The transition from soldier to civilian is never easy. Life in uniform is filled with purpose, comradery, and excitement. So what happens when your journey of service ends? For some, a new business endeavor has provided purpose and focus post-military service. This year, we have highlighted a few veteran-owned businesses as we launch our NEW Armed Forces Collection. We’ve paired select items, some custom, from their product line with branch specific eyewear representing the branch in which they served. Take a look:
Protekt
Founded by two veterans and one waterman, Protekt is the ultimate destination for natural liquid supplements and highly moisturizing sunscreen. Founders Mark Healey, a professional athlete, and Navy Veterans Tim Duba and Andrew Powch, Protekt has pushed the envelope for what’s possible with natural liquid supplements. Proudly made in the U.S.A., Protekt has a stringent quality control process, including heavy metal testing for lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. They offer Hydration, energy, immunity, and rest supplements.
Eagles and Angels, Inc
Eagles and Angels Limited, Inc. (E&A) was started by retired Army Special Operations combat veteran Tom to honor the stories of US Veterans. A unique company and process, E&A takes old uniforms from veterans and integrates them into hats, notebooks, belt buckles, and more. Uniforms are donated by veterans, and Tom and his team not only create a product but also tell a veteran’s story and make a financial contribution to the charity of their choice. This ‘Cloth of Heroes’ line will give friends, families, and supporters a way to honor the sacrifice of these great warriors while also giving donating soldiers a way to share their stories with an appreciative and caring public.
Savage Tacticians
High-quality, comfort-driven styles for those who live dangerously. That’s essentially the motto of Savage Tacticians. CEO and owner Kevin Ullman served as a marine for 8 years in Camp Lejeune, NC. Once done with his time in the USMC, he pursued a career in private security, during which he established and launched “Vet-Life” – a patriotic/military mindset clothing line – in February of 2015. Vet-life would then become “Savage Tacticians.” Since then, Savage Tacticians have been pushing the envelope for what’s possible regarding design and graphics. Indeed, having a lot of fun along the way.
Mutiny Metals
“All that glitters is not gold.” Army Veteran Kevin Bailey founded Mutiny Metals. Mutiny specializes in handmade silver bullion “coins” inspired by pirates. A former Army Morse Code Interceptor, Bailey founded the company in 2015 while owning a pawn shop. “Silver was boring at the time, with the same thing being produced year after year,” said Bailey. “I knew people wanted to collect silver like they did old coins. So, I started applying all my creative energy inspired by my childhood. When I was six, I thought I was a pirate, burying stuff in my backyard.” Product offerings include hand-poured silver bars, coins, shot, and crystal. These collectibles are not just valuable but distinctly unique and tell a story. All are made and sourced in the US. Mutiny made a unique 2oz silver coin for Oakley Standard Issue.
