2025 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 California and North as New York. 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.
Butch Adams
Butch is retired after serving in the Army from 1971-1992 as an Infantryman. He has served in a multitude of roles during his time in service to include that of Drill Sergeant and his most rewarding position as a First Sergeant. As a First Sergeant, he led his men of Alpha Company 3/7 INF of the 24th Infantry Division in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Butch retired from the military and entered civilian life working as an assistant manager for a Walmart Distribution Center where he retired in 2016. He is fully retired and spends most of his time with his wife (Jackie) fishing. He is the proud father of five adult kids, 13 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
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.
Ryan Andersen
MAJ Ryan Andersen is an active-duty U.S. Army officer currently pursuing a Ph.D. at North Carolina State University.
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Ryan began his career as an Aviation Officer, serving in the 101st Airborne Division, 82nd Airborne Division, and 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne). After transitioning to Functional Area 49, he held key positions at The Research and Analysis Center, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and with the 10th Mountain Division (Light).
His operational experience includes two combat deployments to Afghanistan and additional deployments to Korea and Europe.
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A dedicated family man, Ryan has been married to his wife, Christie, for 10 years. Together, they have three wonderful children. An avid outdoorsman, Ryan finds joy in hunting and fly fishing, often sharing these passions with his children and fellow veterans, fostering connection and camaraderie in the great outdoors.
Chris Behn
I was born and raised in Western NY. As a kid I enjoyed team sports like hockey and baseball. I began deer hunting with my father and continued hunting as I grew older. Currently I enjoy any hunting I can participate in with my retriever. When I was 18 I enlisted in the USMC. I deployed
around the world numerous times and served the final 20 years of my time in the Marines as an EOD Technician. I retired in December 2013 after almost 29 years of service.
John Bray
John Bray is a retired Colonel of the United States Army, having been commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) in 1989 after completing his studies at Appalachian State University in Biology. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Chemical Corps and served from 1990 until 2017. He transitioned to the role as a Army Force Manager in 2002 and undertook various assignments both stateside and overseas, including deployments to both Kuwait and Afghanistan (w/101st Airborne Division). Following his retirement from military service, John transitioned into a civilian role within the Army, where he served as a capability developer for both U.S. Army Forces Command and the U.S. Army Special Operations Command. He is currently a graduate student at North Carolina State University, pursuing a master’s degree in education with the goal of becoming a high school social studies teacher. John values his off time on the water and volunteers as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary at Flotilla 12-10 in Georgetown, South Carolina. He is married and has four children, two of whom have also served in the Army.
Nathan Browning
Nathan was raised in Raleigh, North Carolina from infancy, where he attended primary school and was involved heavily with the Boy Scouts of America until achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in 2015. At 18 years old, he enlisted in the United States Navy as an Aviation Electronics Technician. He would go on to perform maintenance on communication, navigation, weapons systems, and other avionics on the Navy's 5th generation stealth aircraft F-35 Lightning II aboard VFA-101 Grim Reapers, formerly located at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Nathan would then change duty stations in 2018 to VFA-213 Black Lions at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and work avionics and weapons systems on the F/A-18F Super Hornet. Nathan spent time underway aboard several US Navy Aircraft Carriers, including the 2020-2021 deployment aboard the USS Theodore Roosvelt to the South China Sea with the VFA-87 Golden Warriors. After his honorable discharge in 2022, he returned to North Carolina to follow his calling to higher education, and began taking college courses. In the Summer of 2023, Nathan was selected to deploy to McMurdo Station, Antarctica, where he would perform planning, supervision, and execution of fuels related maintenance during the Antarctic "Winfly" season in preparation for Antarctic summer operations. He was on ice from August through November of 2023. Since returning to North Carolina after a stint in Antarctica, Nathan has been pursuing a degree in Environmental Technology & Management at North Carolina State University.
Mike Burghardt
Michael Burghardt is a retired United States Marine Master Seargent, serving in the infantry from 1988 to 1991 after Desert Storm volunteered for explosive ordnance disposal and would serve as EOD technician until 2009. After retirement served as an counter IED subject matter expert for multiple countries, United States State department, and various companies.
LTC (R) JIMMY CARLSON
Jimmy Carlson is currently the Revenue Protection (RP) Supervisor for Georgia Power Company in their Corporate Security Section. He is responsible for providing leadership, direction, and performance management for Corporate Security’s RP team of Armed Investigators. He proudly served 25 years active duty in the US Army Military Police where he successfully completed 3 combat tours (Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan) and four tours in Operations Other than War (OOTW) (Panama x 2, Haiti, and Kosovo. He was a 2 x Battalion Commander (Korea, FT. Campbell) and 2 x Company Commander (Korea and Fort Bragg). He earned the Combat Action Badge, Master Parachutist Badge and Air Assault Badge.
Jimmy has a Master of Arts (MA) focused in Business and Organizational Security Management from Webster University. He has a proven ability to interact and collaborate with multiple levels of management at the Federal, State and Local Level. Skilled in Training and Security Operations, Government, Executive Protection, Law Enforcement, Crisis Management and Coordinating Special Events. He lives in Roswell, Ga. He is divorced and has four children – Emily, Alyssa, Taylor and Aiden.
Alan Dabney
Alan Dabney retired from Active Duty with the South Carolina Army National Guard AGR program in 2017 with over twenty years’ service after spending twelve years as a traditional part-time Guardsman; thirty-two total years.
Promoted upon retirement to Master Sergeant, he spent his last five in a Battalion S3 Operations role.
Alan has deployed to Belize, Egypt, S.Korea, Kuwait, and Iraq.
Upon retirement, he spent eight long months assisting family, friends, and neighbors before returning as a Veteran Advisor contractor with the South Carolina Army Guard’s Service Member Family Care program. After fourteen months as Veteran Advisor, Alan was asked to serve as Director of Greenville County Veteran Affairs as the Service Officer and has led Greenville County to become a leader in Veteran claims assistance and outreach.
Alan serves the Veteran community as a member of the American Legion, VFW, Marine Corps League, Vietnam Veterans of America, Vets Helping Vets, and Healing Waters Veteran fly-fishing program. He has also assisted the NWTF with disabled Veteran dove shoots. As a tribal member, he also serves on the Catawba Nation Veteran Advisory Board.
Alan has been married to his high school sweetheart Carla since 1983. They have two daughters, one son, SIX grandsons, and too many cats. He enjoys all types of hunting with turkeys holding a close lead over deer and also loves time on his John Deere tractor when planting or just playing.
Member of:
American Legion
VFW
Vietnam Veteran of America
Marine Corp League
Korea Veteran Association
Catawba Indian Nation Veteran Advisory Committee
Ed Dennis
Ed Dennis is a retired US Army Major commissioned through Officer Candidate School in 1997. Ed served from 1989 to 2010 starting as a Private in the role of Military Policeman and finished his service as an EOD Officer serving as the Commander of the Weapons of Mass Destruction Coordination Element with numerous assignments stateside and overseas including deployments to Bosnia and Iraq. He has always had a passion for volunteering ranging from coaching little-league sports to doing work for several nationally recognized Veteran Service Organizations. Upon retirement Ed worked in higher education assisting thousands of Veterans, Service Members, and their family members earn college degrees culminating as the Vice-President for Military and Veterans Affairs at a large college. He transitioned from higher education to the non-profit sector in 2024 and currently works as the Executive Director for the Andy Quattlebaum and Blackwell Family Foundation in a rewarding position that allows him to pursue his passion of serving others. He is divorced with two children, Eddie and Kayley, and his dog Milo.
Ralph DeQuebec
Born in the Harbor Area of California in 1983, Ralph graduated from San Pedro High School in 2001, where he excelled as an athlete and leader.
Military Service
Ralph served in the U.S. Marine Corps (2002–2016), starting as an Aviation Ordnanceman before transitioning to Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) in 2005. He deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan (2008, 2010, 2012) where he was injured by an IED on June 21, 2012, resulting in the bilateral amputation of his legs above the knee. For his bravery, he was awarded the Purple Heart and retired as a Gunnery Sergeant.
Athletic Achievements
• 2x Paralympic Gold Medalist: PyeongChang 2018, Beijing 2022.
• Member of the U.S. National Sled Hockey Team (2017–2023).
• 2x World Champion: 2019, 2021.
• 3x National Champion: 2017, 2022, 2024 (Colorado Avalanche).
Nick Drake
Nick Drake enlisted in the Army Reserve in November 2000, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant before exiting in 2010. After nearly a six-year break in service, he rejoined the military in December 2015 as a member of the North Carolina Army National Guard, where he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant through Officer Candidate School in 2017.Currently serving as a Captain, Nick has held various leadership positions, including Alpha Company, 1-252nd Armor, Commander; 1-252nd Armor Regiment, Assistant S-3; 1-120th Infantry Regiment, Scout Platoon Leader; Delta Troop, 1-150th Calvary Squadron, Executive Officer and C Company, 1-120th Infantry Regiment, Platoon Leader. He is currently assigned to the 139th Regiment Regional Training Institute as a Platoon Trainer with the Officer Candidate School. Over his 19 year career, Nick has deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (2003-2004), Operation Iraqi Freedom (2007-2008), and Operations Spartan Shield and Inherent Resolve (2019-2020).
In addition to his military career, Nick serves as the Director of Military and Veteran Services at North Carolina State University where he is responsible for supporting the institution's nearly 3,000 military-connected students and families. He holds multiple degrees from Cortland State University, Xavier University, and the University of Kentucky. Currently, he is in his fourth year working towards a Ph.D. at NC State. Nick resides in Raleigh, NC with his wife, Jenn, and their three children: Peyton, Landon, and Ryan.
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.
Aaron Gagné
Aaron Gagné is a retired US Navy Lieutenant commissioned through the direct- commission program in 2006. With no prior service and in the middle of two active wars, at the age of 36 he decided to seek a 2 year age waiver and raise his right hand to demonstrate service-to-country first hand to his then 5 year old son. During his 9 years in uniform, he served two back-to-back deployments with USN Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group One in Iraq, as well as other assignments including with the storied Navy Seabees. As a civilian, Aaron holds advanced degrees in urban planning and economics and over 30 years experience in community development and long term disaster recovery. He is the owner of College Fund Sportfishing in Charleston, South Carolina, a small business built around returning 100% of profits to veterans programs and allied causes.
Sam Gest
Captain Sam Gest is an active-duty Engineer Officer in the Army. He is currently pursuing a graduate degree at North Carolina State University through the Advanced Civil Schooling Program. He lives in Raleigh, NC, with his wife, Kate, and their chocolate lab. Outside of work, Sam has a deep passion for outdoor activities, particularly hunting, fishing, and exploring nature.
Sam's previous military assignments include Company Command in the 130th Engineer Brigade at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii and Sapper Platoon Leader in the 4th Infantry Division, at Fort Carson, Colorado. He has supported various Operation Pathways exercises across the Pacific theater and numerous live fire training exercises.
Sam is a graduate of the Engineer Captains Career Course, the Engineer Basic Officer Leader Course, and Ranger School. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Virginia Tech.
John Gronski
Major General John L. Gronski (U.S. Army, Retired) is founder and CEO of Leader Grove LLC, a leadership consulting firm. John is the author of two books, Iron-Sharpened Leadership, The Ride of Our Lives, and Leadership Sharpeners. John is an international and Fortune 500 speaker, leadership trainer, and executive coach. John holds an MBA from Penn State and a Master of Strategic Studies from the US Army War College.
John is a decorated combat Veteran. Key assignments include Deputy Commanding General for National Guard at US Army Europe 2016-2019, Commanding General of the 28th Infantry Division 2012-2016, and Brigade Commander in Ramadi, Iraq 2005-2006.
General Gronski is a graduate of numerous Army schools including the United States Army War College, the Infantry Officer Advanced Course, Ranger School, and Airborne School. His awards include the Army Distinguished Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Bronze Star, and Iraq Campaign Medal. He has also received awards from the governments of Poland and Lithuania for his work with their armed forces.
Learn more about John Gronski at https://johngronski.com/
Charlie Hall
Charlie was born and raised in York, South Carolina. He is a graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point and served on active duty for 10 years in both the Army and Marine Corps. After a combat deployment to Iraq in 2005, Charlie moved to Greenville, South Carolina and began work in the private sector at Harper Corporation – General Contractors and the USMC Reserves. Charlie then served on active duty as the District Injured Support Coordinator for the states of South Carolina and Georgia with the Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior Regiment from 2009 – 2014, while volunteering with Upstate Warrior Solution in its formative years. In addition to being the President of Upstate Warrior Solution, Charlie continues to serve in the US Marine Corps Reserves. He and his wife Elizabeth live in Greenville, SC and have three children.
Oliver Hartner
Oliver served in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF III, 2004-2005) with the Louisiana Army National Guard as a Combat Engineer (12B). His unit, 256th Infantry BCT, 769th Engineer Battalion, Bravo Company, was engaged in route clearance, cordon and search, and EOD escort in and around the city of Baghdad for all their tour. He separated from service as a staff sergeant at the conclusion of his deployment and continued his education at the University of Mississippi where in 2007, he earned two undergraduate degrees in both English and Classics. He went on to earn a graduate degree in Public Administration from the University of South Carolina in 2010.
He has lived in Columbia, South Carolina for the last 15 years, and in that time has married his loving wife Rebecca, and two years ago they welcomed their daughter Virginia into the world. He and his wife have served their community over the years as volunteers or board members of Historic Columbia Foundation, Columbia Opportunity Resource, Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, Ducks Unlimited, Quail Forever, and the South Carolina Bobwhite Initiative.
As often as able, he escapes the urban environs accompanied by his Boykin Spaniel, "Fowler,” to explore and marvel at the beauty of creation within his beloved Palmetto State and beyond. He has published stories about various conservation topics as well as hunting and lifestyle articles in Covey Rise Magazine, USA Today, Shooting Sportsman, Ducks Unlimited Magazine, Quail Forever Journal, and the Tom Beckbe Field Journal.
Gerald Harmon
Major General Gerald E. Harmon (U.S. Air Force, Retired) epitomizes the concept of the Citizen-Soldier. Prior to retirement he served as the Air National Guard assistant to the surgeon general, United States Air Force, Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C. He served as the principal adviser on Air National Guard medical service matters to the surgeon general. His responsibilities included coordinating medical policies, plans, and programs for the Air National Guard.
Currently, Dr. Gerald Harmon is a decorated South Carolina physician who began his appointment as interim dean at the School of Medicine Columbia on Aug. 1, 2023.
In his interim appointment, Harmon maintains relationships with the school’s clinical partners, including Prisma Health, as well as keeping a steady focus on high-impact research and improving the health of South Carolinians.
Harmon works with leadership to ensure that all graduate programs within medicine are represented and that the upcoming accreditation process is seamless. He also hopes to set up for success the future dean in the launch of the new home for the School of Medicine at the BullStreet District.
Harmon is the immediate past president of the American Medical Association, and he currently serves as vice president of medical affairs at Tidelands Health as well as a family physician at Tidelands Health Family Medicine.
Rob Healy
To sum up my military career and professional life after the military I have been dedicated to protecting and helping others. As a Security Policeman I stood guard while others slept, as a senior NCO I watched over the Airman assigned to me. After the military my duties in Veterans Services for a college was to ensure the Veteran students I came in contact with, whether they attended my school or not, got the full education benefits they’d earned. My program was recognized as the #2 in the nation by Victory Media as “Best for Vets”©. Now as an Veterans Administration Education Liaison Representative I continue that work ensuring schools and companies understand how to provide those benefits to their students and employees.
In 2018 I was introduced to Buffalo New York Veterans Odyssey. My oldest son and several of the students at my university were being taught to use a camera to reconnect with the civilian world. The goal of Buffalo Odyssey is to assist Veterans suffering from PTSD & Sexual Trauma to readjust to civilian life by using photographs to help share their life experiences and how they feel. In 2022 I was asked to go through the Odyssey workshop, the workshop helped to express my thoughts and feelings. My passion was to go outside and photograph landscapes and animals. I have found the skills I developed as a Security Policemen of sitting and watching have paid off in my ability to have patience and wait for sun to be in the perfect spot or for the wild to settle down and accept my presence. I just went over 10,000 photographs taken, my most successful photo is a double exposure that the Founder of Odyssey, Brandon Bannon, has used several times in advertising Odyssey to donors and upcoming classes. I now volunteer as a mentor to the current Odyssey group. Helping these veterans to use photograph to express themselves and reconnect with the community they live in.
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.
Jon James
After graduating from The Citadel in 1988, I was commissioned a Medical Service Corps officer in the U.S. Army. During my 24-year career, I deployed to Operation Desert Storm (Saudi Arabia and Kuwait), Operation Joint Endeavor (Bosnia) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (three times). My jobs have ranged from managing the pollution prevention program at the U.S. Army Operations Support Command, which
managed all army ammunition plants and depots, to functioning as the group environmental science officer with both the 3rd and 5th Special Forces Groups (Airborne). Since retiring from the army in 2012, I have conducted some independent consulting, as well as being a house dad. I am married to Susan James and have one son, Ayden, who is in college. I currently live in Virginia.
Anthony Johnson
Anthony Johnson retired after 30 years of military and government service. In 1990 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and deployed to Operation Desert Storm (First Gulf War) and Mogadishu, Somalia as an infantry/reconnaissance Marine. After graduating from Bemidji State University in 1997 he received his commission. As an Infantry Officer he deployed with a Marine Expeditionary Unit before transitioning to the School of Infantry. He then deployed as a Force Reconnaissance Det. Commander to Iraq (Second Gulf War). Next, he served at Marine Special Operations School (MSOS), Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC) at MARSOC’s inception. He deployed with a Joint Task Force as a Counter-Improvised Explosives Device (C-IED) Support Element Officer in Afghanistan. Upon completion of his military time in 2010, he transitioned to a USG organization where he deployed to multiple countries in Southeast and Southwest Asia, Middle East, East Africa, and Eastern Europe. He is an avid outdoorsman currently developing American Hunting Heritage. A podcast intended
to capture the love of the outdoors as well as support nonprofit organizations focusing on the betterment of our veterans and children through outdoor pursuits. He is married and his wife is an Air Force veteran and operational psychologist for the USG. They have three children, one who is an active-duty Marine.
Dick Jones
Dick Jones is a retired US Army Major commissioned through Officer Candidate School in 1998. Dick served from 1987 to 2018 starting as a Private in the role of Cavalry Scout with the 3rd ACR. He deployed with the 82nd Airborne in Desert Shield/Storm, the 39th Infantry Brigade (AR ARNG) to OIF2, and the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Afghanistan (NE ARNG) from 2010-11. Dick retired from Title 10 active duty with the Army National Guard Bureau in 2018 and moved his family outside of Boone, NC. There he loves to do outdoor activities, especially hiking and flyfishing. Dick has served on several boards for local non-profit organizations and is very active with his church. He began work on the Masters of Accounting online program with NC State in 2024 and plans to begin a second career in investment banking, eventually starting his own business.
David Jurado
David Jurado served in the ARMY with 25th Infantry Division Schofield Barracks, Hawaii from 2005 to 2009. Assigned with 1-21 Infantry “Gimlets” B CO 4th Platoon “Reapers” and deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2007 to 2009. During his deployment David participated in many combat missions as a Stryker Driver and Radio Telephone Operator throughout parts of Baghdad and Sadr City. David was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign star, and authorized to wear a “Gimlet stick” which is a high honor within his company and must pass physical, mental, and knowledge tasks as an Infantryman in Hawaii’s jungle terrain.
Upon his honorable discharge from active duty, David served in the ARMY Reserves with 371st Chemical Battalion in Greenwood, South Carolina from 2009 to 2012 and was medically discharged with rank of Specialist. Upon discharge David was an Executive Director with Companions for Heroes and connected shelter animals with veterans alongside his Service Dog “Willett”. He attended Argosy University and completed his Bachelors degree in Psychology. Currently David volunteers with Wounded Warrior Project as a Peer Mentor and has been for over 14 years. With the mission to honor and empower wounded warriors by hosting events and educating warriors on programs offered.
Before David’s military career he was a Police Officer with the Greenville City Police Department. Having moved from Oxnard, California to Greenville, South Carolina in 1999. David has been married 23 years to his wife Christiana and together they have two son’s Tristen and Tylor. His favorite hobbies are spending time with family and friends, cross stitching, collecting knives, fishing, and hunting.
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.
Joey Lopes
Joey Lopes served in the U.S. Army from 2012 to 2024, holding various roles including Senior Maintenance Advisor, Company Operations, and Instructor. His first six years were with the 82nd Airborne Division as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic, during which he deployed to Iraq in 2016 in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, attached to a route clearance platoon. In 2018, Joey was selected to join the newly established 3rd Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB) at Fort Hood, Texas. While with the 3rd SFAB, he deployed to Afghanistan, where he advised and assisted the Afghan National Army on logistical and operational challenges. Joey left the service in 2024 as a Sergeant First Class and transitioned to a career in higher education. He currently works as a Human Resources Specialist for Coastal Carolina University’s Auxiliary Enterprises Division. Joey is married to his wife, Georgia, and they have three children—Ella, Charlee, and Joseph—and two dogs, Sophie and Roxy.
David Mack
Dave Mack, a proud native of Cleveland, Ohio, dedicated 31 years of exemplary service to the U.S. Air Force. Enlisting in May 1993 and receiving his commission in 2006 from the Air Force Officer Training School at Maxwell AFB, AL, he held the notable position of Director of Operations for the sole special tactics squadron in the INDOPACIFIC and commanded at both the squadron and deputy command levels. Dave deployed in support of Operations SOUTHERN WATCH, ENDURING FREEDOM-Afghanistan, IRAQI FREEDOM, INHERENT RESOLVE, RESOLUTE SUPPORT, and FREEDOM SENTINEL while also obtaining his Master Static Line and Military Freefall parachutist qualifications and was awarded Republic of South Korean and Colombian parachutist wings. Married to his wife Donna for 23 years, they now celebrate a legacy of family service through their son, who is now serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. Dave is now working with Johnson Controls as a Senior Program Manager in Learning and Development, where he is able to continue to apply his extensive experience and passion for developing and growing others.
Chris Marsh
Chris Marsh retired from the Marine Corps in September of
2020 after 20+ years of service. Before receiving his
commission from the Citadel as part of the Marine Enlisted
Commissioning Education Program, he attained the rank of
SSgt. After receiving his commission, he served in a
multitude of billets, deployed to combat in both Afghanistan
and Iraq, and deployed to 22 other countries across 3
combatant commands. He was promoted to his final rank of
Major in 2018 while deployed to Kuwait, and finished his
career at 2d Marine Division as the Current Operations
Officer. He has been married 24 years to his wife Kimberlee,
and together they have 4 children, ages 10-21. After
retirement he was hired by Michelin, where he now works as
a Business Unit Leader and Supply Chain Planner at
Michelin’s US1 plant in Greenville, SC.
Thomas Martin
In 2007, MSG Martin deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, where he contributed to mission success during a pivotal period in the region. Following his return in 2008, he transitioned to recruiting and retention, serving in this capacity until 2011. His efforts in this role were instrumental in strengthening the force through effective recruitment strategies and mentorship.
In 2012, MSG Martin deployed again, this time to Kosovo, where he served until 2013. During this deployment, he played a critical role in fostering stability and security as part of a multinational peacekeeping operation.
Since 2013, MSG Martin has returned to recruiting, where he continues to excel. His exceptional ability to inspire and guide others has had a lasting impact on the Army National Guard’s readiness and growth.
MSG Martin’s contributions have earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious Meritorious Service Medal, six Army Commendation Medals and two Army Achievement Medals. These accolades are a testament to his professionalism, leadership, and enduring commitment to service.
MSG Thomas Martin’s career reflects the values of duty, honor, and selfless service, making him a respected leader and mentor within the Army National Guard.
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.
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 15 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.
Steve Pelley
Steve is a retired US Army Colonel with more than 30 years of service. Originally from St Cloud, Minnesota, he enlisted in 1979 into the Army Signal Corps. After his first assignment in Germany, he was selected to attend Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning GA. Commissioned into the Ordnance Corps in 1982, Steve spent the next 27 years in various command and staff assignments that include the 82d Airborne Division, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), US Army Special Forces Command, and US Army Special Operations Command. He culminated his career as the Chief of Staff of the 1st Theater Sustainment Command at Camp Arfijan in Kuwait. Steve is a Master Parachutist with multiple overseas assignments in Germany and combat tours in Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, and Kuwait.
Steve is currently the Chief of Product Support for General Dynamics Mission Systems and now lives in a cabin in the mountains of western North Carolina.
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.
Jake Pinder
Jake is a Marine Corps veteran who served as an Mortarman in 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines (2/2) WPNS Company . During his time in the USMC, he participated in Operation Trident Juncture and completed two UDP deployments to Okinawa, Japan. As a squad leader, he developed strong leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills. After his military service, he transitioned into the business world, gaining experience in real estate, facilities management, and construction as a project engineer. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the College of Charleston, maintaining a 3.8 GPA. Jake is an active member of the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity, where he has held leadership positions and was recognized as Brother of the Month. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, weightlifting, and spending time with friends. With a passion for marketing, real estate, and leadership roles, Jake is eager to apply his experience and skills in the business world as he prepares for graduation in 2025.
Josh Powers
LTC (R) Josh Powers retired from the Army in December 2023 and lives in Greenville, SC with his wife of 21 years (Meg) and their two kids (Nate 13, and Libby 9). He and his family enjoy being active outdoors, nature, traveling, and sports. He currently works as an independent project management consultant for Cisco Systems.
His military experience and highlights include serving 21 years as an Aviation officer and UH-60 helicopter pilot. He served as an Air Assault Battalion commander, Professor of Military Science at the University of Central Arkansas, Chief of Operations and Plans Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, and multiple deployments in support of the Global War on Terror as a commander/pilot.
Josh’s education includes a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the Naval Post Graduate School and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Systems Engineering from the United States Military Academy.
His military awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and Air Medal
Jason Rosa
Jason was born and raised in The Bronx, NY and in Passaic County, NJ. During his Junior year of high school he went to the recruiters' office and said "where do I sign to join", and was all set up to join the Marine Corps right after graduation of his senior year. Served as an infantryman guarding strategic weapons and deployed with Third Battalion Fourth Marines (3/4) in 2016 to Australia for MRF-D (Marine Rotational Force Darwin) as a collaboration effort with Australian forces. After leaving the military Jason graduated from Berkeley College Magna Cum Laude and was on the Dean's list. After college he served as a Forest Firefighter for the U.S. Forest Service in San Bernardino National Forest in 2020 during one of the most intense fire seasons in Southern California, with over 200 fires fought in 6 months. Currently he transitioned from being an EMT to a fully licensed Airframe and Powerplant Technician while also investing in real estate in Northern NJ.
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.
Ken Seay
Ken Seay is a proud veteran who served in the USAF from 1970 to 1974. He spent 15 months in multiple locations in Southeast Asia. My father and older brother were both veterans and I was glad to support our country. Ken is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and a MBA from Troy University. He retired from Michelin after 38 years primarily involved in leadership development. He taught Leadership and Ethics in the Clemson MBA program and Leadership Strategies in the EISEG MBA program in Paris. He co-founded the ReedyReels Film Festival in Greenville, SC now in its tenth year. We feature independent film and have showcased many patriotic films. He is married to Janie and has two adult children and one grandson. Ken lives in Greer, SC and has a farm between Greenville and the NC mountains.
Chris Smith
Christopher (Chris) Smith is a retired Navy Information Systems Technician Chief Petty Officer, serving from June 2003 to October 2023. During his 20 years of service, he deployed 7 times.
His deployments include ballistic missile defense, freedom of navigation, anti-terrorism operations, counter-narcotics operations, and anti-piracy missions, taking him to the Persian
Gulf, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Baltic, and North Sea. His last duty station was the USS The Sullivans, DDG 68. After completing a 7 month deployment, within 55 days of returning home the USS The Sullivans surge deployed to the Baltic Sea in response to the war in Ukraine. USS The Sullivans was the first naval unit to respond to this conflict. While in service, Christopher completed an Associates Degree at University of Maryland Global Campus. He is the recipient of two Navy Commendation Medals, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, six Navy Achievement Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal. During his service he dedicated over 5 years coaching youth baseball and was awarded the Military Outstanding Volunteer ServiceMedal. He has been happily married to his wife Emily for nearly 18 years. Emily, a veteran herself, is the Director of the Military and Veteran Engagement office at Clemson University.
They have three sons: Trenton, Brayden, and Maxwell. Their oldest son is currently serving in the Navy as a linguist. Christopher now works as a Network Administrator at the South Carolina Governor’s School of the Arts and Humanities.
James Emerson Smith, Jr.
James is a Columbia, S.C. native, married to Kirkland T. Smith of Mt. Pleasant, SC. They have four children, a daughter Evie Emerson Smith, age 30, son Thomas Bridges Smith, age 28, son Paul Bradford Smith, age 22, and a daughter Shannon Elizabeth Smith, age 21. James is an attorney with 29 years in private practice. He began his military service in 1998 as a member of the Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG). After 911 and serving for eight (8) years as a JAG officer in South Carolina Army National Guard, James resigned then re-enlisted to pursue a commission as an Infantry Officer. James served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom Afghanistan with the 218th Infantry Brigade as Team Chief for PMT Viper where he was awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, The Bronze Star and The Purple Heart. James is currently a Lieutenant Colonel and Commander of 4th Battalion 218th Regiment. James also serves as a Board Member in support of several Veteran Organizations to include the Patriots Point Development Authority, National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, The Big Red Barn Retreat – Warrior PATHH and the USS Laffey Association. James and his family attend the Downtown Church in Columbia, SC.
Will Smythe
Will is a serial hobbyist who loves spending time outdoors especially if it includes his family and friends. He is a work-in-progress as a Christian so please know he is trying even if it does not look like it on the outside. He enlisted in the Army while attending college at The Citadel. Following graduation he commissioned as an officer and headed to his first duty station at Ft. Knox. During his 11 years in the Army he had many adventures but his favorite was Iraq. Post-military he spent 16 years as a medical device rep and is now a partner at Truitt Construction company headquartered in Upstate, SC.
Ross Snead
Ross is originally from the small town of Danville, KY. He enlisted in the Navy in 2007 where he served as an Electrician’s Mate (Nuclear) on the fast attack submarine USS Springfield (2010 -2014) and taught electrical theory at the Naval Nuclear Power School (2014 -2017). Ross served on 2 deployments while on the USS Springfield, both to the middle east. After the Navy, Ross pursued his degree in Electrical Engineering. He studied at Clemson University, where he met his wife, Peyton Bade-Snead. He graduated in 2022 and currently works as an Electrical Engineer at Itron in the Upstate of South Carolina.
Ross enjoys spending time outside. An avid hunter, he especially enjoys small game hunting. Ross has a passion for introducing others to the sport; he successfully started a hunting group of Clemson Student Veterans, many of whom still actively hunt on a regular basis. When not hunting, Ross enjoys hiking and boating during the warmer months.
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.
Rob Thompson
LTC Robert Thompson, a native of Fredericksburg Virginia, commenced his military career in 2003 by enlisting as an 11B in the Virginia Army National Guard. In 2007, he graduated from the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and subsequently commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army Infantry. LTC Thompson’s first assignment was with the 10th Mountain Division (10MTN), in Ft. Drum, NY, before graduating the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC) in the fall of 2012. Upon graduation, he was assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group (3SFG), where he served as a Detachment Commander, Company Commander, and Battalion’s Operation Officer. LTC Thompson has also served in both the 1st Special Forces Command (1SFC) and the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School (USAJFKSWCS) where he is currently serving as the Commander of the Headquarters and Headquarters Company. LTC Thompson has multiple awards and decorations, combat and operational deployments to the CENTCOM and the AFRICOM AORs, and holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. He is married to the former Ms. Anne Vaughan, of Richmond Virginia, and they have three children - Virginia (9), Ainsley (7), and Tripp (4) - as well as a Labrador Retriever- “Bandit.”
Phillip Turner
Philip was born and raised in Charlotte, NC before moving to South Carolina. In 2021, he enlisted in the South Carolina Army National Guard where he currently serves as a 15Y (Apache avionics, electrical, and armament technician). Philip is an avid racer and loves to work on and race cars as a member of the CCR SCCA whenever he finds the time to do so. Otherwise, he enjoys reading with his favorite book being "The Count of Monte Cristo", or spending time with friends. Philip is the 2024 South Carolina Army National Guard Soldier of the Year and is attending Greenville Technical College for an airframe and powerplant certification to repair and maintain civilian aircraft. His Father and Mother live in Charlotte and Concord, NC respectively. His sister lives in Simpsonville, SC. He also owns a cat which he loves dearly.
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.
Ricky Zambrano
Ricky Zambrano was born and raised in North Bergen NJ, was inspired to join the military after 9/11, during high school met with a Marine Corps recruiter and enlisted after graduating. Served as an infantryman with third battalion second marines (3/2) deployed in 2011 to Musa Qala Afghanistan. After leaving the military graduated from Berkeley College. Posed as one of the models for the National WW1 monument thats in Pershing Park in Washington DC. Currently a personal trainer/group fitness instructor. Actively competing in Hyrox and CrossFit competitions. Goal is to inspire other veterans to be the best version of themselves and pursue 1% better everyday!