Veteran Feature
John Bailey

John Bailey, A Veteran’s Journey of Service (and the Boots That are His Trusted Companions)

For some, military service is a career. For others, it’s in their blood. For this veteran, it was both; a mission of family legacy and personal conviction.

With ten years of active duty split between two branches, this John Bailey’s path is anything but ordinary.  Beginning his journey as a Boatswain Mate in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Laboon (DDG-58), he later transitioned into the Army to serve multiple roles with the storied 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York.  The inspiration to serve wasn’t born out of chance. “Serving my country was always important to me from as far back as I can remember,” shared John Bailey, who was strongly Influenced by the proud military service of his grandfather, aunts, and uncles. “Fulfilling my dream to serve this great country is something I am very proud of.”

The inspiration to serve wasn’t born out of chance. “Serving my country was always important to me from as far back as I can remember,” shared John Bailey, who was strongly Influenced by the proud military service of his grandfather, aunts, and uncles. “Fulfilling my dream to serve this great country is something I am very proud of.”

After being medically retired, his mission didn’t end, but rather, it evolved. Today, he serves in a different capacity: as the Co-Owner and Vice President of Govtools, a company with more than 50 years of experience supporting our nation’s warfighters and first responders. “We remain relentlessly committed to our core mission: offering full-service procurement solutions to both our partner suppliers and their customers.”

The Right Gear Makes All the Difference

Ask any service member, and they’ll tell you - footwear isn’t just gear, it’s survival. “Having the proper footwear should be a priority for any soldier, sailor, airman, or Marine,” John continues. “I sometimes find it easier to remember the times when I didn’t have the right boots, because once your feet have been battered, soaked, or beaten, you never forget it.”

Throughout his career, Rocky Boots became a trusted companion. From military operations to working in Diplomatic Security at the U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan, he’s relied on Rocky’s durability and comfort.