A Legacy of Extraordinary Service: Honoring Our Veterans

These individuals spotlighted below continue to inspire through their resilience and dedication, both in uniform and as part of the Saab team. Their stories, immense sacrifices and achievements exemplify Saab’s mission to keep people and society safe.

Earl Plumlee

Earl D. Plumlee, a senior technical training professional for our Land Systems Division, received the nation’s highest military award for valor, the Medal of Honor, “for conspicuous gallantry at the risk of his life and above and beyond the call of duty.”

Master Sergeant Plumlee (U.S. Army Retired) was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions at Forward Operating Base Ghazni in Afghanistan when the complex was attacked. Earl and his team immediately responded, racing toward the attack to defend the base. With his vehicle under enemy fire, Earl shielded his driver while advancing on the enemy without any cover and in complete disregard for his safety with only his pistol.

Despite sustaining injuries during the battle, Earl continued to fight alongside coalition forces, saving the lives of his fellow soldiers, carrying a wounded comrade to safety and administering first aid. In addition to the Medal of Honor, Earl has received the Silver Star, the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart, among others.

Michael Lane

Chief Warrant Officer -2 (USMC Retired) Michael Lane’s service is marked by extraordinary leadership and bravery under fire. During his more than 24 years of service as an Infantryman and Marine Gunner, Michael was awarded two Purple Hearts. While serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, his patrol came under attack, and he sustained gunshot wounds. Despite his injuries, Michael continued directing his team’s counteroffensive, ensuring the safety of his unit.

Later that same month, while serving as part of a Quick Reaction Force, Michael’s patrol was ambushed. His vehicle was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade, leaving Michael injured and unconscious. Once he regained consciousness, even in his injured state, he coordinated with his patrol and returned safely to base.

While serving, Michael relied on several Saab products including camouflage, Carl-Gustaf and the AT4 weapons system. He joined Saab to help with its Marine Corps Tactical Instrumentation System (MCTIS) training program, designed to prepare the next generation of Marines for combat readiness, recognizing that it would “be a game changer for individuals on the battlefield.”

Tony Viggiani

Chief Warrant Officer -4 Tony Viggiani (USMC Retired), a field service technical deputy at Saab, served over 24 years as a Marine Gunner in the United States Marine Corps, an elite role focused on tactical weapons expertise.

During his time in the USMC, Tony received multiple awards for his bravery. He was awarded the Navy Cross, the nation’s second-highest valor award, for his actions under enemy fire in Afghanistan as a squad leader with Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 6th Marines, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Tony received a Purple Heart after a firefight where he was wounded in the leg by enemy rifle fire, and received the Gunner Henry Lewis Hulbert Trophy for Outstanding Leadership.

Through his work with Saab, Tony continues to serve Marines as part of the MCTIS training program team. His dedication to training future infantrymen and sharing his extensive combat knowledge exemplifies his passion for protecting others and upholding the values that define his military career and his current role at Saab.

JC Knight

Chief Warrant Officer -2 (USMC Retired) JC Knight spent over 22 years in the United States and culminated his career as an Infantryman as a Marine Corps as a Gunner, where he made it his mission to improve close combat systems for his fellow Marines after experiencing the limitations of their shoulder-fired munitions during combat. He was awarded a Purple Heart for his efforts in an incursion in Iraq, during which he received a gunshot wound to his hand while alerting fellow troops of incoming enemy fire.

At Saab, JC uses his extensive combat experience to ensure Marines get the products and services they need.  In 2017, he introduced the USMC to Saab’s Carl-Gustaf® system, and today, it remains a trusted weapon for close combat troops. “I work at Saab, but I work for the gunfighter. It’s all about taking care of people. It’s about bringing our guys home,” said JC.

From all of Saab’s team, thank you to all the U.S. armed forces veterans who have served and sacrificed to keep our country safe. 

Saab’s team is honored to work alongside these exceptional veterans whose service and sacrifices reflect the highest traditions of military excellence. Their experiences, leadership, and dedication to protecting others inspire us as we work together to safeguard our armed forces and our nation.