From Infantry Officer to CEO: Sean Loosen Shares How PDS Optical Empowers Veterans to See Clearly

Discover the mission behind Pride, Dignity, and Service and why your VA disability rating could mean free prescription eyewear.

Introduction

For many veterans, life after service is a collection of appointments, bills, and new professional demands. Often, basic needs like vision care fall to the bottom of the priority list due to the high cost of prescription eyewear.

Sean Loosen, a U.S. Army veteran and West Point graduate, is working to change that narrative. As the leader of PDS Optical, the largest provider of prescription eyeglasses to VA patients, Sean is on a mission to ensure no veteran is left in the dark regarding their eye care benefits.

READ MORE: Congressman McGarvey Highlights Veteran-Owned PDS Optical’s Impact on Louisville’s Economy — Evocati PR

Why Listen

Sean’s appearance on the Drive On Podcast is a must-listen for any veteran who has ever struggled with eye strain or headaches but avoided the optometrist due to budget concerns. Sean shares how PDS Optical delivers more than 1.6 million pairs of glasses annually across 40 states, all while adhering to the core values that define the company: Pride, Dignity, and Service.

"It’s an earned benefit based on the sacrifices our veterans have made for our country," Loosen told Drive On Podcast.

Here are a few key takeaways from the discussion:

  • Your Rating Matters: Many veterans do not realize that having any service-connected disability rating likely qualifies them for free eye care and prescription eyewear through the VA.

  • Speed and Quality: Once in the VA system, the turnaround time for new glasses is remarkably fast, often arriving within a week.

  • Values-Driven Operations: Learn how PDS Optical incorporates military principles into manufacturing and why they prioritize hiring veterans in their Florida and Kentucky labs.

READ MORE: Honoring Veterans: PDS Optical's Support for Lone Eagle Honor Flight — Evocati PR

Key Insights

  • The Power of "PR with a Purpose": At Evocati PR, we believe that authentic messaging and understanding military culture are crucial for connecting veterans with the resources they have earned.

  • Beyond the Product: Sean discusses how PDS Optical gives back to the community through initiatives like the Lone Eagle Honor Flight Sponsorship, supporting veterans from World War II through the Vietnam War.

  • Veteran Leadership: Sean’s transition from an infantry officer in Iraq to a CEO provides a roadmap for success for other veteran entrepreneurs looking to find a new sense of purpose in the civilian sector.

Watch or Listen

Episode: Free VA Eye Care Most Vets Don’t Know About

About the Drive On Podcast

Hosted by Scott DeLuzio, the Drive On Podcast provides a platform for veterans to share their stories of resilience and discover resources that help them navigate the complexities of post-military life. From mental health to professional development, the show offers "boots on the ground" advice for the military community.

At Evocati PR, we are proud to support PDS Optical in its mission to provide high-quality, affordable eyewear to those who served. This appearance is a testament to the power of strategic storytelling and our commitment to elevating the voices of organizations that make a tangible difference in the lives of veterans. If you'd like the same for your organization, contact us today to set up a free discovery call.


 

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Barrett Y. Bogue

Barrett is the President & Founder at Evocati PR. Learn more about him here.

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