October 15, 2025 – This Warfighter Wednesday, we’re shining the spotlight on Ignite Vice President, Lonnie Dunbar. Before beginning his civilian career, Mr. Dunbar proudly served in the United States Army for 24 years, 2 months, and 2 days, achieving the rank of Sergeant Major. Today, Lonnie continues his service to the Nation by supporting the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Center of Excellence through his work at Ignite.
Lonnie first enlisted as a 25P Microwave Systems Operator and Maintainer—a “commo” Soldier—where he performed as a Radio Repairer, Network Installer, Maintainer, and Satellite Communications Operator. While his decision to join the military began as a way to build a better life for his family, over time, it became much more. He developed a deep sense of purpose and pride in serving something bigger than himself.
Lonnie’s Past Assignments and Years:
- Basic Combat Training (Fort Jackson, South Carolina) – 2000
- Advanced Individual Training (Fort Gordon, Georgia) – 2000-2001
- 121st Signal Battalion, 1st Infantry Division (Kitzingen, Germay) – 2001-2005
- 114th Signal Battalion, 21st Signal Brigade (Fort Detrick, Maryland) – 2005-2007
- White House Communications Agency (Washington, D.C.) – 2007-2013
- G3, 335th Signal Command (Camp Arifjan, Kuwait) – 2013-2014
- White House Communications Agency (Washington, D.C.) – 2014-2017
- 53rd Signal Battalion (Satellite Control), 1st Space Brigade (Fort Buckner, Japan) -2017-2019
- United States Army Sergeant Major Academy (Fort Bliss, Texas) – 2019-2020
- 304th Expeditionary Signal Battalion-Enhanced, 1st Theater Signal Brigade (Camp Humphreys, Korea) – 2020-2022
- Space and Missile Defense Center of Excellence (Redstone Arsenal, Alabama) – 2022-2024
A Lesson in Leadership
Serving in the Army taught Lonnie countless leadership lessons, but one major principle stood out to know
“Know yourself and seek improvement.”
“This principle is loaded with timeless and impactful concepts,” Lonnie says. “It all boils down to striving to get better. Don’t rest on your laurels—everything you’ve done so far got you to this moment, but it will take more to get you where you want to go. And once you reach that goal, set the next one.”
Among his many missions and memories, what stands out most for Lonnie are the people he served alongside. One individual in particular, his platoon sergeant, SFC Aaron Smith, had a lasting impact on his career.
“I was a young Soldier when SFC Smith came to our unit in Germany while I was deployed to Kosovo,” Lonnie recalls. “He placed a lot of responsibility on me and demanded my best. But the key was that he also provided the training and support I needed to succeed. I stumbled along the way, even failed at times, but I became better because of those experiences. I’m grateful he pushed me beyond my comfort zone and perceived limitations.”
SFC Smith taught Lonnie a lesson he carries to this day:
“The people you want on your team are those who want to be challenged and pushed. As leaders, it’s our responsibility to bring out the best in our people. It’s not enough to demand excellence—we must help them actualize it.”
Advice for Those still Serving or Transitioning
When asked what advice he would give to those currently serving or transitioning for their roles in the military, Lonnie shared:
Define what a successful career means for you and your family, do not allow outside influences to define that for you. Seek guidance, counsel, and mentorship, but ultimately, you and your family should determine what success means for your career. This same principle can be applied to your transition out of the military as well. Define what a successful transition means and work diligently to achieve that. And remember, there’s an entire community that wants to see you succeed—use us!”
Continuing the Mission
Being a part of a Warfighter Focused company, like Ignite, means belonging to a team that has a shared set of values and a company that has an honorable calling. I’m proud to once again contribute to the defense of our Nation and be a part of something bigger than myself.
Lonnie’s Favorite Motto:
“No Mission Too Difficult, No Sacrifice Too Great, Duty FIRST!”
Lonnie, it is an honor to have you as a teammate.