Senator Anwar Visits Orion Protective Services, Praises Veterans Workforce Program

EAST WINDSOR, CT — State Senator Saud Anwar of Connecticut’s 3rd District visited Orion Protective Services last week to learn more about a new workforce initiative launched by the East Windsor-based, veteran-owned security firm.

Founded in 2010, Orion Protective Services has grown into a respected leader in the regional security field. Its new Boots to Badges program is designed to support active-duty military members and veterans as they transition into civilian careers by reimbursing the costs associated with becoming a licensed professional security guard.

Although the state of Connecticut waives certain requirements for veterans—such as the mandatory 8-hour training course and $100 application fee—several out-of-pocket expenses remain. These include fingerprinting, state and FBI background checks, and passport photos, which can add up to $160. Under the Boots to Badges program, Orion reimburses those charges for eligible veterans who commit to working with the company for at least three months. In Massachusetts, where the licensing process differs, Orion reimburses the $40 fee for the Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check.

“We recognize the immense value that military experience brings to the security field,” said Orion President and CEO Edward Ramsdell. “The discipline, leadership, and commitment veterans offer make them an excellent fit for this work. By reimbursing these costs, we’re helping them move forward without financial strain as they start the next phase of their careers.”

Applicants must be either currently serving as active-duty members or reservists or be a veteran who has received an honorable discharge within the past two years.

After the visit, Senator Anwar shared his thoughts in a public statement, calling it a “powerful meeting” with a veteran-owned organization doing “critical work to support and employ those who’ve served.” He praised the Boots to Badges program for building a bridge between service and opportunity, noting its focus on career readiness and support for transitioning service members. “Grateful for the chance to learn more and explore how we can strengthen this work together,” he said.

Through Boots to Badges, Orion is doing more than offering employment—it’s actively removing barriers that can stand between service members and civilian careers. By directly addressing the costs of professional certification and tailoring support to those who’ve served, Orion sets itself apart as a company that doesn’t just hire veterans - it invests in their long-term success.

About Orion Protective Services, Inc.

Orion Protective Services, Inc. has provided security services for clients throughout New England since 2010. Security is not a one-size-fits-all solution, so Orion does not take an indistinguishable blanket approach. We take the time to ask the important questions so that we can provide a tailored solution that aligns with the client’s goals, agenda, and is a good fit for the firm’s or community’s culture.

Orion’s management and staff have the high level of expertise needed to provide custom security protection for a wide variety of customers, including residential communities, corporate complexes, municipalities, schools, construction sites and retail establishments. Orion has its headquarters in East Windsor, Connecticut, with satellite offices throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts, enabling them to provide immediate, around-the-clock support and arrive at client locations in 30 minutes or less.

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