Our employees are what makes VMS truly valuable. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, we take immense pride in recognizing and celebrating our Veteran employees for their service to our country and their continued contributions to VMS. We are excited to honor Eric Cox in this month’s Veteran Spotlight! 

Eric currently serves as a Facilitator and Instructor at VMS, where he shares his extensive leadership experience and knowledge by facilitating leadership courses. His passion for developing others reflects a career built on service, mentorship, and helping people reach their full potential. 

Eric proudly dedicated 24 years to the United States Air Force, retiring in 2019 at the rank of Senior Master Sergeant (E-8). Coming from a family where every generation has served in some capacity, military service has long been part of his family’s legacy. For Eric, joining the Air Force was an opportunity to explore new experiences, embrace exciting challenges, and discover where the journey might lead.

Throughout his military career, Eric held a variety of specialized and influential roles. His primary career field was Aircrew Flight Equipment, where he supported critical aviation operations. He also served as an Airman Leadership School Instructor, helping develop the next generation of Air Force leaders, and concluded his military career as a Career Advisor, guiding fellow Airmen through important professional decisions. 

Eric’s military experiences extended well beyond the traditional scope of service. From supporting Special Operations to participating in Presidential Support missions, he had opportunities to contribute to some truly remarkable assignments. Among his proudest accomplishments was his time leading within the Physiological Support Squadron, supporting lifesaving operations for the U-2 aviation program. This highly specialized mission remains one of the most meaningful chapters of his military career. 

His exceptional service and dedication earned him numerous military decorations and honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, and Air Force Achievement Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster. His recognitions also include the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Service Stars, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal, and numerous additional unit awards and service decorations. 

Eric’s Air Force career also took him to destinations across the globe. From Afghanistan to Morocco, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, each assignment brought new perspectives, experiences, and opportunities to connect with people from different backgrounds. While Afghanistan stands out as his most memorable location, Eric fondly recalls the many remarkable places he visited throughout his service. 

For Eric, however, the greatest reward was not simply the opportunity to travel or take on unique assignments. It was the incredible diversity of people and experiences that military life introduced him to. The chance to work alongside individuals from different backgrounds, learn from their perspectives, and share in a common mission made his 24 years of service especially meaningful. 

When reflecting on his military journey, Eric shared that he remains particularly proud of the specialized missions he supported: 

“From Special Operations to Presidential Support. But will always be proud of the time I spent leading in the Physiological Support Squadron as lifesaving operations for U2 aviation.” 

His experiences are a powerful reminder of the dedication, teamwork, and responsibility that take place behind the scenes of military operations, often in roles that many people may never see. 

Eric officially retired from the Air Force seven years ago, however his steadfast commitment to leadership and service certainly did not retire with him! Today, he continues to make a difference for his fellow Veterans through his work at VMS, helping VA employees strengthen their leadership skills and develop the confidence and knowledge needed to succeed. His transition from military leader to leadership instructor is a wonderful example of how the lessons learned in uniform continue to inspire and influence others long after military service ends. 

Drawing from his own experiences, Eric offers three valuable pieces of advice for soon-to-be Veterans: 

• Make the most of your opportunities. While still serving, take advantage of the resources available to prepare yourself for the next chapter. 

• Plan ahead and explore your interests. Think about what you want to pursue after military service and begin preparing for that transition early. 

• Build and lean on your network. Figuring out “what we want to be when we grow up” can be challenging at any stage of life! Invest in your relationships, expand your professional connections, and rely on your network to help make the transition smoother. 

Eric’s advice is a wonderful reminder that even after an accomplished military career, there is always room to learn, grow, and discover new opportunities. 

VMS is incredibly proud to have Eric Cox as part of our VMS team. His 24 years of distinguished military service, remarkable leadership accomplishments, and continued dedication to developing others exemplify the values that define our organization. From supporting critical aviation missions to mentoring future leaders, Eric has built a career centered on excellence, service, and making a lasting difference. 

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Eric for his honorable service to our nation, his extraordinary contributions throughout his military career, and the experience and leadership he continues to bring to VMS. We are honored to celebrate his journey and proud to have him as part of the VMS family!