In celebration of Independence Day, hear from TriWest teammates about their family traditions and what freedom means to them.
As our nation approaches its historic 250th Independence Day, we are reflecting on the values that unite us and the heroes who protect us.
To honor this milestone, we sat down with members of Team TriWest to talk about how they celebrate as families, what freedom means to them, and how their mission here shapes their perspective on American history. These are their stories—the heart and soul of TriWest.
What They Said
Joseph Gardiner-Sanchez,
Training Specialist, U.S. Army Veteran
How do you typically celebrate Independence Day? Are you doing anything extra special this year for the 250th celebration?
I typically celebrate the Fourth of July as a double celebration of my birthday and our nation’s independence, surrounded by my family. I use holidays such as the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and even other holidays to take the time to remember members of our military and their family who did not make it home. I deeply appreciate the sacrifice they made for our nation and the freedom we all enjoy. This year, for America’s historic 250th celebration, I am marking our country’s milestone and also my own milestone birthday. We are focusing heavily on honoring our collective military legacy and toasting to the resilient spirit of the United States.
How does working at TriWest shape or change how you view this holiday?
Working at TriWest deepens my appreciation for the holiday by keeping me connected to the mission of supporting my fellow Veterans every single day. TriWest’s strong military orientation aligns perfectly with my personal values and identity. Serving the Veteran community in my career transforms Independence Day from a simple historical holiday into a living, daily commitment to honor those who protect our liberties.
What does ‘freedom’ mean to you?
To me, freedom means the sacred privilege to live, speak, and choose my own path without fear, a right secured by the sacrifice of Veterans. It represents the unique democratic structure of the United States that allows for individual liberty and self-determination. True freedom is a hard-earned legacy that must be actively protected and never taken for granted by the generations who inherit it.
Is there a specific moment in your life or career where you felt exceptionally grateful for American freedom?
I felt exceptionally grateful for American freedom during my Army deployments, where I witnessed firsthand the severe lack of liberty in other nations. Seeing people live under oppressive regimes and constant restrictions made me deeply appreciate the fundamental rights we enjoy at home. Returning to U.S. soil after those deployments is the exact moment my gratitude for American freedom became permanently etched into my character.
Allison Oloruntobi,
Community Relations and Outreach Manager
How do you typically celebrate Independence Day? Are you doing anything extra special this year for the 250th celebration?
In my family we traditionally celebrate both Juneteenth and the Fourth of July. Both celebrations are usually accompanied with a large family gathering in Texas filled with outdoor activities, games, barbeque, fellowships, and prayers. This year, my husband and I may take a different approach and celebrate with activities and barbeque in Phoenix. The 250th celebration gives us a chance to appreciate the many blessings and opportunities that we have.
How does working at TriWest shape or change how you view this holiday?
As a TriWest employee, my concept of freedom has been broadened through my role in Community Relations. We work with many amazing organizations that serve and support Veterans and military families, and through their stories we recognize the cost of freedom and the sacrifices made which allow for normality and contentment here in the United States.
What does ‘freedom’ mean to you?
Freedom is meaningful to me and my family, because we honor our nation’s system of democracy and the values incorporated within the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Prior to 1776, many of these ideas were unheard of and considered radical in a time of monarchy and oligarchy. As a family, we also honor Juneteenth because equality and personal freedoms were not enforced until 1865 with the abolishment of slavery. Therefore, freedom is something we deeply value and reflect upon.
Is there a specific moment in your life or career where you felt exceptionally grateful for American freedom?
As a young African American woman in the United States, I understand both the cost and the fragility of freedom and the importance of preserving it. I also understand the importance of equality and freedom of opportunity for everyone because these were rights which we did not always have.
Ruth Vetter, Chief
Compliance and Legal Officer, U.S. Army Veteran
How do you typically celebrate Independence Day?
Normally, I spend it with family whether it is home in Virginia or traveling to New England where I grew up. This year, I’ll be in Massachusetts as my brother is having a party. I look forward to seeing family and old friends and having some yummy seafood.
How does working at TriWest shape or change how you view this holiday?
Working at TriWest helps me keep perspective, and every day, I am reminded by the work we do that there are sacrifices associated with our freedom. We’re supporting something much bigger than ourselves, and each of us has a unique role in ensuring our warfighters and their families get the care they deserve.
What does ‘freedom’ mean to you?
My grandparents came to this country during WWI because they lived in a place where they were persecuted because of their faith. I am very grateful for the freedom we have to worship and to live out our dreams. I certainly have been blessed with so many opportunities because of these freedoms.
Is there a specific moment in your life or career where you felt exceptionally grateful for American freedom?
I think it was those Independence Days when I was in the Army and far away from the U.S. Being away often made me appreciate home – and everything that comes with living in our great country – so much more.
Celebrating 250 Years
As Independence Day reminds us of our collective resilience, the above responses highlight the unwavering pride and personal commitment that fuel our daily work. Together, they prove that behind every hero we serve stands an equally dedicated team ensuring the promise of freedom endures for the next generation.
We wish everyone a safe and happy Independence Day as America celebrates 250 years of freedom!