Lt. Col. Marshall Jackson, USA (Ret), is a jack of many trades. His résumé includes being a musician, an infantryman, and now, after recently retiring from the Army after 27 years of service, a full-time small business owner.

Despite having many seemingly different roles throughout the years, he says one thing ties them all together: discipline.

The idea for his small business started when he was deployed and was smoking cigars with a friend.

“We would come off patrol and smoke cigars, trying to wind down and relax,” said Jackson, pictured. “So we would take some plywood that we had lying around and build makeshift humidors inside these ammo cans. About three years ago, we got together and started reminiscing saying, ‘Remember doing that? That was kind of a fun thing. What if we looked into putting a company together?’ And that’s how it got started.”

[MOAA STORE: Buy a MOAA Bull-It Box]

Today, Jackson’s business, Bull-It Box, takes military-grade tactical ammo cans used by the U.S. military, cleans and powder-coats them, laser engraves custom images on the side, and then hand makes the humidor insert. For those who aren’t cigar aficionados, other inserts can be purchased with the boxes, including whiskey glasses, a French press, a gun insert, and more.

Because each box sold has previously been used in military service, they are authentic.

Jackson offers advice for military spouses and transitioning servicemembers looking to become full-time small business owners.

“You’ve got to believe in yourself,” he said. “You’ve got to believe in what you’re doing.” He added that delegating tasks to others when needed, being disciplined, and finding balance while spending time with loved ones are all important parts of working for yourself and that other skills from the military translate well to small business ownership.

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If you’re interested in purchasing a Bull-It Box, they are available from the MOAA Store for an exclusive member discount, over $70 off of the regular price.

“If we can get a good product in the hands of some veterans at a cheaper price, absolutely everybody wins,” Jackson said.

Those wishing to receive their box by Christmas will need to place their order by Dec. 15. A portion of the proceeds from sales of MOAA Bull-It Boxes will be donated to The MOAA Foundation, so while you surprise a loved one this holiday season, you will also be supporting MOAA’s philanthropic efforts.