Veterans Day 2025

It’s a moment to reflect on the shared values shaping our nation, and the individuals who carry those values into every corner of civilian life, including at PRA.

We’re proud to recognize Veterans Day as part of our core equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging programming. This year, we’re honoring the moment with Kolina Burton, Experience Designer, Hawaii, and proud U.S. Veteran. Kolina’s 12 years of military service in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard continue to shape how she consistently leads with integrity, collaborates and connects, brings her best, and shows up for others.

A Moment That Changed Everything

Early in her military career, Kolina was struggling. She was far from home and had just lost a family member. When she returned to base, she was placed on what her squadron called the “broken flight,” a group for those temporarily unable to serve or awaiting discharge.

“I started dirtbagging it,” Kolina recalls. “I was checked out.”

Then came the moment. A senior master sergeant called her into his office and asked one simple, piercing question:

“Is this who you really are?”

It was a wake-up call. Kolina had always been a high achiever, from being a 4.0 student to an element leader in basic training, she was someone who led from the front. That conversation stopped her in her tracks and reminded her of who she was and who she wanted to be. It was a pivotal moment:

From that moment on, Kolina recommitted to her path. She trained hard, volunteered, and earned Senior Airman Below the Zone, moving to the next rank six months ahead of schedule. She was also “coined”—discretionary recognition by commanding officers — several times for the leadership and initiative she demonstrated.

Service Before Self

Kolina’s story reflects one of the Air Force's core values: Service Before Self. It’s a mindset she carries into her civilian life and in her role at PRA.

As an Experience Designer, Kolina blends her military precision with her creative side. Her background in security forces, cyber operations, accounting, and her own wedding planning business gives her a unique edge. “I have the best of both worlds as an experience designer,” Kolina explains, “I’m detail-oriented yet creative, so I get to balance my strengths into one role.”

“I see parallels between the military and PRA,” she shares. “We all have roles to play, and we have to collaborate to make the mission successful.”

Building Community and Creating Belonging

One of the hardest parts of transitioning to civilian life, Kolina says, was losing the sense of daily community and shared purpose. “In the military, you’re surrounded by people who have your back. You’re part of something bigger.”

At PRA, she’s found a new kind of community—one built on collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect. She believes companies can support veterans, from creating employee resource groups to partnering with veteran organizations and charities.

“Veterans bring structure, resilience, and a get-it-done mindset. We’re natural leaders. We just need the space to adjust and to be seen.”

Honoring Those Who Serve

For Kolina, Veterans Day is complicated. It brings up memories of loss, moments of pride, and reflections on identity. “I don’t need validation,” she says. “But it is nice and appreciated when your service is acknowledged.”

Kolina is proud of her journey, growth, and the vibrant life she’s built. From a small town in Washington to deployments in Korea, Jordan, and Kuwait, Kolina has experienced the world, met people from every background, and learned what it means to lead with integrity.

Her advice to fellow veterans entering the workforce?

At PRA, we’re proud to stand beside Kolina and all veterans who bring their values, experience, and heart to the work we do. This Veterans Day, we honor your journey—and the impact you make every day.