Each Veterans Day, we honor those who have served and sacrificed to protect our freedom. At NOBLE, many of our team members come from military backgrounds, reflecting our strong commitment to hiring veterans and military family members. This year, we spoke with Vince Griffith, Chief Growth Officer & EVP Global Programs, to hear his perspective on the significance of Veterans Day.
1. When did you enlist and what do you remember about that day?
I started Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, Rhode Island in 1982. I distinctly remember stepping out of the cab and immediately being yelled at by a drill instructor. That moment was an eye-opener for what was ahead, but what truly sticks with me the most was the experience of going out for morning colors. Standing there, saluting the flag, knowing that I was on the path to becoming a member of the Navy—that feeling of pride and honor was something I’ll never forget. It was a unique experience that solidified my commitment to serving my country.
(Vince’s portrait as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral )
2. Why did you join the military? How did you choose your branch of service?
I had an internship at Sears back in the day, where I met several former officers. I knew I wanted to work in a large business and eventually earn an MBA. When I asked for guidance on how I could achieve this, they suggested joining the military, and that resonated with me because I’ve always been patriotic. I started researching different branches, and the Navy stood out because they had the Supply Corps. It aligned with my interest in business, and it sounded like it was the only branch that offered what I was looking for in terms of career development.
(Supply Officer aboard the USS John C Stennis)
3. Where did you serve? How far did you travel during your years of service?
I had the opportunity to serve all over the globe. I was stationed in San Diego, Norfolk, Charleston, Washington, D.C., Jacksonville, Newport, and Groton Naval Submarine Base. While I was never stationed overseas, the Navy sent me to Iraq, Peru, Qatar, Kuwait, Afghanistan, London, Brazil, Italy, Spain, Columbia, Australia, Okinawa, Yokosuka, Sasebo, Djibouti, Bahrain, and Guam (just to name a few). The Navy gave me the chance to experience different perspectives across the world.
(Kabul, 2014)
4. How did your service broaden your perspective?
My service broadened the importance of teamwork. It’s one thing to work alongside others, but it's another to understand how critical it is to empower people to be their best. That’s how you build great teams. As I progressed in my career, I became more thoughtful and strategic in my approach. The Navy also taught me to be more mission-focused, and I’ve carried that mindset with me into civilian life.
(Commencement Keynote at Berry College, 2017)
5. How was your transition back to civilian life? Did your service create opportunities for you? Did you find it difficult to adjust to being a civilian again?
I didn’t find the transition back to civilian life difficult, it is part of why I love NOBLE. From the moment I joined, Tom [Noble] set me up with a mentor, Bob Urso, who had already made that transition from military to civilian life. NOBLE’s mission of supporting warfighters, partners, and agencies made it feel like I hadn’t really left the military. I didn’t change careers, I just changed from a military uniform to a civilian uniform. It was a perfect fit because of my experience with the Joint Services and how NOBLE operates in those same spaces. Having spent six out of my 36 years in the military assigned to DLA, I already knew about contracts and logistics, so it felt like a continuation of what I had been doing in uniform.
6. What does Veteran’s Day mean to you?
Veteran’s Day is a moment for reflection—for both veterans and the nation. It’s an opportunity for the country to pause and thank those who have served. It’s also a time for veterans like myself to reflect on our service and the sacrifices made. I make it a point to thank fellow veterans for their service whenever I can.
(With Tuskegee Airman, Brigadier General Charles Edward McGee in 2020)
7. What do you do on Veteran’s Day?
I used to speak at a lot of veterans’ groups, but now my focus is more personal. I’ll usually visit a veterans’ cemetery or stop by a senior living home. I’m also on the Virginia Board of Veteran’s Services. It gives me the chance to contribute to improving the quality of life for veterans in Virginia. One of the initiatives I’m particularly enthusiastic about is the Senior Living Committee, which is focused on enhancing the care and support for our aging veterans.
(Veteran’s Day speaking engagement in 2016)
8. What would you say to anyone considering a career in uniform?
I’d tell them it’s a fantastic way to learn about yourself and your capabilities. It’s an opportunity to serve our nation, travel the world, and gain skills that will serve you well in any career you pursue afterward. Whether you start as an E-1 or an O-1, there are endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.
(DLA supporting warfighters in Kabul, Afghanistan)
9. What was your perspective going from DLA to NOBLE? How did your military experience add value to NOBLE?
I deeply understand contracts, the DLA, and how the Navy works. My experience allows me to understand the Joint Service and NOBLE’s role from both sides of the table—what it means to be a warfighter and how we can help them accomplish their mission. I understand the pain points that different branches face and help NOBLE provide solutions for their requirements.
THANK YOU, VETERANS
To all the veterans at NOBLE and the millions worldwide, we offer our deepest gratitude for protecting the freedoms we hold dear. On Veterans Day and every day, we honor your service. Thank you.
Learn more about Vince’s role at NOBLE: https://www.noble.com/leadership/vincent-l-griffith
Learn more about Veterans at NOBLE: https://www.noble.com/veterans