2027 Event Attendees
The Veterans and Service members below were notified on Veterans Day of their selection to attend the upcoming Andy Quattlebaum Warrior Hunt and will travel from as far West as Arkansas and North as Pennsylvania. The selected participants were chosen based on their service, volunteering in the community, and love of the outdoors: qualities that The Andy Quattlebaum and Blackwell Family Foundation promote in honoring Andy and what was important to him. Below is some information on each of the participants. They will all start at Camp Woodie where Veterans will enjoy an evening of camaraderie, a presentation of Quilts of Valor from the Myrtle Beach Shorebirds, and a wild game dinner the first evening. The next day they will participate in a sporting clay event, a pheasant tower event, and then the benefit dinner and auction at Whitehouse Farms. On the final day, participants will participate in duck hunting on one of 10 historic plantations in Georgetown, SC, followed by a luncheon to share their experience with other participants.
Keith Adams
Keith is a retired Master Sergeant of the United States Army. His first assignment was as a Military Policemen, then he volunteered and finished his career as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Soldier and Leader. During his 23 years, Keith deployed to Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and South America. He volunteered to serve in Iraq during the initial phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom where he was involved in the collection of information that lead to theater wide procedures to protect service members. Keith transitioned to civilian life to the Military Management Trainee program with Smurfit-Westrock. He has been progressively promoted and now is the General Manager for the Bradenton facility. Keith is the proud parent of two kids that constantly keep him on his toes.
Isa Brasi
Originally from Tampa, FL, Isa grew up in a military family, with both of her parents serving in the armed forces. Their service gave her the opportunity to live overseas and experience different cultures while growing up. With parents and grandparents who served, she was drawn to the opportunity to serve others and carry that family tradition forward. Her faith remains central to her life, shaping both her personal values and her approach to helping others.
After graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in Health Education—Go Gators!—Isa commissioned as a Logistics Officer in the United States Army. During her four years of service, she served in the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas. Her experiences gave her opportunities to lead Soldiers, work through challenges, and develop an appreciation for the people who make a team successful.
Following her time in uniform, Isa joined Cameron-Brooks as a Recruiting Associate, where she now helps fellow military officers explore opportunities in the business world. Having navigated her own transition from the Army, she understands the uncertainty that can come with stepping into a new career. She enjoys connecting with officers, learning about their goals, and helping them prepare for what comes next.
Isa currently lives in Phenix City, Alabama, with her family. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, trying new recipes, traveling, and spending time with her family and dogs. A Florida girl at heart, she’s always happy to find her way back to the beach.
Tom Brinegar
Tom was born in Cherry Point, North Carolina and raised inside a Marine Corps family. Tom served in the Army and the Marine Corps for 20 years, retiring as a Major in 2009. During his Active-Duty career, he completed overseas assignments in Germany, Eastern Africa, Panama, Kuwait, Iraq, Japan, and Mongolia. He completed his MBA with the University of Phoenix. Tom then worked several years as a defense contractor supporting the Marine Corps mission in the Middle East and then into private sector in operations and project manager positions. In the veteran nonprofit space, Tom has been the Program Lead with Project Healing Waters Fly-Fishing in Tampa, Florida; the Executive Director with Service Dogs for Veterans in Greenville, South Carolina; and is a mentor with Hire Heroes USA. Tom is currently the Operations Coordinator with the veteran non-profit organization, Veteran’s Last Patrol, with a mission of befriending, honoring and supporting veterans in end-of-life care. Tom hunts upland game birds behind a 6-year-old Labrador Retriever. Tom has been married to his wife, Cathy, for 32 years and together they have two daughters, a son and a granddaughter on the way.
Pete Brookes
Dr. Peter Brookes is an award-winning outdoor and travel writer and field photographer, located in the Washington, DC area. Over the last seven years, he’s won 18 Excellence-in-Craft awards for his outdoor writings and photography. Brookes is a member of the Outdoor Writers Association of America and the Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers.
Prior to embarking on a second career in outdoor writing, Brookes worked in foreign policy and national security, serving as a naval intelligence officer; State Department officer; CIA operations officer; professional staff member on Capitol Hill; Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense; Washington, DC public policy institute research scholar; and member of the congressional US-China Economic and Security Commission, appointed by two Speakers of the House of Representatives.
He retired from the Naval Reserves with the rank of Commander.
He received his education at the U.S. Naval Academy (BS), Defense Language Institute (Russian), Naval War College, Johns Hopkins University (MA), and Georgetown University (Doctorate). Brookes has taught at the National Defense University and the (now) National Intelligence University. He's married and the father of three, including an Army LCOL.
Nathan Browning
Nathan Browning was raised in Raleigh, North Carolina. Upon graduation from high school in 2015, he enlisted in the United States Navy as an Aviation Electronics Technician. Upon completion of boot camp and Navy A-School, he would serve in the Navy's first F-35C Lightning II squadron, VFA-101 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. In 2018 Nathan was sent to VFA-213, where he would become a fully qualified technician on the F/A-18F Super Hornet and make the rank of Second Class Petty Officer. He would go on to deploy with VFA-87 in 2020-2021 aboard the USS Theodore Roosvelt. After receiving an honorable discharge from the Navy in 2022, Nathan deployed to McMurdo Station, Antarctica in August of 2023 in support of the National Science Foundation fuels operations. Nathan is currently a Junior at North Carolina State University, studying Business Administration with plans to graduate in 2027.
Chris Burnett
Chris Burnett is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel who served more than 22 years, including five deployments to Iraq and the Middle East. As a Judge Advocate specializing in international and operational law, he led Marines, advised senior commanders on complex legal and national security issues, and shaped policy at the Pentagon, U.S. Southern Command (as Chief of Operational Law), and Marine Forces Cyberspace Command (as Staff Judge Advocate).
A devoted husband to his wife Kadiatou and proud father of four, Chris and his family make their home in Gaithersburg, Maryland, where they have raised their children in the local public schools. His commitment to service extends beyond the uniform to veterans and their families. He has championed practical ways to help veterans transition successfully, including plans for a nonprofit indoor commercial vertical farm (rooted in hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic systems) in the Hagerstown area. The concept aims to train veterans and military families in controlled-environment agriculture while creating meaningful work, purpose, and community.
Chris’s 2026 campaign for Congress in Maryland’s 6th District was a direct extension of that lifelong service. He advanced a bold Western Maryland Innovation Corridor vision—a no-new-taxes public-private partnership to rebuild critical infrastructure (American Legion Bridge, I-270, I-70, and I-68), co-locate advanced data centers with small modular reactors for clean, reliable power, and attract high-wage jobs in AI, quantum computing, advanced manufacturing, and biotech. The plan prioritizes national security priorities, protects farmland and local communities, and creates opportunity for veterans, working families, and the next generation—continuing his focus on setting conditions for others to succeed.
Cristobal Cartegena
I was born in Los Angeles, California, and raised in Durham, North Carolina, where I graduated high school at 18. Facing fatherhood shortly after graduation, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps—a decision that profoundly shaped my professional and personal path. During my military service, I served as a Field Artillery Cannoneer, Marksmanship Instructor, and Instructor for the Cannon Crew Chief Course. Teaching came naturally to me. I trained numerous classes on the safe and tactical operation of the M777A2 Howitzer, emphasizing crew safety and leadership responsibility. In teaching others, I continually deepened my own technical mastery and instructional skills. While completing two Unit Deployment Programs to Japan, I discovered a deep passion for culinary arts. I saw firsthand how sharing a meal can bridge cultures, bringing strangers together to connect over shared experiences and celebrate cultural differences. Building on this dedication to cross-cultural connection, I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in French studies. I am fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French, and I aim to leverage my linguistic and instructional background to help non-native speakers navigate language barriers and connect with their communities.
Victor Castilho
Victor Castilho was born in São Paulo, Brazil, and moved to North Carolina at the age of 15. After finishing high school, he spent several years working multiple jobs to help support his family. Grateful for the opportunities he had been given after immigrating to the United States, Victor enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2015 with a desire to serve the country that had become his home. Upon enlisting, he was assigned to 1st Battalion, 12th Marines in Hawaii as a supply clerk. He served in supply and logistics, eventually earning the rank of Sergeant. During that time, he deployed to the Philippines under Operation Enduring Freedom-Philippines with the Marine security element detached from 12th Marine Regiment from 2016 to 2017 supporting the Western Mindanao Command. There, he supported Special Operations Forces, counterintelligence agencies, and local partner forces while serving as a security sentry.
Hawaii also became a place Victor genuinely loved. When he was not working, he was often surfing, hiking, or finding a new trail or stretch of coastline to explore. That connection to the outdoors became an important balance to the pace and demands of military life, and it is something he has carried with him ever since.
After leaving the Marine Corps in 2019, Victor returned to North Carolina and joined Mid Atlantic Crane, where he built a career in service operations within the aftermarket team. What started as a civilian job quickly became another form of service. Working in the service department of a crane company meant supporting the businesses that depended on that equipment every day. During the COVID pandemic, that responsibility became especially real. Keeping a customer’s crane maintained and running could mean keeping a production line moving, keeping a facility open, and helping people stay employed. That perspective changed the way Victor viewed his work. He was not simply scheduling technicians or sourcing parts. He was helping support companies that were themselves supporting families and communities. Being part of that chain of responsibility gave him a strong sense of purpose and reinforced how much it meant to be dependable when others were counting on him.
That experience also sparked his interest in data and analytics. While working full-time, Victor returned to school and began seeing how operational experience and data could work together to improve decisions. He earned an associate degree from Wake Technical Community College, then transferred to NC State University and graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Business Administration and a concentration in Operations and Supply Chain Management. He is now a first-year graduate student at NC State pursuing a dual degree with an MBA and a Master of Management in Risk and Analytics.
Victor remains deeply connected to the veteran community and continues to value mentorship, service, and shared experience. He enjoys traveling, meeting new people, surfing, hiking, and spending time outdoors.
Jesse Crumby
MAJ Jesse Crumby is a lifelong Arkansan who has served in the National Guard since1998, beginning his military career as a combat medic while still in high school. In 2004,he deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, as the lead medic for Charlie Company, 1st Battalion,153rd Infantry Regiment, where his service earned him the Combat Medical Badge.After advancing through the enlisted ranks to Sergeant First Class, Jesse completed aBachelor of Science in Biology and was directly commissioned in 2014 as a NuclearMedical Science Officer with the 61st Civil Support Team. He later served as the unit’sOperations Officer and earned a Master’s Degree in Occupational Safety and Healthwith a concentration in Environmental Health. In 2025, he was selected to serve as theS-3 Operations Officer for the 871st Battalion. His military decorations include twoMeritorious Service Medals, five Army Commendation Medals, six Army AchievementMedals, and numerous additional federal and state awards. An avid outdoorsman,Jesse enjoys hunting deer, ducks, and turkeys and particularly values the camaraderieand fellowship the outdoors provides among veterans. He enjoys introducing others toduck hunting and passing along safe, responsible hunting practices. Jesse lives inMalvern, Arkansas, with his wife, Amber, and their children, Kayleigh and Kent. He isactive in his church and community, serving as a Deacon and Worship Leader at OakGrove Missionary Baptist Church. He also mentors young people through the church’syouth group, continuing a commitment to leadership and service that extends wellbeyond his military career.
Rob Dennis
Robert Dennis served 18 years in the United States Marine Corps, including deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard the USS Tripoli. Recognized for his leadership and professional excellence, he was selected for Inspector-Instructor duty and the Commanding General’s Inspection Team, evaluating military readiness at various commands across the country.
His commitment to service extended into the community, where he led the Toys for Tots program near Rock Island Arsenal, more than doubling donations and the number of children served while strengthening community partnerships and relationships.
Following his military service, Robert earned his bachelor's degree in history & secondary education from St. Ambrose University and his master's degree in educational leadership from the University of Iowa, consistently graduating with honors. As President of the Student Veterans Association at St. Ambrose University, he helped establish a joint Iowa-Illinois Veterans Conference to raise awareness of issues affecting Veterans.
Robert continued his volunteer leadership as a Team Red, White & Blue community coordinator and was instrumental in the planning and creation of SEAL Family Legacy, a nonprofit supporting Gold Star families. He is also a member and volunteers with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, supporting Veterans, military families, and community initiatives.
His dedication to developing young people extends beyond the classroom through coaching cross country, track and field, and mentoring student-athletes. Through athletics, he emphasizes teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and leadership, helping students develop skills that extend well beyond competition.
Today, Robert teaches AP Psychology and Criminology at Broken Arrow High School in Oklahoma. Through military service, education, coaching, nonprofit leadership, and volunteerism, he continues to make a lasting impact on Veterans, students, military families, and the communities he serves.
Joe Fancher
Joseph L. Fancher, raised on a farm in upstate New York, is a distinguished leader and entrepreneur. He served in the U.S. Army for over 32 years, with a notable career in Special Forces that included numerous roles and global deployments. Fancher's military service culminated in his position as Command Sergeant Major at the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School. His awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Special Forces Tab, Ranger Tab, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. Beyond his military service, Fancher is a Director for Oak Grove Technologies, the Owner of Southern Style Farms in North Carolina, the Founder and CEO of Oak Ridge Charity and Outdoor Adventures, and a Board Member of the Green Beret Foundation. He also serves as a Special Advisor to the Cornell University Innovation Hub. Fancher holds a Master's in Business Management and Leadership. His commitment to leadership, education, conservation, and community service is reflected in his diverse roles and dedication to excellence. He is married to Nayda Fancher, and they have two children.
Bobby Farmer
Bobby Farmer graduated from Marmaduke High School in 1999 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Finance with an emphasis in Corporate Finance from Arkansas State University in 2003. Dedicated to continuous growth, he furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership from Liberty University in 2022. In 2024, he achieved a pinnacle military educational milestone by completing the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy, and he was officially promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major in December 2024. He is married to Amber, and they are the proud parents of two sons, Camden and Benton.
Deeply rooted in his local area, Bobby is a leader in the community and has been involved in Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, Leadership Paragould, and has dedicated his time to mentoring and coaching a local youth travel baseball team. He has also served in various ministry and leadership teams at Central Baptist Church.
Bobby enlisted in the Arkansas Army National Guard in June 1998 and has held various critical leadership positions throughout his distinguished career. He began as a Combat Engineer Team Member at B Company, 875th Engineer Battalion in Rector, Arkansas, and steadily rose through the ranks, serving as Team Leader, Squad Leader, and later as the Readiness NCO for the 1037th Engineer Company (MAC) in Paragould, Arkansas. He has also served in key battalion-level roles, including Assistant Operations NCO and Senior Operations NCO for the 875th Engineer Battalion in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Most recently, he served as the State Quota Source Manager for the Deputy Chief of Staff Operations at Camp Joseph T. Robinson, and he currently serves as the Brigade Operations Sergeant Major for the 87th Troop Command.
His combat deployments include a tour in Baghdad, Iraq, from July 2006 to September 2007, serving as a Squad Leader for 3rd Platoon, 131 EN Company, 875th EN BN, where he conducted high-risk route clearance operations. He also deployed to FOB Wilson, Afghanistan, from November 2009 to November 2010, serving as the Operations NCO for the 1037th Route Clearance Company.
Bobby’s exceptional service has been recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal, four Meritorious Service Medals, seven Army Commendation Medals, and three Army Achievement Medals. He has also been awarded the Combat Action Badge, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, and multiple state-level service ribbons. His units have been recognized with two Meritorious Unit Citations for their exemplary service in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Nikita Fenko
I served in the U.S. Army from 2008 to 2023. I started as an airborne infantryman and later became a Special Forces Communications Sergeant. During the later part of my career, I transitioned into cyber operations, which is the field I continued working in after retiring from the Army. I currently work in cybersecurity and vulnerability research.
I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors and camping, but I’m still fairly new to hunting. My first turkey hunt is what really got me interested in it. I enjoyed being out in the woods, learning something new, and getting away from everything for a while. Being outdoors is one of the best ways for me to clear my head and reset. I also enjoy hiking and want to spend more time hunting and eventually get into fishing.
Ben Flack
Ben was born and raised in Georgetown, South Carolina. In 2010, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a diesel mechanic. Upon arriving at Fort Campbell, he was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, where he volunteered to serve as a Black Hawk door gunner during a combat deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF XII–XIII).
After returning from Afghanistan, Ben was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 70th Armor Regiment at Fort Riley, Kansas. From 2015 to 2016, he deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
During the latter part of his military career, Ben served as a squad leader and section sergeant, overseeing field and sustainment maintenance on tracked and wheeled vehicles, construction equipment, small arms, and communications equipment. After receiving an honorable discharge in 2016, he returned home to Georgetown and began the transition back to civilian life.
Since 2017, Ben has worked for Dominion Energy, where he has served in numerous roles and continued to build upon the leadership, technical skills, and experience he gained during his military service.
Throughout it all, Ben has been supported by his wife, Marybeth, to whom he has been married for 12 years. Together, they have three children: Brantley, Braelyn, and Maverick. These days, Ben spends much of his time outdoors with his family, supporting local community events, and traveling.
Derik Fleming
Senior Master Sergeant Derik Fleming retired from the United States Air Force on August 1, 2026, following more than 21 years of honorable service. He began his military career on February 15, 2005. In 2008, he deployed to Sather Air Base, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Following his deployment, he transitioned into Air Force Recruiting Service in May 2009, where he spent the remainder of his military career serving in progressively responsible operational and leadership positions. Throughout his career, Derik served as an Enlisted Accessions Recruiter, Standardization and Training Noncommissioned Officer, Operations Noncommissioned Officer, Enlisted Accessions Flight Chief, Operations Flight Chief, and finished his career as Production Superintendent of the 345th Recruiting Squadron at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. In his final assignment, Fleming provided senior-level leadership and strategic oversight of 147 military and civilian personnel, directing recruiting operations spanning eight states, nine recruiting flights, and six Military Entrance Processing Stations. He was responsible for driving operational performance, developing leaders, and ensuring mission success across a geographically dispersed organization. One of his most notable accomplishments upon assuming the role as Production Superintendent was leading an organizational turnaround, taking a squadron that had ranked near the lowest in command in and transformed it into the top performing organization out of 24 squadrons for recruiting production. The transformation earned the organization the Commands highest award for exceptional progress and performance. Among his other career accomplishments, Derik was recognized twice as Top Recruiter of the Year and received numerous awards recognizing his leadership contributions to the Air Force Recruiting mission. Throughout his 21-year military career, he remained committed to developing people, building high-performing teams, and leaving organizations stronger than he found them. Following his retirement, he joined Smurfit Westrock as Human Resources Business Partner at its Richmond, Virginia facility.
John Gallina
John Gallina was born, raised, and still resides in Statesville, North Carolina. He began his career by joining the National Guard and was deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II, where he was wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart.
After returning home, John went back to the construction industry as a licensed General Contractor, and in 2008 he co-founded Purple Heart Homes, a national 501(c)(3) public charity that builds, modifies, and gifts homes to service-connected disabled veterans. August 2011, John was featured on the cover of TIME magazine alongside four other Iraq and Afghanistan veterans as part of “The New Greatest Generation,” recognized for bringing their leadership lessons home. He is the co-author of Wounded Homecoming: The Uphill Journey of Wounded Veterans from Battlefield to Homefront and is credited as an author of the Disabled Veterans Housing Support Act, signed into law as Public Law 119-70 in January 2026. John holds an MBA with Distinction from the University of East London.
John is active in his community as a member of Rotary International, a founding President of the Troutman Exchange Club, and Chairman Emeritus of the Statesville Housing Authority, and has served on the boards of the Statesville Chamber of Commerce and the Piedmont Veterans Assistance Council. His honors include the DAR National Medal of Honor, the President’s Volunteer Service Award, Nation’s Finest 50, and the Marshall Legacy Institute’s Landmine Survivors Assistance Award. John is a member of Western Avenue Baptist Church and enjoys reading, working on classic cars, and spending time with his wife, Cori-Anne, and their three children
Miles Gilster
Miles Gilster was born and raised in the great state of Texas, where he spent a majority of his childhood bass fishing local waters, playing sports, and learning the meaning of service from the many Marine veterans who neighbored him. Their stories and patriotism shaped his own sense of duty from a young age.In 2019, Miles enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a Seabee, working as an Equipment Operator Second Class. His four-year military career took him across the country from San Diego, California to Panama City, Florida, where he was selected to attend Navy Dive School. An injury before graduation ultimately led to being medically dropped from training and a final year stationed in Ventura, California. Then in 2023, Miles honorably completed his service.After transitioning out of the military, Miles chose a new path. He moved to Greenville, South Carolina to be with his girlfriend he met during dive training in Florida, and soon began pursuing his bachelor’s degree at Clemson University where he is a current student and involved in the Student Veteran Association.When Miles isn’t studying, he can be found fishing rivers, coyote hunting, planning cross-country duck hunts for over Christmas break, or chasing his true love, public land whitetail deer. The outdoors was important to Miles’ childhood and now more than ever has become a powerful form of therapy for him. The woods have helped guide his transition into civilian life and been a pure source of peace for his journey.From Texas, to Navy bases, to the mountains and rivers of the Southeast, Miles carries with him a lifelong respect for hard work, service, and the freedom of the outdoors.
Miles Gilster
Miles Gilster was born and raised in the great state of Texas, where he spent a majority of his childhood bass fishing local waters, playing sports, and learning the meaning of service from the many Marine veterans who neighbored him. Their stories and patriotism shaped his own sense of duty from a young age. In 2019, Miles enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a Seabee, working as an Equipment Operator Second Class. His four-year military career took him across the country from San Diego, California to Panama City, Florida, where he was selected to attend Navy Dive School. An injury before graduation ultimately led to being medically dropped from training and a final year stationed in Ventura, California. Then in 2023, Miles honorably completed his service. After transitioning out of the military, Miles chose a new path. He moved to Greenville, South Carolina to be with his girlfriend he met during dive training in Florida, and soon began pursuing his bachelor’s degree at Clemson University where he is a current student and involved in the Student Veteran Association. When Miles isn’t studying, he can be found fishing rivers, coyote hunting, planning cross-country duck hunts for over Christmas break, or chasing his true love, public land whitetail deer. The outdoors was important to Miles’ childhood and now more than ever has become a powerful form of therapy for him. The woods have helped guide his transition into civilian life and been a pure source of peace for his journey. From Texas, to Navy bases, to the mountains and rivers of the Southeast, Miles carries with him a lifelong respect for hard work, service, and the freedom of the outdoors.
James Goppert
MSG (R) James M. Goppert Joined the US Army on January 9, 1997 in Columbia, South Carolina. He originally joined as a Personnel Service Specialist 75H later to become a Human Resources NCO 42A. MSG (R) Goppert assignment include served in both CONUS and OCONUS locations including: the Military District of Washington, Pentagon, Washington DC; Fort Jackson, SC; Fort Bragg, NC; Fort Hood, TX, Camp Casey and Camp Paige Korea, United States Army in Europe G1, Germany, with additional temporary duty assignments in Afghanistan, Israel, Poland, Kyrgyzstan. MSG (R) Goppert’s favorite assignments include USAREUR G1 as the NCOIC, 1 CAV, 2nd ABCT S1 NCOIC, Fort Hood NCO Academy Instructor, Instructor Certifier, and Test Control Officer, United States Army Student Detachment NCO, and working at the Army Review Board Agency in Washington DC. MSG (R) Goppert retired after over 25 years of active service on November 30, 2022.
Miles Gilster
Miles Gilster was born and raised in the great state of Texas, where he spent a majority of his childhood bass fishing local waters, playing sports, and learning the meaning of service from the many Marine veterans who neighbored him. Their stories and patriotism shaped his own sense of duty from a young age. In 2019, Miles enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a Seabee, working as an Equipment Operator Second Class. His four-year military career took him across the country from San Diego, California to Panama City, Florida, where he was selected to attend Navy Dive School. An injury before graduation ultimately led to being medically dropped from training and a final year stationed in Ventura, California. Then in 2023, Miles honorably completed his service. After transitioning out of the military, Miles chose a new path. He moved to Greenville, South Carolina to be with his girlfriend he met during dive training in Florida, and soon began pursuing his bachelor’s degree at Clemson University where he is a current student and involved in the Student Veteran Association. When Miles isn’t studying, he can be found fishing rivers, coyote hunting, planning cross-country duck hunts for over Christmas break, or chasing his true love, public land whitetail deer. The outdoors was important to Miles’ childhood and now more than ever has become a powerful form of therapy for him. The woods have helped guide his transition into civilian life and been a pure source of peace for his journey. From Texas, to Navy bases, to the mountains and rivers of the Southeast, Miles carries with him a lifelong respect for hard work, service, and the freedom of the outdoors.
Ricky Harris
Master Sergeant (retired) Ricky Harris was born and raised around the Lynchburg VA area and grew up having a deep love for the outdoors. Ricky’s military service began in the Army Reserve component serving as an infantryman until transitioning into active duty to serve as an airborne infantryman, infantry scout and scout-sniper while assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division. The remaining 16 years of his service fell under the SOF umbrella with 3D Special Forces Group in Ft Bragg NC.
While serving with 3D SFG(A) Ricky was deployed to support Operation Enduring Freedom Afghanistan on 5 occasions. Throughout his service as a green-beret Ricky has held various Occupational Skills and Duty Positions including 18B Weapons Sergeant, Operational Sniper, Operations & Intelligence (O&I/18F), Joint Terminal Attack Controller, Combat Dive Supervisor & 18Z Senior Operations/Team Sergeant. Ricky served his cadre time with the John F Kennedy Special Operations Target Interdiction Course later re-named as the Special Forces Sniper Course. His military awards and decorations include the Expert Infantry Badge, Combat Infantry Badge, Ranger Tab, Special Forces Tab, Master Parachutist Wings, Combat Divers Badge, 3x Bronze Stars & ARCOM w/V-Device.
After being medically retired from military service Ricky was called to serve as a Defensive Tactics Instructor for High Risk Personnel. For nearly the next decade Ricky helped share a wide variety of defensive tactics to include advanced level handgun, carbine, CQB, edged weapons defense, hand to hand/detention techniques, emergency vehicle operations/tactical driving and sniper/counter sniper operations with various military units and agencies at the local, state and federal levels of law enforcement across the United States. Negative effects from TBI & PTS prompted Ricky to retire from a high-impact work environment and ignited his current path to mental, physical & spiritual betterment.
Ricky’s volunteer experience includes being a mentor/guide for the veteran inspired hunting & fishing organization named Patriot’s Cove in Noxen PA and has prior service as a reserve peace officer for the state of WV. Ricky and his wife Kay reside in NC and enjoy everything outdoors, fitness training and spending as much time as possible with their 3 adult children and one grandchild.
Miles Gilster
Miles Gilster was born and raised in the great state of Texas, where he spent a majority of his childhood bass fishing local waters, playing sports, and learning the meaning of service from the many Marine veterans who neighbored him. Their stories and patriotism shaped his own sense of duty from a young age. In 2019, Miles enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a Seabee, working as an Equipment Operator Second Class. His four-year military career took him across the country from San Diego, California to Panama City, Florida, where he was selected to attend Navy Dive School. An injury before graduation ultimately led to being medically dropped from training and a final year stationed in Ventura, California. Then in 2023, Miles honorably completed his service. After transitioning out of the military, Miles chose a new path. He moved to Greenville, South Carolina to be with his girlfriend he met during dive training in Florida, and soon began pursuing his bachelor’s degree at Clemson University where he is a current student and involved in the Student Veteran Association. When Miles isn’t studying, he can be found fishing rivers, coyote hunting, planning cross-country duck hunts for over Christmas break, or chasing his true love, public land whitetail deer. The outdoors was important to Miles’ childhood and now more than ever has become a powerful form of therapy for him. The woods have helped guide his transition into civilian life and been a pure source of peace for his journey. From Texas, to Navy bases, to the mountains and rivers of the Southeast, Miles carries with him a lifelong respect for hard work, service, and the freedom of the outdoors.
Chris Hart
Chris Hart is a retired Army Master Sergeant that served from 1997-2026 as a 12B Combat Engineer through Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom conducting route clearance operations. He grew up in Arkansas hunting, fishing, and playing sports. He has coached girls’ competitive volleyball and high school soccer. He is currently transitioning to run and electrical contracting business and will enjoy spending time with family and enjoying the outdoors.
David Howard
David is a United States Navy veteran who served seven years on active duty as an Aviation Electronics Technician, working with naval aviation both on land and at sea. After his tour of duty, he knew he wanted to continue serving the military family and decided to work as a civilian contractor supporting both Navy and Marine Corps aviation. During that time, he has become an advocate for mental health awareness, helping those in our military family understand the importance of taking care of themselves and each other. David loves being around the military community and knows he will always appreciate what service has done for him and those around him. He has been fishing since he was young and loves the outdoors, where there is always something new to learn and an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the moment. Outdoor education and conserving what we love so it can be passed on to future generations are things he hopes to contribute to. He looks forward to learning more about the outdoors and doing his part to better our world through responsible hunting, fishing, and conservation.
Matt Huffman
Lieutenant Colonel Matthew S. Huffman, U.S. Army, Retired, began his military service in 1986 when he enlisted in the South Carolina National Guard as a Rifleman with B Company, 4th Battalion, 118th Infantry, in Chester, South Carolina. His decision to serve was rooted in a commitment to something larger than himself—the values of duty, service, leadership, and taking care of others.
After graduating from The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1988, Matt entered the Regular Army and began a 23-year career as a Medical Service Corps officer. During his military career, he served in a wide variety of command and staff positions and was entrusted with increasing levels of responsibility and leadership. His service took him around the world, including deployments in support of Operation Desert Shield/Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the NATO Peacekeeping Stabilization Force in Bosnia-Herzegovina. He also completed four tours in the Republic of Korea.
Among the most defining aspects of Matt’s military service was the opportunity to serve alongside Soldiers in challenging and demanding environments. Whether deployed in combat, supporting peacekeeping operations, or serving in Korea, he learned firsthand the importance of teamwork, resilience, leadership, and the bonds formed through shared service. His military career culminated in his assignment as Executive Officer of the 65th Medical Brigade in Korea before retiring from the Army in 2011.
Following his military retirement, Matt continued his commitment to public service. He currently serves as an Investigator with the Department of War, Defense Health Agency Office of Inspector General, where he continues to contribute his experience, leadership, and dedication to serving others.
Matt and his wife, Kyong Sun Huffman, reside in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and have two grown children. Although his military career has ended, the values instilled through decades of service continue to shape the way he approaches life: with humility, integrity, perseverance, and a commitment to helping others.
For Matt, military service was never simply about wearing the uniform. It was about the people beside him, the Soldiers he had the privilege to lead and serve with, and the responsibility to leave every organization and every person better than he found them. Those experiences continue to define his understanding of service and his desire to remain connected to the military community and to fellow veterans.
Jim Hutchison
I was born and raised in Chillicothe, OH and attended Ohio University receiving a BS and MBA degree. While in college I was a member of the Ohio National Guard and ROTC program. Upon graduation I was commissioned active duty as a Field Artillery Officer. I completed Airborne, Air Assault and Ranger School during my assignments to the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions. After active duty, I continued to serve in the Ohio National Guard as an OCS Instructor. My civilian career gave me the opportunity to transfer to South Carolina and then later to Clemmons, NC where I have resided for the past 18 years with my wife of 28 years and 2 daughters. My oldest daughter is a senior at the University of North Carolina and my youngest is a junior in high school. I am currently serving as the Vice President in the Mid-Atlantic region for Smurfit Westrock. My hobbies include hunting, fishing and hiking.
Chris Jacobsen
Chris Jacobsen is a native of Northern Minnesota and proudly answered the call to serve his country after the events of September 11th, 2001.He served in the U.S. Army for over 16 years, with a notable career in Special Forces as a Medic that included numerous roles and global deployments.Post service, he discovered a passion for helping veterans and he continues a life of service in the veteran community. He currently works with the Travis Manion Foundation, investing in and helping to empower veterans to become leaders in their communities across the country.
Rowanne Jones
Rowanne Jones is a United States Marine Corps veteran who honorably served five years as an Administrative Specialist. She is currently a senior at Clemson University, majoring in Marketing with a minor in Management.
During her time in the Marine Corps, Rowanne gained experience with firearms and developed an interest in shooting and marksmanship. She still enjoys spending time at the shooting range, along with being outdoors, traveling, and exploring new places.
Outside of her hobbies, Rowanne has a background in sales and experiential marketing, traveling across the country representing different brands at festivals, sporting events, and promotional activations. In addition to her marketing work, she also works as a Field Representative for the U.S. Census Bureau while finishing her degree at Clemson.
Rowanne also enjoys volunteering and giving back to her community. She values the friendships and camaraderie that come with military service and looks forward to connecting with fellow veterans, enjoying the outdoors, and making new memories at the Andy Quattlebaum Warrior Hunt.
Ed Kelly
Ed Kelly was raised in Norristown, Pennsylvania, and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point with a degree in Civil Engineering. Following graduation, he commissioned as an Infantry Officer in the U.S. Army and served with the 82nd Airborne Division. He later completed Special Forces training and served as a Green Beret with the 5th Special Forces Group. He continues to serve in the Army National Guard.
After leaving active duty, Ed earned his MBA from the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business. He currently works as a Regional Partner with New Page Capital, a firm that acquires and operates small businesses. His work focuses on businesses in southeastern Pennsylvania and the surrounding region.
Ed remains involved in the veteran community and enjoys helping fellow veterans transition into civilian careers and explore opportunities in business and entrepreneurship. He is also involved in his local church and Knights of Columbus council.
Ed grew up hunting with his father, brother, and uncle, developing an appreciation for the outdoors from an early age. During his time on active duty, he continued hunting with mentors, peers, and soldiers, building friendships and sharing time together outside of the military. Today, he primarily enjoys bowhunting for whitetail deer and pursuing small game in Pennsylvania and is introducing his three young sons to hunting and the outdoors at an early age. He hopes to pass along the same traditions and experiences he enjoyed growing up.
Ed lives in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Emily, their three young sons, and their golden retriever, Rusty.
Bevin Klimek
Born and raised in Toledo, Ohio, Bevin Klimek grew up envisioning herself as more of a Barbie than a G.I. Jane. While a military career wasn't necessarily part of her childhood plans, she always knew she wanted to pursue a path centered around serving others—a passion that ultimately led her to the United States Army.
After graduating from Xavier University in 2015, Bevin commissioned as a Medical Service Corps Officer, beginning a journey that would take her across the country. Her military career kicked off in San Antonio, Texas, at the Basic Officer Leadership Course, followed by a stop in Colorado, where she had the opportunity to work alongside some of her favorite Field Artillery friends. From there, she made her way back to Texas, supporting broader Army medical operations and gaining invaluable experience in leadership, teamwork, and service.
Following her time in uniform, Bevin transitioned into the information technology industry before finding her way to Cameron-Brooks, where she now serves as a Recruiter. In this role, she has the privilege of helping fellow military officers navigate their transition from active duty and discover meaningful career opportunities in the corporate world. It's a role that allows her to continue doing what initially drew her to military service—making a difference in the lives of others.
Outside of her professional life, Bevin finds her greatest joy in spending time with her husband and their children. Since meeting her husband, the outdoors has become an important part of their family's life, offering opportunities to unwind, reconnect, and create lasting memories. While they enjoy just about any excuse to get outside, the mountains of Montana hold a particularly special place in her heart.
Pete Klimek
Pete Klimek commissioned as an Armor Officer in the United States Army through ROTC upon graduating from the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. He was an honor graduate of the Army Reconnaissance Course and went on to be assigned to First Cavalry Division in then named Fort Hood, Texas. While assigned to First Cavalry Division, Pete served as an Abrams Platoon Leader, Maintenance Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer, and Battalion S-4 while serving in rotational deployments to South Korea and Poland. Upon being honorably discharged, Pete moved to Georgetown, South Carolina with his wife and daughter and is blessed with another daughter on the way. Pete works for Altec as an account manager in their auction subsidiary, JJ Kane Auctions, and is pursing an Masters Degree in Business Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
John Kunstbeck
John Kunstbeck recently retired after more than 32 years in the Army, achieving the rank of Brigadier General with his final assignment serving as the Deputy Commanding General-Operations, U.S. Army Cyber Command.
He is a native of Altoona, PA, and he has enjoyed spending time outdoors most of his life. He first enlisted in the Army Reserves in 1993 and retired from Active Duty in 2025.
His deployment experience includes combat service with the 101st Airborne and 1st Cavalry Divisions in Afghanistan. Other deployments include serving as the Deputy J2, Joint Task Force-Bravo, Honduras, and with the 28th Infantry Division in Egypt.
John earned an undergraduate degree in Education from Penn State, a master’s degree in Business Leadership from Duquesne University, and he is a graduate from the U.S. Army War College.
His notable awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star.
Following retirement, John continues to advocate for Veterans, serving as a guest speaker at many Memorial or Veterans Day events. He currently volunteers on the Board of Directors and serves as Treasurer of the CSRA Veteran Cemetery Fund. This effort will bring the largest VA Cemetery in the State of GA to Augusta, an area serving 65,000 Veterans.
John currently resides with his wife and three sons in Appling, GA.
Clebe McClary
First Lieutenant Patrick C. “Clebe” McClary III, USMC (Retired)
Professional Speaker and Author, Clebe McClary Inc. Spouse: Deanna “Dea” First Lieutenant Patrick Cleburne McClary, III, USMC, Retired, known to thousands as “Clebe McClary,” is an American hero.
During the Vietnam War, while some of his contemporaries were staging anti-war protests and desecrating the American flag, the Lowcountry native was serving as a platoon leader in the First Reconnaissance Battalion. On the battalion’s 19th patrol, the unit was attacked by the Viet Cong. Lieutenant McClary was seriously wounded, losing his left arm and left eye, yet he continued to lead his men.
The numerous surgeries and long recovery period that followed could have taken a bitter toll, but he faced his rehabilitation with characteristic determination. In the years since, Lieutenant McClary has become a symbol of courage and hope to the many audiences around the world with whom he has shared his story.
Josh Montgomery
Josh Montgomery served in the U.S. Army from 2004 to 2008 with the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, holding a variety of leadership roles and completing five combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Following his fifth deployment, he was honorably discharged in late 2008 due to combat-related disabilities.
His commitment to service continues through advocacy for individuals with disabilities, support for veterans and first responders, and efforts to introduce women and youth to the outdoors. Josh works with multiple veteran-focused nonprofit organizations and has volunteered for years with hunting programs serving individuals with disabilities and wounded warriors through the Department of Energy and other organizations across the South.
In 2021, Josh earned his undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina Aiken using his Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. He continues to invest in the next generation through community outreach and school-based initiatives, including the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), helping develop confidence, discipline, and outdoor skills.
Josh lives with his family in Pelion, South Carolina, and works full time at the Savannah River Site near Aiken. He also operates cattle and outfitting businesses, supporting local farmers, small businesses, and the traditions of small-town America. Through his work and volunteer service, he creates opportunities for others to experience hunting, fishing, and the outdoors while building meaningful connections and lasting memories.
Eric Montalvo
Eric served in the Marine Corps for 20 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2019. He served as a Supply Officer in 2nd Marine Division, completed a tour on recruiting duty, and was subsequently selected for the Law Education Program where he spent his last 10 years on active duty as a Judge Advocate. Eric deployed twice during his career as a Staff Judge Advocate. First to Afghanistan with Regimental Combat Team 8, and his second deployment was with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Mediterranean and Middle East. He also served as a trial counsel (prosecutor) and Staff Judge Advocate for Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. His last assignment was as the Chief of National Security Law for U.S. Special Operations Command. After retirement, Eric was selected by Amazon to be a Delivery Service Provider (DSP) in Greenville, SC. He and his wife run Next Phase Logistics, which employs more than 100 people and has completed 80,000+ routes and delivered more than 16,000,000 packages over the last 6 years. In addition, Eric practices law by representing criminal clients in state court and conducting residential real estate closings as an attorney with Whalen Montalvo, LLC. In 2022, he was selected to be a member of the Greenville Chamber of Commerce’s flagship leadership program, Leadership Greenville, Class 49. Eric holds a Bachelor's Degree in Public Relations from the University of South Carolina, an MBA from Boston University, a Law Degree from the University of South Carolina, and a Masters in National Security Law from the Army Judge Advocate School. He has been happily married to Holly Montalvo for 24 years, and they have 3 wonderful girls. He enjoys playing golf, being on the lake with his family, and traveling.
Nate Moore
Nate Moore enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2004 as a Combat Engineer. During his eight years of service, he deployed to Iraq in 2006 and Afghanistan in 2010. While serving in Afghanistan, Nate was wounded during an IED and indirect fire (IDF) attack and was subsequently awarded the Purple Heart. Following his military service, he was medically retired from the Marine Corps in 2012.
After leaving the military, Nate continued his commitment to serving others by helping establish a local veterans nonprofit organization. For more than 10 years, he dedicated himself to supporting veterans and their families, helping connect them with resources, opportunities, and services to improve their lives.
Today, Nate serves as Corporate Safety Manager for a national commercial construction company, where he focuses on building a strong safety culture, developing leaders, and ensuring employees return home safely at the end of each workday. He brings his military experience, nonprofit leadership background, and passion for developing people into his work in the construction industry.
Outside of his professional career, Nate is a proud father of two boys, ages 14 and 12. He is also actively involved in his community, helping coach the high school wrestling team in Mauldin, South Carolina.
Thomas Moore
I was born and raised in Blue Ridge SC ang grew up loving the outdoors. Some of the best memories of my life were with my family at my great grandfather’s lake house on Lake Hartwell in Toccoa GA. I grew up fishing, camping and anything outside. It was these activities that helped lay the foundation for my love of the outdoors. I graduated high school in May of 2002 and immediately joined the Marine Corps, where I proudly served for 5.5 yrs (active duty and reserve). I was stationed at Cherry Point MCAS and Camp Lejeune, where I specialized in logistics and assisted with allocating Marines and assets across the globe. While on active duty, I deployed to Guantanamo Bay Cuba and was assigned to Joint Task Force on the global war on terrorism. I also deployed to Fallujah Iraq for the majority of 2006 while assigned to 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion. After leaving active duty I would go on to work in manufacturing for 6 years before finding my home in the Greenville Police Department for the last 14 years. I married to my wife Stephanie for 22 years and have to amazing children, Harper and Jayce.
Tyler Moore
I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2005, rising to the rank of Sergeant and served on active duty until my honorable discharge in 2013. During my enlistment, I was stationed at Camp Pendleton, California and Cherry Point, North Carolina where I served with 1st Marine Division, Regimental Combat Team-5, and MWSS-274. I deployed to Iraq from January 2008-January 2009 with RCT-5 and to Afghanistan from February 2010-September 2010 with MWSS-274. In 2011, I deployed to South America aboard the USS-Oak Hill (LSD-51) where we participated in Amphibious-Southern Partnership Station operation from October to December. This deployment was special to me as we were able to work with the Colombian Marines in Turbo, Colombia and help build a water filtration system for their village as they were only able to collect rainwater for daily living.
Upon discharge from the Marine Corps, I started working for the Greenville Police Department in August 2013 and have been there ever since. I have served in a variety of positions including patrol officer, School Resource Officer, a member of the Crime Response Team, which is a street level narcotics and gang unit, and now in my current position as the Community Outreach Officer. I feel like every position I’ve held has led to my current position where I can use my knowledge, compassion, and care to help bridge the gap between the police department and the community.
I enjoy the outdoors and being in the swamp with my brothers who introduced me to hunting. I have been married to my wife, Amber, for 14 years and we have three children aged 5-11.
Zach Moore
My name is Zach Moore, and I was raised in upstate South Carolina where I developed a love for hunting, fishing, and playing sports. After graduating from high school in 2007, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served with the 2nd Amphibious Assault Battalion in Jacksonville, North Carolina. In 2009, I deployed to Helmand Providence, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. I ended my active service in 2011 earning the rank of Corporal.
Following my military service, I joined the Greenville Police Department in South Carolina where I have served in several roles throughout my career, including uniformed patrol, SWAT, and Investigations. While serving with the department, I also earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the American Military University.
Outside of my professional career, I have been happily married to my wife, Taylor Moore, for 18 years, and we have two children. My military service, law enforcement experience and commitment to my family have all played an important role in shaping who I am today.
Worth Parker
Russell Worth Parker grew up in Athens, Georgia. After more than twenty-seven years as a U.S. Marine, Worth began freelance writing in 2016. Now he is the Editor in Chief for the Tom Beckbe Field Journal, a book author, and has been published in the New York Times, The National Interest, Garden and Gun Magazine, Outdoor Life Magazine, Backcountry Journal, and numerous other print and electronic outlets. Worth lives in Wilmington, NC with his family of humans and animals. He is a hunter and angler who fortunately knows his way to the grocery store, a sub-mediocre but enthusiastic surfer, and a notorious BBQ snob.
Ted Pease
Ted has served 16 years in the Navy between Active Duty and Reserve time. He commissioned as an officer through OCS in Newport Rhode Island. His Active-Duty tours included deployments on the USS Taylor and USS Coronado. He also served as the lead navigation and ship handling instructor for the Independence Class Littoral Combat Ships. He has served as the Training Department Head and Executive Officer for his current reserve unit supporting Europe’s Military Sealift Command. Ted purchased a non-skilled, in-home care company in June of 2023, and has been working hard to serve Veterans and Seniors in his area. He is an active member in his local American Legion and VFW Posts. He is married to his beautiful wife, Diana, and has two little girls, Isabella and Cecilia.
Trevor Peterson
Trevor hails from Steamburg, NY. Upon graduation from high school in 1990, he enlisted in the Army as a radio operator. While in Germany he worked with some EOD Soldiers, and was inspired enough to apply for EOD school which he graduated in 1995. During his time in the Army, he was stationed stateside and overseas with deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo. Additionally he had the pleasure of serving on Johnston Atoll and in Tech Escort: both of these positions are selective and demonstrate his competency and professionalism. After 22 years of service, he retired at the rank of First Sergeant, Trevor spends time volunteering, with his family, and his cherished working dog Gauge. His wife Laura and him, have two children, Morgan and Jake. With the new addition of a daughter-in-law Julie.
David Rocha
MSG Rocha, David G. was born in Galveston, Texas, and raised on the King Ranch in Kingsville, Texas. He enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 17 and has served for 17 years as a combat engineer and special operations engineer.He began his career with the 27th Engineer Battalion at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, conducting route clearance operations in Afghanistan as a Private, Team Leader, Squad Leader, and Platoon Sergeant. After two combat deployments in the conventional Army, he transitioned to the Special Operations community, where he completed seven additional deployments across Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and the Mediterranean.David currently serves as the Troop Sergeant Major for an Engineer Troop under the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, leading a joint team of Active Duty Engineers, GS civilians, and contractors responsible for global infrastructure and facility support.He is a Project Management Professional (PMP), Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and a graduate student at North Carolina State University pursuing a Master of Engineering Management. David has been married to his wife, Amy, for 16 years, and together they have two daughters.
Dave Rozelle
Colonel (Retired) David M. Rozelle is an inspiration and icon among Military Amputees over the last twenty years, and recently completed over twenty-six years of honorable service in the Army. David served primarily as an Armor/Cavalry Officer and led Soldiers in three tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. David lost his right leg below the knee to a land-mine in Iraq in June of 2003, during his first deployment. Stationed at Fort Carson at the time, David found outdoor recreation to be the best therapy during his recovery and worked with several charities to improve opportunities for returning veterans. By returning to Iraq, he became the first military amputee to return to command on the same battlefield as amputation since the US Civil War. In 2005, David published a “NY Times Bestseller” book, Back in Action, which detailed his injury and return to command in the Cavalry. In 2006, while delivering the Military Advanced Amputee Training Center at Walter Reed, David further inspired the country by qualifying for and then winning his division in the Ironman Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Despite his retirement to South Carolina, David continues to serve as an executive leader for the State of South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs. In his free time, he remains active in supporting his fellow military injured.
Victor Sanchez
Victor Sanchez is a third-generation U.S. Army veteran who served as an infantryman with the 173rd Airborne Combat Brigade and the 82nd Airborne Division from 2011 to 2015, completing two combat deployments to Afghanistan.
Following his military service, Victor pursued a career in economic research and workforce development, eventually serving as Director of Workforce Development at the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce. During his time there, he led initiatives supporting veterans transitioning into civilian employment, particularly those separating from Fort Campbell. He has also volunteered with The Honor Foundation, Operation Stand Down Tennessee, and the Veterans Business Readiness Program, mentoring transitioning service members and veterans.
Victor is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Security Studies at the University of Central Florida, where his research focuses on international security and conflict.
An avid outdoorsman, Victor enjoys pheasant and small-game hunting, wildlife conservation, and the camaraderie of spending time outdoors with fellow veterans. He values ethical hunting, stewardship of the land, and the lasting friendships developed through shared experiences. Victor currently lives in Orlando with his wife, Camila.
Nick Simpkins
Nicholas Wesley Simpkins was born and raised in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. After graduating high school in May 2016, he enlisted 11 days later as a U.S. Army infantryman. Upon completing Infantry OSUT (One Station United Training), he immediately attended the U.S. Army Airborne School. Nicholas was first sent to the 173rd in Vicenza, Italy, where he participated in training events across Europe, including Operation Atlantic Resolve. While in the 173rd, Nicholas earned his Expert Infantryman Badge and Ranger tab. After a 2.5-year tour in Italy, he was sent to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where he immediately deployed to Nangarhar province, Afghanistan, in July 2019. In Afghanistan, he participated in Operation Freedom's Sentinel and earned his Combat Infantryman Badge. Upon returning to Fort Bragg, he participated in several training events to support the United States Quick Response Force. He later deployed to the Polish-Ukrainian border in February 2022 to deter Russian aggression during their invasion. Nicholas exited the army in February 2023 to pursue an undergraduate degree in Psychology. Nicholas is currently a senior at North Carolina State and will graduate in December 2026. After graduation, he will pursue a master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in hopes of becoming a Veterans Counselor.
Alden Sims
Alden Sims is from a small town in Northwestern Pennsylvania and received a Bachelors of Health Science - Pre Med from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania. While preparing for Med School and working in a hospital, he soon realized that he did not want to practice medicine in a traditional hospital setting. Alden discovered the Army’s Special Forces Medical Sergeant career path, felt instantly called to it, and after a long journey was blessed to become one. Alden spent 11 years in the US Army where he deployed to the Middle East, Asia, and South America. Now, Alden owns and operates a tree service company in Greenville, South Carolina. Alden has always been an avid outdoorsman and has enjoyed hunting whitetail deer with his grandfather on his family’s farm, snow goose in Arkansas, and bull moose in Newfoundland. Alden’s full faith, trust, and hope is in the Lord Jesus Christ, is happily married to his wife Sara, and has two young boys, Henry and Wendell. In addition to serving his family and clients, Alden cheerfully serves in his local church, in the Special Forces Association Chapter 363, the Special Operator Transition Foundation, Upstate Warrior Solutions, Upstate Veteran Business Network, and Gods Pit Crew Disaster Response Ministry.
Rob Sterling
Robert Sterling was born and raised in the mountains of Vermont and was taught the importance of service to his community and a love of the outdoors, hunting and fishing by his father. He began his life of service at the age of 16, volunteering as an emergency care attendant with his local rescue squad. After graduating High School in 1992 he followed his dream of being in Law Enforcement and rescue, and joined the United States Coast Guard.
While in the Coast guard Robert served on board the Coast Guard Cutter Reliance out of Portsmouth, NH. His main job was navigation, operations and communications but he also served as an Emergency Medical Technician and a boarding team member, conducting fisheries patrols off the North West Atlantic and Law Enforcement and humanitarian operations off of Cuba and Haiti.
In 1996 Robert left the Coast Guard and began his career as a Vermont State Fish and Game Warden. Robert patrolled his district in VT to include the southern portion of Lake Champlain and Lake Bomoseen, and the surrounding towns. As a district Warden, Robert passionately took care of the people within his district while protecting the fish and wildlife resources entrusted to him.
In the 26 years that Robert was a Game Warden he was a canine handler for 18. Robert had K9 Rufus and K9 Crockett, both black labs trained in gun powder detection. Both dogs made numerous finds of people, both good guys and bad. Robert’s dogs were known well in his district and not only were they used for law enforcement and rescue but they helped law enforcement be more approachable to the citizens they encountered. Robert performed countless public demonstrations with his dogs. Robert also formalized VT Fish and Wildlife’s canine program and created a structured program of training and standards that allowed for the department to have a successful canine program for generations to come.
Robert’s passion and dedication to his canines had a huge impact to VT. In 2012 K9 Rufus was called to help locate a missing 12 year old autistic boy. It was April in VT and the weather that night was projected to get down to 20 degrees. After tracking almost 4 miles, K9 Rufus shot over a hill, made a hard turn on to a trail and found the boy in his windbreaker, underwear and a pair of Crocks.
Robert ended his career as a Warden with a similar track of a missing 6 year old autistic boy. Family had been looking for the boy for hours and a previous K9 had already searched the area with no success. This time K9 Crockett was on the trail and found the boy in less then 10 minutes and the boy was only 150 yards away.
Robert retired from the State of Vermont in 2022. He still has a great love for the outdoors and the wildlife he protected. Robert moved with his family in 2025 to SC and now works with property and evidence for the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office.
Eric Stetson
Eric W. Stetson is a retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel who graduated from Lafayette College and served on active duty in the Army from June 1991 until September 2015. His final military assignment was as the Professor of Military Science at the University of Illinois Urbana - Champaign. Eric deployed to Bosnia, Kosovo, Qatar, Iraq, and Afghanistan in various leadership positions. Upon retiring from the service, he became a certified Ennea International Leader and Team consultant. He consulted in education, leadership, and team development before working full-time in the veteran career development arena with FourBlock, a national not-for-profit veteran support organization, as a region director and director of engagement and enrollment. Eric’s passion is people and specifically supporting fellow veterans, and he thrives in collaborative environments where he can help others realize their full potential. He consults in leadership and team development, and he is also a member of the Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network and the Penn & Franklin AUSA Chapter. In 2000, he married his wife Nena, who is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and they have one daughter, an aspiring high school teacher.
Chuck Swannack
Major General Charles H. (Chuck) Swannack, Jr. was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry from the United States Military Academy on 9 June 1971. He has proudly served his Nation for thirty plus years in command and staff positions at every level from platoon to Department of the Army.
Prior to retiring, MG Swannack commanded the 82nd Airborne Division from October 2002-May 2004. During this time, he provided forces to Combined Joint Task Force-180 for combat operations in Afghanistan, and he personally led the Division during combat operations from Kuwait to Baghdad and later civil-military operations in Al Anbar Province, western Iraq.
Prior general officer assignments include: Commanding General of Multinational Division (North) and Task Force Eagle during Operation JOINT FORGE (SFOR 11) in Bosnia-Herzegovina, where he oversaw implementation of the Dayton Peace Accords; Commanding General of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk, where he was the senior trainer for all Light, Airborne, Air Assault, Ranger and Special Forces units in the Army; and Deputy Director for Strategy, Plans and Policy within the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans, Headquarters, Department of the Army. His initial assignment as a general officer was with the 82nd Airborne Division as the Assistant Division Commander (Operations).
As a Brigade Commander, MG Swannack deployed to Haiti for peacekeeping operations during Operation UPHOLD DEMOCRACY. He also served in the Strategic Plans and Policy Directorate, J5, the Joint Staff, where he was instrumental in developing and executing US strategy and policy for Central America and the Caribbean Basin. As a Battalion Commander, he deployed to Panama during Operation NIMROD DANCER and subsequently participated in combat operations during Operation JUST CAUSE.
MG Swannack is a graduate of Capstone and the National War College. He holds a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
His decorations include the Legion of Merit (6OLC) and Bronze Star Medal (1OLC). He proudly wears the Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, 82nd ABD Century Wings and Ranger Tab.
Initially in retirement, MG Swannack provided consultation services to multiple defense corporations and primarily served in the capacity of a trainer, coach and mentor to Brigade Combat Teams preparing to deploy to Iraq and Afghanistan. From 2010-2013, he served as CEO of the Logistics Services Division, Louis Berger Services (formerly US Logistics, Inc.) a $50MM veteran logistics services company where he managed the transformation of US Logistics from an entrepreneurship located in Fayetteville NC to a fully functioning corporation able to join the parent company in Greenville SC.
In early 2014, MG Swannack joined Speedway Motorsports as Executive Director for Speedway Children’s Charities, a 501c (3) nonprofit, with the mission of assisting underprivileged children to become productive adults. In early 2019, MG Swannack was named Vice President, Armed Forces Affairs and now leads an initiative “Welcome Home Patriots” to improve the lives of post-servicemen and servicewomen.
He also serves as President of the Patriot Military Family Foundation in Mooresville NC, and actively supports many other military charities as a means of “giving back” to those who served him so well during his military career.
MG Swannack is married, has twin children and eight grandchildren.
Scott Thomas
Scott Thomas is a former U.S. Air Force Captain who now lives in Greenville, South Carolina. His service included Hurricane Katrina response and a deployment to Afghanistan, where he volunteered to serve as a reconstruction engineer in Mehtar Lam, Laghman Province. Working alongside Army and Marine personnel, he helped rebuild local infrastructure.
Since leaving the military, Scott has led technology businesses across several industries. He currently serves as CEO and Partner at AWALI, helping businesses use AI and technology to solve practical challenges and grow.
Giving back to veterans and honoring the fallen is personal for Scott. His brother-in-law, Sgt. Kenneth “Kenny” Schall, was killed in Iraq in May 2005 at age 22. From 2007–2022, Scott supported the Kenny Schall Memorial Golf Tournament and scholarship program as a board member and volunteer. He currently serves on the UVBN board and is passionate about giving back to veteran entrepreneurs.
An Eagle Scout, Scott also gives his time to Scouting, his church, and nonprofit technology projects. He looks forward to connecting with fellow veterans and sharing the camaraderie of the Warrior Hunt.
Zac Tilley
Zac Tilley graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and a commission in the United States Navy. Following commissioning, he reported aboard USS MASON (DDG 87), where he served as First Lieutenant, Main Propulsion Officer, and Navigator. During his assignment, MASON deployed with the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group during its 2023–2024 deployment to the Middle East, supporting maritime security operations throughout the region.
Zac currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Naval Science and Operations Officer at the North Carolina State University Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps, where he instructs and mentors future Naval Officers. He is also pursuing a Master of Business Administration at North Carolina State University. Prior to his naval career, Zac worked as a charter fisherman in Carolina Beach, North Carolina. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors
Pete Warner
Pete Warner is currently an instructor at the Pennsylvania Gunsmith School, where he specializes in firearms restoration and building 1911 pistols. Before entering the civilian world, Pete spent 13 years in the US Army serving as a Joint Fire Support Specialist. During his time with the US Army, he served with 82nd Airborne Division, 173rd Airborne Brigade, and 25 Infantry Division, deploying three times(2 OEF, 1 OIF). He left the Army in 2017 as a Sergeant First Class. After military service, Pete decided to pursue his passion for firearms by attending the Pennsylvania Gunsmith School, where he graduated with high honors. Upon graduation he started his gunsmithing career at Cabot Guns, a world-renowned manufacturer of luxury 1911 and 2011 pistols. Pete decided to return to his alma mater to help grow the profession, while helping aspiring gunsmiths to realize their passion and creativity. Pete lives in western Pennsylvania with his wife Emily, and daughters Ellie and Mirren. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and camping in his spare time. Pete believes that it is his love for the outdoors that has helped him transition from military to civilian life, providing him peace and a sense of purpose.
Greg White
CSM Gregory White began his military career in 1989 upon enlisting in the U.S. Army attending Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sill Oklahoma and then being assigned to A Battery 3rd Battalion 41st Field Artillery Regiment, 24th Infantry Division at Fort Stewart Georgia.CSM White deployed with the 24th ID in support of Operation Desert Shield/Storm 1990-1991, Operation Noble Eagle with the 2-142 Field Artillery Battalion in 2002-2003, and with Bravo Battery 2-142 Field Artillery Battalion as a platoon sergeant in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2006-2007.After serving three years in the Active Duty Army, CSM White transitioned into the National Guard and has served over 32 of his 35 years in uniform with the Arkansas Army National Guard. He has held various assignments and leadership positions within the State to include 2-142 Field Artillery Battalion Master Gunner, Director of Military Support Plans and Operations NCOIC, 875th Engineer Battalion Command Sergeant Major, 87th Troop Command BDE Operations Sergeant Major, Arkansas Army National Guard Operations Sergeant Major, Recruiting and Retention Battalion Command Sergeant Major, and Command Sergeant Major for the 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, the nominative Senior Enlisted Advisor position in the office of the Deputy Commanding General, Army National Guard, United States Army Forces Command at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and is currently serving as the Senior Enlisted Leader of the Arkansas National Guard.
Jesse Yandell
Jesse served in the U.S Army for 20 years where he was a member of both the 1st and 2d Ranger Battalions, 75th Ranger Regiment, holding a variety of leadership roles. He had 16 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, before retiring as a First Sergeant. Additionally, he has been awarded the Purple Heart, six Bronze Stars (including a Bronze Star with Valor), two Meritorious Service medals, the Order of St. Maurice, and the Legion of Merit. In his spare time, Jesse is an advocate for bettering the lives of American veterans. He actively works with multiple veteran-focused non-profit organizations. He currently lives in Columbia, South Carolina, with his wife, Taryn, and their 13-year-old twins, Braya and Justin.