world, including in Panama during Operation Just Cause and in the Middle East during Operation Desert Storm. Later, he also served as a command investigator. 

His military experience strengthened skills he uses daily at Redwood: organization, accountability and pride in craftsmanship. 

“There’s no place like home,” Jim shared while reflecting on returning from combat. Words that resonate with gratitude and perspective. 

Daniel Penaherrera – U.S. Army (2014–2018) 
Correction and Detention Specialist (31 Echo) 
Currently: Service Technician at Redwood 

Daniel joined the Army as soon as he could and proudly served alongside a family deeply rooted in military tradition. His father, sister and brothers have all served in the Army, with his father retired and his brother still actively serving. 

“Thank you, fellow Vets, for your service,” Daniel wrote, extending encouragement to his battle buddies who continue to serve today. 

Reflecting on a Month of Appreciation 
This season of gratitude reminds us that service takes many forms: on the battlefield, in emergency response, in technical roles and across generations of families who support their loved ones in uniform. The stories shared by our Redwood Ambassadors highlight not just moments in time, but values that continue to influence who they are today. 

Thank you to every veteran within the Redwood team and to the families who support them. Your experiences enrich our culture, your values strengthen our mission, and your stories inspire us far beyond the month of November. 

We are grateful for your service, and we are honored to learn from you.