Christopher Lott: A Veteran’s Journey to Building Danger Close Apparel
A Veteran’s Journey to Building Danger Close Apparel
Growing up on a farm in Louisiana, Christopher Lott’s life was rooted in the enduring values of hard work and a deep-seated tradition of military service. His grandfather, a B-52 pilot, stood as a towering figure in his life, that sparked Chris’s own aspirations. The legacy of service in his family stretches back to the Revolutionary War, underscoring his family’s unwavering dedication to this nation.
The tragic events of 9/11 marked a pivotal moment for Chris. Witnessing the profound impact on the country, he felt an urgent call to defend the freedoms that had been so violently challenged. This drive propelled him to join the military, not merely as a career choice but as a profound calling in the military; Chris discovered a path that not only honored his family’s storied past but also gave him a profound sense of purpose and belonging.
From Farm to Flight: A Commissioned Officer’s Journey
Chris was commissioned through the ROTC program at Louisiana Tech University as a Combat Systems Officer (CSO). His training began at Randolph AFB, where he was among the first CSOs selected for the U-28 program. After completing his training with the 19th Special Operations Squadron, he quickly deployed to the Philippines, followed by assignments in Djibouti and Bagram. Throughout five U-28 deployments, he supported numerous elite ground force units.
During Chris’s last U-28 deployment, he received a call offering him a position with the gunships. I enthusiastically accepted, which led to five more deployments with the AC-130U. On his final AC-130U deployment, Chris transitioned to a staff role as a Joint Special Operations Air Component (JSOAC) Fires Officer. During this deployment, I began reflecting on how I had been home for less than half of my six-year-old daughter’s life, and I started considering a shift to the Guard or Reserves.
He learned about the mission of the MC-12 in Oklahoma City, a role that felt familiar given his experience with the U-28. Since then, he has completed four MC-12 deployments, serving as the commander for two of those rotations. He serves as the Wing Inspector General, eagerly awaiting a command opportunity. My passion lies in taking care of people, and I believe that serving as a Squadron commander will be the best way to continue this commitment in the future.
From Combat to Commerce: The Birth of an Apparel Company
Transitioning from active-duty military service to civilian life was a profound shift. Yet Chris’s passion for the military and the bonds forged in service didn’t wane. I envisioned a way to merge my love for military aviation with the desire to connect veterans and service members. This vision gave rise to the apparel company Danger Close Apparel, dedicated to capturing the essence of military life through our designs.
“Wear YOUR Story!” is more than just a slogan for Danger Close Apparel; it’s a mission. Every piece of clothing created tells a story, your story. As veterans, we all have unique experiences, and our apparel serves as a canvas for those narratives. There’s an unparalleled joy in meeting someone new, spotting a familiar insignia or design, and realizing you shared the same deployment, perhaps even crossing paths unknowingly.
Our company thrives on the strength of our veteran community. Danger Close Apparel collaborates with businesses from Oklahoma, Florida, and North Carolina to bring you the gear. Every product offered is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of veteran-owned businesses.
Connecting Through Stories and Partnerships
Chris’s mission extends beyond selling apparel. We aim to weave a network of veterans and service members, connecting through shared stories and collaborative business efforts. Each partnership, each design, and each story strengthens our community, creating a tapestry of resilience and brotherhood.
A memorable moment was reconnecting with two members of a ground force team from a mission years after a deployment. Meeting at Helen Back in the Florida Panhandle, we reminisced, laughed, and shared stories late into the night. It’s these moments, these connections that our apparel seeks to celebrate and immortalize.
Resilience and Truth: Anchors in the Storm
In the journey of life and business, resilience is key. Knowing your limits and standing firm in your truth are paramount. For me, faith and family are my anchors. They are the reasons I strive, endure, and succeed.
In the face of unprecedented challenges, Chris’s resilience was profoundly tested by his stance on the COVID-19 vaccine mandate within the military. Amid a time of heightened uncertainty and debate, Chris refused the vaccine, questioning the mandate’s legitimacy due to the absence of an FDA-approved option at that time. This decision was not made lightly, and it came with significant personal and professional risks. Yet, for Chris, it was a matter of principle—a stand for truth and adherence to legal standards, even if it meant going against the chain of command. His unwavering commitment to uphold his beliefs underscores the essential role of integrity and conviction in leadership. He asserts, It’s crucial for leaders to defend the truth and act in accordance with their principles, regardless of the personal cost.
Looking Forward
Reflecting on his journey from a farm in Louisiana to serving his country and now to business ownership, Chris is filled with gratitude and purpose.
Married with four children, two of whom are adopted, Chris has balanced the demands of a military career and family life. Over his 16 years of service, he has completed 14 deployments and logged over 3000 hours in three different AFSOC aircraft.
The apparel company is more than just a business; it’s a bridge between past and present, a celebration of stories, and a testament to the enduring spirit of veterans. Each piece created is a tribute to those who serve and a reminder of the bonds that tie the community together. So, wear your story with pride, and let’s continue to connect, inspire, and build a legacy that honors the past and shapes the future.
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