In a world where disasters strike without warning, three military veterans are turning crisis response into a meaningful second career. Joe Bennett, Dan Derbes, and Martin Holguin have transitioned from military service to entrepreneurship as franchisees with Lightspeed Restoration, a brand known for rapid disaster recovery and restoration.
One of Bennett’s most memorable calls involved an unlikely rescue: a pet hamster trapped between two floors. Using thermal imaging equipment typically reserved for structural assessments, the team located the animal and successfully retrieved it. While rare, moments like these highlight the compassion and precision the job sometimes requires.
Beyond heartwarming rescues, these franchisees face serious challenges daily. From water and fire damage to mold remediation, they help families during some of the most stressful periods of their lives. “There’s something deeply satisfying about helping people on one of the worst days they’ve had,” says Holguin, who operates the Santee, California, location.
Lightspeed Restoration, a Home Franchise Concepts brand, was recently ranked No. 32 on Entrepreneur’s 2025 Franchise 500 list, earning industry recognition for its strong systems, scalability, and franchisee support. The company also prioritizes veteran ownership and offers a 15% discount on franchise fees to qualified veterans. This initiative helps ease the transition from military service to small business leadership.
The brand’s structured support systems resonate with veteran operators who are trained to thrive in mission-driven, high-pressure environments. Bennett, Derbes, and Holguin cite the franchise’s emphasis on training, community engagement, and national support as critical factors in their success.
“Franchising provides a clear path,” Bennett explains. “You get the framework, the tools, and the backing. But you still have to lead the team and serve the community. That’s what veterans are trained to do.”
Whether it’s a flooded basement or an anxious family pet, these veteran entrepreneurs are proving that leadership, discipline, and compassion translate seamlessly into franchising. Their work is more than a job.
