Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) and Centerra held a joint Veterans Day celebration to recognize employees and community members who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
The event, held earlier this year, brought together workers, leadership and veteran representatives to honor the courage, commitment and sacrifice of service members across generations.
Retired U.S. Army Capt. Florent “Flo” Groberg, a Medal of Honor recipient, delivered the keynote address, according to a press release from SRS.
Groberg, who earned degrees from the University of Maryland before serving a distinguished Army career, went on to lead teams at LinkedIn and Boeing. He now serves as head of Microsoft Azure’s Global Government Mission.
“Thank you, SRNS, for the vital work you do,” Groberg said. “While many may not fully grasp the significance of your contributions, your efforts are deeply appreciated. What you do matters immensely, not just for our nation’s security, but for global stability.”
The ceremony opened with a presentation of colors by the Midland Valley High School Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. The program included remarks from organizational leaders and acknowledgments of the veteran community within both companies.
Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Jim Dawkins, SRNS executive vice president and chief operations officer, noted the importance of honoring employees who have worn the nation’s uniform.
“As a veteran, I know firsthand the weight of service and the pride that comes with it,” Dawkins said. “Veterans Day gives us the opportunity to honor all who have stood watch for our country and to recognize the families who stood behind them.”
Centerra-SRS General Manager Mark Bolton highlighted the company’s strong veteran workforce.
“Approximately 50% of our workforce are veterans,” Bolton said. “Their sacrifices and commitment to our freedoms and democracy are an inspiration to all. They are still serving their country by protecting the national security interests at the SRS.”
SRNS reported that nearly 700 employees, about 12% of its workforce, identify as veterans, with veterans making up 21% of the organization’s leadership, according to a press release from SRS.
The company also launched the Disabled Veteran Enhancement Opportunities program in October 2024 to increase employment prospects for disabled veterans. Since its start, nearly 725 applicants have been reviewed through the program.
SRNS also formed a Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. Department of War and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program to help transitioning service members learn about career opportunities at the Savannah River Site.
Several participants have received full-service offers after completing their assignments, according to a press release from SRS.
Dawkins said Veterans Day carries particular meaning for organizations connected to national security.
“It’s a day to honor the courage of those who stepped forward when the nation called,” he said, adding that the mission of the Savannah River Site underscores that connection.
Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, a Fluor and HII partnership, manages and operates the Department of Energy’s Savannah River Site near Aiken.
