In honor Veterans Day, BASF ECMS sent us this veteran's story
For Sovatha Sim, joining the Army was a life-changing decision. Growing up in Lynn, Massachusetts, he knew he needed a new path, one that could take him beyond the challenges his hometown presented. In 2005, he enlisted as a 92 Yankee, the Army's Unit Supply Specialist. In this role, Sim managed everything from inventorying and securing weapons to inspecting, loading, and delivering supplies. He was responsible for maintaining all supplies and equipment, ensuring weapons and ammunition were safely secured and mission-ready.
“Without the Army’s discipline, I wouldn’t be who I am today,” he reflected.
Sim’s journey began when his family moved to the U.S. from the Philippines, where he was born in 1984. His parents, who are Cambodian, didn’t know much about the military, but they supported his choice. Deployed three times—once to Iraq and twice to Afghanistan—Sim quickly adjusted to the rigorous demands of military life. Although he expected a year to train, he was deployed within six months, rapidly mastering the logistics needed to support operations.
“I still dream about the military sometimes,” he admitted, adding that he keeps up routines he learned there, like making his bed and staying organized.
Since joining the BASF ECMS Converse site nearly four years ago, Sim has applied his strong work ethic and organizational skills. He operates various machines on the line but especially enjoys working on the Impact Crusher One (IC1), an essential piece of equipment used to decouple the steel shell of a converter and extract the ceramic material. Sim recently transitioned to working first shift, appreciating the balance it brings to his post-military life with a quieter, slower pace. Outside of work, he enjoys visiting family in Florida and spending time fishing.
“I love it here, especially the benefits,” he shared.
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