Tobyhanna Army Depot Celebrates Veteran Employees on National Hire a Veteran Day

National Hire a Veteran Day, observed annually on July 25, encourages employers to recognize the value veterans bring to the workforce and support their successful transition into civilian careers. Established in 2017, the observance highlights the leadership, discipline and commitment veterans contribute to organizations across the country. At Tobyhanna Army Depot, hundreds of veterans representing every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces continue their service as members of Team Tobyhanna.

Among them is Ryan Yazdzik, who served in the U.S. Army from 2015 to 2020, including two deployments to Kuwait focused on air defense. Inspired by his family’s long history of military service, Yazdzik joined Tobyhanna Army Depot four and a half years ago as a material handler.

In his role, Yazdzik supports the depot’s logistics operations by managing shipping, processing and other essential functions that help sustain critical military systems. Having used many of the same systems during his military service, he understands the importance of ensuring warfighters receive reliable equipment.

“A lot of systems we work on I’ve used in deployments and in the field. I know firsthand the importance of these assets to the warfighter.”

Electronics Mechanic Denise Pfister also continues her commitment to serving the nation after four years in the U.S. Navy as an aviation electronics technician. After enlisting in 2001, she maintained S-3B Viking aircraft used to train pilots and recalls the pride of helping return aircraft to service. She was also in boot camp during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, an experience that shaped the beginning of her military career.

After leaving the Navy in 2005, Pfister joined Tobyhanna Army Depot in 2018 after attending one of the depot’s career fairs. Today, she works on Sidewinder missile systems and credits her military experience with instilling the discipline, commitment and mission-focused mindset that continues to guide her work.

Pfister encourages veterans transitioning into civilian careers to remain patient and utilize available resources, including those offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs. She also believes veterans bring valuable qualities to employers.

“Most veterans are detail-oriented. They’ll show up on time or early. They’re dependable, committed and focused on the mission.”

She added that continuing to support the nation’s defense remains a source of pride.

“I love working at Tobyhanna because I know I’m still doing my part to help keep this country free.”

Harry Heck has also dedicated decades to serving the nation. After joining the National Guard in the 1980s, he continued his military career with seven years of active-duty service in the U.S. Air Force, supporting travel and pay operations. The experience provided the foundation for a successful career in financial management while teaching him the discipline and routine that have benefited him throughout his career.

Following positions with Sallie Mae, other financial institutions and a production facility, Heck joined Tobyhanna Army Depot in 2008. Over more than 18 years, he has held several positions within the Resource Management Directorate, including travel accounts technician, lead approving official and his current role as Defense Travel System administrator for the depot.

Reflecting on his career, Heck said he values the opportunity to continue serving those who protect the nation.

“I really enjoy helping people and assisting them as they go out to serve our warfighters. It means a lot.”

As National Hire a Veteran Day recognizes the contributions veterans make to the workforce, Tobyhanna Army Depot continues to demonstrate the value of hiring those who have served. Through the dedication, leadership and expertise of employees like Yazdzik, Pfister and Heck, the depot strengthens its mission while supporting the readiness of the nation’s warfighters.