Nov 11 | News Release
DK and ALON are proud to fuel communities built by everyday heroes — the ones who serve, protect, and strengthen the United States of America from the ground up. This November, as part of our “Veterans Fuel Us” campaign, we’re celebrating local veterans across the communities we serve.
Each week, we’ll feature a veteran nominated by family, friends, and neighbors recognizing their courage, service, and continued dedication to others. As an American-made fuel brand, we know that the freedom to move, travel, and build opportunity is made possible by those who defend it. These stories remind us that behind every tank of gas and every journey, there’s a deeper purpose and a hero who helped make it possible.
Week 1 Spotlight: Master Sergeant Raymon Carrillo Jr., U.S. Air Force – Abilene, TX
Throughout his distinguished career, Raymon served in multiple overseas assignments and unaccompanied tours, including Operation Urgent Fury (1983), Operation Desert Storm (1991), and Operation Southern Watch (1995–1997). Each mission carried its own challenges and sacrifices, including long periods away from his family and the uncertainty of when, or if, he would return home.
His wife, who nominated him for this recognition, shared how those years shaped their family: “He was away from us so much — through Desert Storm and other deployments — and it impacted our family deeply. Not knowing if he was safe, or when he would come home, was hard. But there was never a question that he would re-enlist. He was completely dedicated to his service and to his country.”
Raymon’s commitment didn’t end when his uniform came off. His wife describes him as “there for everyone”— a man who continues to support others, take pride in his country, and embody the spirit of service long after retirement. “He’s a great provider, and he’s always proud to be an American. Even now, any time we go somewhere, he asks if they have a military discount. Not for himself, but because he’s proud of every business that honors veterans. That’s why I appreciate what DK is doing. It’s so nice to know veterans aren’t forgotten.”
From his years of service to his continued love for his community, Master Sgt. Carrillo truly represents what it means to fuel others — in life, family, and country.
Week 2 Spotlight: Technical Sergeant Kenneth Weiher, U.S. Air Force – Midwest City, Oklahoma
Dedication, resilience, and service define Technical Sergeant Kenneth Weiher, a proud U.S. Air Force veteran from Midwest City, Oklahoma. Over the course of 11 years of honorable service, Kenneth completed six overseas deployments and earned multiple commendations, including an Air Force Letter of Accommodation, two Air Force Achievement Medals, and three Army Achievement Medals.
His wife Megan, who nominated him for this recognition, described him as the kind of person who never stopped giving his best, whether at home or abroad. “When he was active duty, he worked harder than anyone in his group. He had multiple deployments — all while we were married with three kids, and most of those deployments were when the kids were little. He rose through the ranks than most because of his work ethic and dedication.”
Kenneth’s commitment to his country shaped not only his career but his character. His wife shared that his time in service taught him accountability, discipline, and a deeper sense of purpose— qualities that continue to guide him in civilian life.
Now a civilian mechanic at Tinker Air Force Base, Kenneth continues to apply that same level of precision and dedication to his work, embodying the same values he learned in uniform. “It’s crazy… he’s always kind of gotten the short end of the stick throughout his career,” his wife said. “So for once, it’s nice to be recognized. It feels special to be picked out of all the veterans. The odds were so slim, and it means a lot.”
Kenneth’s story is one of quiet strength and perseverance — a reminder that true service extends beyond duty. His dedication to family, career, and country reflects the spirit of those who fuel America every day.
Week 3 Spotlight: Staff Sergeant Keith Logan, U.S. Air Force – Kermit, TX
His wife, Ashleigh, who nominated him, shared how much of himself he continues to give: “Keith not only served his country proudly for 11 years but [he] has also played a huge role in his community since leaving the military. He is a great positive role model and makes sure his impact is felt long after his students leave the classroom, field, and court. There is no one more deserving than Keith.”
His niece, Sonya, who also submitted a nomination, described the steady example he sets: “He is very dedicated. Even now that he’s out, he gives back to his country, especially through the youth.”
Both spoke about how profoundly the Air Force shaped Keith’s values, instilling in him a mindset of accountability, purpose, and always giving “110%.” Today, he continues to serve by mentoring students, supporting families, and showing up for the people around him.
When asked what this recognition means, Ashleigh called it a “huge honor” for someone who gives so much without seeking attention. Sonya added that for a man as humble as Keith, “he deserves it.” Keith’s story shows that the influence of veterans doesn’t fade when their military chapter ends. It continues in classrooms, on playing fields, and in the countless lives shaped by leaders like him.
Week 4 Spotlight: First Lieutenant Sierra Ulibarri, Texas Army National Guard – El Paso, Texas
Sierra enlisted in the Texas Army National Guard in October 2007 and became a Commissioned Officer in the Quartermaster Corps in May 2010 through the University of Texas at El Paso Army ROTC program. During her military career, she served as an Executive Officer, led multiple annual trainings as a Company Commander, supported large-scale operations at Fort Polk and Brownwood, and served as Company Commander during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. She received an Honorable Discharge in 2018.
Her uncle, Keith, who nominated her for this recognition, shared how deeply her leadership stood out: “Sierra worked hard as the unit had few lieutenants and conducted field trainings monthly to ensure combat readiness. She led operations during Hurricane Harvey and consistently rose to every challenge placed in front of her.”
Sierra’s commitment to service continued in her civilian life. Since 2012, she has served at the YWCA El Paso del Norte Region, working at the Sara McKnight Transitional Living Center, a shelter supporting women and children who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and homelessness. Over the years, she advanced from Shift Advocate to Youth Advocate, then Family Advocate, ultimately becoming Director of Homeless Programs in 2018, where she led through the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19.
In 2021, Sierra was promoted to Supportive Housing and Workforce Development Administrator, where she now oversees housing programs, workforce education initiatives, senior housing services, and grant compliance across multiple federal and state-supported programs. Sierra’s journey shows how leadership evolves — from military command to community care — and how one person’s compassion can transform the lives of those who need it most.
About the Campaign
The “Veterans Fuel Us” campaign honors the brave men and women who served our nation and continue to make a difference in local communities across the United States. Throughout November, DK and ALON are spotlighting four remarkable veterans, each receiving a $250 fuel card and a feature across our marketing channels.
By celebrating these heroes, we hope to remind everyone that our fuel is more than just American made — it’s American powered. Our products are fueled by hard work, dedication, and the kind of people whose values drive our nation forward. Follow along as we share inspiring stories each week and join us in saying thank you to the veterans who fuel us all.
Learn more and nominate a veteran at https://dkfuel.com/Veterans-Fuel-Us/.