Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is a profound occasion for our nation to pause and express our deepest gratitude to all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It’s a day to honor the sacrifices made, the courage shown and the unwavering commitment of these remarkable individuals who have protected our freedoms and upheld our values. At Energy Transfer, this day holds particular significance, as we are proud to have many veterans among our ranks – individuals who transitioned from serving our country in uniform to powering our nation’s energy through their work with us.
Their experiences, leadership skills and dedication are invaluable assets to our company. This Veterans Day, we want to shine a light on just a few of the incredible veterans who contribute to the success of Energy Transfer every single day.
Daryl Bunker, Senior Director, Panama Project, Houston, Texas
Daryl Bunker served in the United States Navy Supply Corps from 1985 to 1997. A significant part of his service included being a “Plank-owner” and a member of the Commissioning Crew for the USS George Washington CVN-73 in 1992. He also served as Supply Officer at Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Milton, Florida.
Daryl Bunker
Jeff Emblen, Program Director, Project Engineering, Houston, Texas
Jeff Emblen began his military career by enlisting in the United States Army as an infantryman, serving from 1990 to 1992. He then attended the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1996. Following his graduation, Jeff served as an Armor Officer from 1996 to 2001. During his service, he was stationed across various posts, including Fort Lewis, Washington; Fort Riley, Kansas; Camp Casey, Republic of South Korea; and Fort Carson, Colorado.
Jeff Emblen (left)
Darrell Ford, I&E Technician, Sour Lake, Texas
Darrell Ford enlisted in the United States Navy in 1975, serving until 1978. He was stationed in Charleston, South Carolina, aboard the USS ORION AS 18. The USS ORION was a submarine tender for the Fast Attack Fleet, SUB RON 4, playing a crucial role in supporting the nation’s submarine operations.
Darrell Ford
Bobby French, Measurement Technician, Dubach, Louisiana
Bobby French enlisted in the Louisiana Army National Guard in 1987, shortly after graduating high school. After basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, he was activated for Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm in 1990 with Company C 527th Engineer Battalion. His service continued with a deployment to Bagram, Afghanistan Air Base in 2003, supporting operational engineering for the base. Beyond overseas deployments, Bobby was instrumental in numerous state activations for tornado cleanups and hurricanes, including the devastating Hurricane Katrina and relief efforts for the BP oil spill. He retired from the Louisiana Army National Guard in 2010 after 23 years as a Senior Enlisted NCO.
Bobby French
John Kennedy, Senior Manager, MHIC Field Ops, Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania
John Kennedy dedicated six years to the United States Navy, serving from September 1982 to February 1988. His journey began with 13 months stationed in Great Lakes, Illinois, followed by service on the USS Valdez in Newport, Rhode Island, until the completion of his active enlistment in June 1987.
John Kennedy
Brian Warthman, Senior Terminal Operator, Dayton, Ohio
Brian Warthman served in the Ohio Army National Guard, with B Troop, 2nd Squadron 107th Cavalry, for 22 years, from 1994 to 2016. His deployments included Kosovo at Camp Bondsteel from 2004-2005, and Iraq at Camp Taji during Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2009-2010. Domestically, Brian’s unit was mobilized to Louisiana for the critical hurricane relief efforts following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Brian Warthman
Energy Transfer is proud to have the veterans of the United States Armed Forces as vital members of the Energy Transfer family, where they continue to serve our country by ensuring the safe and reliable delivery of energy. Thank you for your service, then and now.
