“Veterans Day is a time of gratitude. It’s an opportunity to honor those who came before us, who served with courage and sacrifice, and made it possible for others to follow in their footsteps. It’s a moment to say thank you and to reflect on the true cost of service. Commitment and sacrifice don’t fade with time, and neither should the appreciation we show to those who have worn the uniform.” – Luis Castillo, TriWest Project Manager, Sr., Military and Veteran Services, Southwest
On November 11, we recognize Veterans Day—a day that showcases love for our country and our enduring gratitude for the brave men and women who have sacrificed for our freedom.
At TriWest Healthcare Alliance (TriWest), Veteran employees hold a special place in our hearts. When they separated from active duty, they chose to continue serving their brothers and sisters in a civilian role—proudly caring for the needs of other Veterans, military service members, and their families. By giving back to others, they remain committed to their country and community in impactful ways, leveraging their skills and experiences for a cause they deeply understand.
These Veterans are our guiding lights. They truly reflect the words of Abraham Lincoln, who on July 4, 1863, said: “Honor to the soldier and sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country’s cause. Honor, also, to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field and serves, as he best can, the same cause.”
We spoke with a few TriWest Veteran employees—from whom we can learn so much—about their service and the importance of mission-centered work.
In their own words:
Luis Castillo
TriWest Project Manager, Sr., Military and Veteran Services, Southwest
Military Branch: Army
Role: Property Accounting Technician (Logistician)
Rank: CWO3
Years of Service: 1995-2020
What motivated you to join the military? At 18, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do with my life, and the military quickly stood out as one of the best options available. I didn’t join with the intention of making it a career, but once I was in, I discovered many aspects of Army life that aligned closely with my values. From there, everything fell into place—and the rest is history.
What was the most memorable thing you learned during your service? How quickly trust can form. I found myself having to rely on people I had not known for very long. It taught me the true value of camaraderie and the importance of being someone others could count on just as much in return.
What made you most proud of being in uniform?
During a particularly demanding training event, I saw how operational requirements often overshadowed the personal and developmental needs of the soldiers executing them. That experience shifted my perspective. I became a more intentional observer of people’s roles and contributions, and I made it my mission to help others recognize the value of the individual—not just the outcome. Years later, I saw the impact of that mindset firsthand, and when it was my time to step away I did so with confidence, knowing that strong, resilient leaders would carry the legacy of service forward.
What does Veterans Day mean to you?
Veterans Day is a time of gratitude. It’s an opportunity to honor those who came before us, who served with courage and sacrifice, and made it possible for others to follow in their footsteps. It’s a moment to say thank you and to reflect on the true cost of service. Commitment and sacrifice don’t fade with time, and neither should the appreciation we show to those who have worn the uniform.
What does it mean to be part of a company where your military service is celebrated? I truly appreciate being part of a company that not only acknowledges and celebrates the service of all Veterans but also takes meaningful action to support them. TriWest’s ongoing commitment speaks volumes and makes me proud to be part of a team that lives its values.
Kristine Cothren
TriWest Regional Director, Military and Veteran Services
Military Branch: Air Force
Role: Medical Service Corps Officer
Rank: Lt Col
Years of Service: Active duty from 2009-2023, Air Force Reserves 2023-present
Major Deployments: 380th Expeditionary Medical Group at Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates
What motivated you to join the military? I grew up in a military family, so serving was always something I had considered. After college, I began a career in marketing and really enjoyed it but continued to wonder about a career in the military. After speaking to multiple services, I was commissioned into the Air Force Medical Service Corps where I spent nearly 15 years on active duty and continue to serve today in the Reserves.
What was the most memorable thing you learned during your service?
I learned that I could do hard things! The military pushes you outside your comfort zone (sometimes far outside of it), but with that comes growth. When I joined the military, I had zero health care experience and had never supervised anyone. When I arrived at my first assignment at one of the largest Air Force hospitals at the time, I was introduced to the team of 84 personnel I was supposed to lead! The learning curve was steep, and I was way outside of my comfort zone, but I loved every minute of it and learned so much.
What makes you most proud of being in uniform? Putting on the uniform is a reminder of what this country stands for and the sacrifices those who came before me fought so hard to achieve. I’m proud to have the opportunity to serve my country and do my part to preserve our freedom.
What does Veterans Day mean to you?
To me, Veterans Day means honoring all those who serve and have served and recognizing the sacrifices they make daily.
What does it mean to be part of a company where your military service is celebrated? Being in the military is a sacrifice, not just for the service members, but I would say even more so for our families. I knew when I separated from active duty, I wanted to continue serving Veterans and their families in my civilian role and being part of TriWest allows me to do that. Navigating the health care system is challenging for anyone, but especially for military families as they are continually starting and stopping care with each move. TriWest truly does whatever they can to help ease and guide members through that process. I am grateful to be part of a company that honors our military.
“Working for TriWest, a company that actively supports our nation’s Veterans, carries a profound meaning. It is not just a job; it is a continuation of mission and brotherhood for me. It is not only an honor, but a privilege to continue that mission. Semper Fidelis.” – Phillip Trujillo, TriWest IT Support Manager, Information Services
Phillip Trujillo
TriWest IT Support Manager, Information Services
Military Branch: Marine Corps
Role: 0311 Infantrymen/Marine Raiders
Rank: CplE4
Years of Service: 1991-1995
Major Deployments: Desert Storm and Operation Restore Hope Somalia
What motivated you to join the military? Family legacy and to hold the honor and title of being a U.S. Marine.
What was the most memorable thing you learned during your service? The concept of having a lifelong brotherhood that goes beyond camaraderie. Being a Marine is a deep, unwavering desire to belong to something greater than oneself.
What made you most proud of being in uniform? The shared struggle, sacrifice, unbreakable trust, and the identity and purpose of being a Marine. The unwavering dedication and willingness to protect and give one’s life for the Marine to my left and my right. Being a part of an eternal brotherhood.
What does Veterans Day mean to you? Veterans Day to me is a day of reflection, honoring the fallen brothers and sisters who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and those to have served alongside them. It is a day of mixed emotions of pride, grief, gratitude, and guilt.
What does it mean to be part of a company where your military service is celebrated? Working for TriWest, a company that actively supports our nation’s Veterans, carries a profound meaning. It is not just a job; it is a continuation of mission and brotherhood for me. It is not only an honor, but a privilege to continue that mission. Semper Fidelis.
Joel Dixon
TriWest Vice President, Midwest Operations, Military and Veteran Services
Military Branch: Air Force
Role: Physical Therapist (career field), retired as a Military Treatment Facility Director at Minot Air Force Base
Rank: Col
Years of Service: 1998-2023
Major Deployment: Deployed during Operation Southern Watch to Prince Sulton Air Base, Saudi Arabia
What motivated you to join the military? I grew up as an Air Force BRAT. My father served in the Air Force and retired as a Colonel. Watching my father as I grew up, I knew I wanted to serve in the Air Force by the time I was in high school. I also wanted to be in the medical field because I enjoyed helping others recover from injury. After graduating from physical therapy school, I applied and was accepted to serve as a physical therapist in the Air Force.
What was the most memorable thing you learned during your service? Taking care of each other (peers), and those who I supervised were the key to mission success. Priority is “People First – Mission Always!”
What made you most proud of being in uniform? Knowing I made a difference both locally and globally for the betterment of those in need of health care services. I am thrilled to see those who served under my command succeed and move upwards in their careers, as well as knowing the patients we cared for received the health care services they needed.
What does Veterans Day mean to you? Recognizing those who served and sacrificed before me, appreciating those who I served with, and hopeful for those who will serve after me.
What does it mean to be part of a company where your military service is celebrated?
When I retired from the Air Force, I knew I wanted to continue serving in some form or capacity. As a health care provider, service is in my blood. TriWest was exactly what I was looking for in a post-military career. When I came across the opportunity to work for TriWest, it checked all the boxes I was looking for to continue my service to those who serve. The fact that TriWest focuses on military service just highlights, to me, I made the right choice to work for this company.
TriWest extends a heartfelt thank you to all our nation’s Veterans. Your commitment and sacrifice are an example of strength to us all.