L to R: Jim McDonough Owner (US Army Ret), Brandon
Senior Tech, Trainer and Dothan Truck Leader (Veteran Carpet Cleaner ) Garrett
Truck Leader Enterprise ( USMC ), Jordan Carpet and Lawn Technician (Eagle Scout),
Joel Lawn Technician ( Army Infantry ), Michael Lawn Technician ( Ships to Ft
Benning, 5 Nov, Army ), Todd Senior Lawn Tech and Trainer (Navy) & John
Cappadoro Owner (US Army Ret)
Veterans Carpet Cleaning and Lawn Service, LLC, Enterprise,* Alabama
I couldn't think of a better way to recognize Veterans Day than to
feature a group of young warriors who have made the transition from military
life into a successful business. Three years ago in October 2010, two active-duty
army officers took leave, came to Indianapolis and attended Bane-Clene Institute
to investigate the carpet cleaning business.
Six months later, with a combined 42 years of service to their Nation,
Jim McDonough and John Cappadoro purchased their first Bane-Clene system on
their retirement from the Army. The two aviators said their ambitious undertaking
was: "The desire to be small business owners
who could not only be successful but who could take ownership of their future."
Last month as I entered our classroom to address the students, there
were John and Jim in the front row again with two new members of their team.
In just two and a half years they established a good reputation with Angie's
List and built a solid customer base. They're expanding to Dothan, AL., and
brought Brandon Wilder and Garrett Eichorn to school. Their company name reflects
the character of these men. Hiring veterans whenever they can is helping solve
the economic dilemma facing members of our armed forces as the military downsizes.
To Jim and John and all of your people: Good luck and thanks to all of you for
your service. May God bless you and the country you defended so well.
PS: This old Jarhead was touched when Garrett Eichorn, obviously USMC bred,
greeted me with "Semper Fi" and told me Parris Island hasn't changed
much since I was there nearly 69 years ago. I respectfully disagree. I believe
today's warriors are stronger, tougher, better equipped, better trained and
just as dedicated as those who served before them.
* What a great name for a city in which to start a new business!
©Bane-Clene® Corporation 2013 Reprinting or electronically publishing this article is strictly prohibited without permission from Bane-Clene Corp.
I'd like to hear your comments on this article.
Please e-mail me at wfbane@baneclene.com.
