I asked fellow veteran John Long about his company Silver Oak Leaf Inc. The name is a no-brained as he’s a retired Lieutenant Colonel but what he’s up to is pretty interesting although John sums to up nicely, saying he’s “Creating Strategic Teaming Relationships.”
He went on to say, “I launched Silver Oak Leaf Inc six years ago to continue to improve Personal Protective Equipment.”
John’s position is that protection begins at the uniform layer out and includes more than ballistic protection – such as flame resistance, specific developments for extreme cold weather (artic) and extreme hot/humid (jungle). ?
He helps industry transfer innovative textile based products such as lighter weight fabrics to innovative cold weather fibers to power and data e-textiles and working to improve flame resistance and increased durability.
This year he expanded to focus on developing and delivering innovation for hands, feet and face extreme cold weather protection.
Using the experience he gained over the last 30+ years as a US Army officer and industry executive, John helps assist in navigating organizational structures to overcome barriers in funding, testing and trial.
John wrapped up our conversation by relating, “So I was the PEO Soldier guy then after retiring joined Propper Intl as Dir Business Development then to INVISTA and the Cordura brand as Innovation Manager. Then launched my own company Jan 2018. I manufacture uniforms for DLA as well as specific development projects and do strategic planning on a project basis.”
Wanted to say a big “thank you” to Soldier Systems Daily for adding my veteran owned business as a feature. I wanted to add that “change is the only constant in life” (attributed to Heraclitus, Greek philosopher). That’s why I focus on innovation and new product development: because our service men and woman deserve the best, but the goal posts constantly move. There are demonstrated new dynamics of land warfare being played out in eastern Europe. Specifically the role of small offensive drones and the DoD projection that we wont be able to hold to the “golden hour” for medical evac – there is more to do! Thanks again! JD