Honoring ADP’s Veterans: A Tribute to Their Service

In this special tribute, we take a moment to recognize and honor the remarkable veterans who are part of the ADP family, shining a spotlight on their selfless contributions and the profound impact they’ve had on our organization and beyond.

DUNCAN DEES 

Branch of service: U.S. Army (Active and Reserve Component)

Rank: Enlisted as a Private First Class, retired as a Major

Where you served: Continental U.S., Middle East, Europe, Asia

When were you drafted or when did you enlist? Enlisted in January 2002

What do you remember about the day you enlisted? Waving goodbye to my wife, son, and daughter.

How did you tell your family and friends that you were joining the military? Are there any conversations that stand out from that time? I’ve enlisted, and I leave in 2 weeks. Most people asked me, “Why are you joining?”

If you enlisted, what were some of the reasons that you joined the military? How did you choose your branch of service? Initially, I didn’t intend to serve 20 years. My motivation was to provide better opportunities for my family and to do that, I needed a college degree. The GI Bill was the only way I could afford college. I chose the Army because a recruiter reached out to me.

What are some of the things you remember about adapting to military life? Toward the end of basic training I remember thinking how remarkable it was that a group of 60 people from all across the world – U. S. citizens and immigrants seeking citizenship – had come together from vastly different cultures and experiences and developed into a cohesive unit focused on achieving a common objective. During deployments, I remember admiring fellow soldiers who were consciously willing to mount-up and conduct their duty knowing each time that they may not come back from the mission. After deployments, I remember the relief of being at home with my family and worrying about those soldiers who didn’t have a similar support structure as we all attempted to transition back to “normal” life.

Is there someone you served with that you remember fondly? Can you tell me about him/her? Too many to list.

What did you learn about yourself? The mind and body are capable of much more than you may believe. You cannot fail if you never give up. Failure is not an option anyway.

KIM PILKAY 

Branch of service: U.S. Navy

Rank: AWC (Chief Petty Officer)

Where you served: Home Ported: Jacksonville, San Diego, and Japan

When were you drafted or when did you enlist? Enlisted in July 1986

What do you remember about the day you enlisted? I was very excited and it was a hot July day in Orlando.

How did you tell your family and friends that you were joining the military? Are there any conversations that stand out from that time? My father asked why I was home from work, I said I leave for the Navy in 4 days. My father said, “OK, I guess we will talk later.”

If you enlisted, what were some of the reasons that you joined the military? How did you choose your branch of service? My father was retired Army and we had lots of friends who were retired as well. 

Is there someone you served with that you remember fondly? I remember them all and each holds a place in my heart.

What did you learn about yourself? We are all stronger than we believe we are.