We recently connected with Luis Prieto and have shared our conversation below.

Luis, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

At Cavalry Junk Removal, we proundly stand as a veteran powered junk removal and demolition company, dedicated to serving with the same disicipline, integrity, and commitment that defined our military service. Our mission is to deliver top-notch removal and demolition services, honoring the values of duty, respect, and excellence while contributing to the growth and well-being of the communities we serve.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Where were you on September 11th, 2001? I was a junior at Dalton High School, sitting in my classroom when the teacher switched on the TV to watch the news. The horrifying images of the first and second planes crashing into the Twin Towers left us all in disbelief. It was in that moment that I made a life-altering decision: I was determined to serve in the military in one way or another. After graduating from Georgia Southern University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, I commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and served for seven years. During my military service, I initially served as a Cavalry Officer for my first three years and later transitioned to an Air Defense Artillery Officer for the following four years.

The name of my company, “Cavalry Junk Removal,” draws inspiration from my military occupation specialty, 19C (Cavalry Officer). A Cavalry Scout is renowned as the most versatile soldier on the battlefield, consistently at the forefront. We’ve channeled these traits into our business. While our primary focus is on junk removal and demolition, we also possess the capabilities for pressure washing, painting, building maintenance, construction, and more. Our logo showcases a Cavalry Scout on horseback, brandishing a saber, poised for action. In our business, it symbolizes our readiness to tackle any task and resolve any problem our customers present. The golden color of our logo signifies our commitment to turning everything we touch into success. We add value by helping customers reclaim their space, expedite remodeling projects through efficient demolition, and contribute to the beauty of our communities. The black and gold colors represent the US Army Cavalry Stetson.

I’m immensely grateful that Cavalry Junk Removal has played a role in expediting housing projects in our area, increasing the availability of homes. Additionally, we’ve been able to reinvest in the community by supporting youth team sports and providing donations of furniture, clothing, and books to families in need. I’m also thankful for the support and contributions of my fellow veterans throughout this journey.

“This article is a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable comrades-in-arms who have played an integral role in nurturing the growth of the Cavalry Brand. Carlos Bojorquez, Charles Campbell, Chase Cady, Juan Prieto, Josh Killian, and Orlin Plaza, your unwavering commitment and tireless efforts have been both noticed and deeply appreciated. Your contributions have been instrumental in our journey, and we salute your exceptional dedication.”

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

The most profound lesson I’ve embarked upon unlearning is transitioning from the mindset of an employee to that of a business owner. In the cocoon of employment, you grow accustomed to the reassuring security of a predictable paycheck. It’s an odd contrast – feeling more at ease in a Taliban-infested Charck district in Afghanistan, knowing that my bimonthly paycheck would arrive like clockwork and that my family’s welfare was secured, should something untoward happen. But when it comes to running a startup, such luxuries vanish into thin air. All you have is faith, a relentless drive to persevere, and an unwavering commitment to progress.

This shift in mindset has, without a doubt, tested my mental fortitude, sometimes summoning forth stress and anxiety. But these challenges are merely the crucible in which I continually forge my determination. I’ve internalized a resolute belief that failure is never an option. The only route to defeat is surrender, a path I’ve categorically chosen to reject. My unwavering dedication and enduring spirit ensure my journey’s destination will be nothing less than resounding success.

How’d you meet your business partner?

My business partner, Jose Sarmiento, is not just a partner but a trusted friend with deep-rooted ties to our family spanning over two decades. Prior to our foray into the world of junk removal, my days were consumed by the meticulous task of eradicating mosquitoes from homes and offering our delectable ceviche creations from the confines of our own kitchen. Interestingly, it was Jose who emerged as the most fervent aficionado of our ceviche, becoming a regular customer, while also entrusting us with a monthly mosquito-spraying service.

As our paths crossed and conversations unfolded, the seed of a compelling idea took root – the revival of our junk removal business. It was during these discussions that Jose, with his insights and experiences garnered from his role at Charles Campbell Construction, recognized an unmet need within the market. And so, in the heat of the summer of 2021, Cavalry Junk Removal was born, a testament to the power of collaboration and seizing opportunities to transform dreams into reality.”

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cavalryjr.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CptLous
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lprieto06/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/cavalry-junk-removal-dalton
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@luisprieto4242