Contents

Pg 1 Welcome Letter Pg 2 About Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend To Remember Pg 3 Sponsors Pg 4 Adopt a Warrior Prayers Pg 5-6 Maps

Main Public Events Pg 7 Lonestar Country Music Concert Pg 7 5k/ Ranger Ruck / Gold Star Bike Ride Pg 8 25 Mile Bicycle Ride Pg 8 Ohio Challenge Balloon Festival

Our 2016 Warriors & Gold Star Families New Warriors- Pg 9-14 Pg 9 Air Force TSgt Mark Badger (Ret) Pg 9 Air Force SrA Josh Brooks (Ret) Pg 9 Marine LCPL Richard Caseltine (Ret) Pg 9 Army CPL Joseph Childress (Ret) Pg 10 Marine/Army SPC James Davis (Ret) Pg 10 Marine Sgt Daniel Erlandson (Ret) Pg 10 Army SPC Halsey Hinson (Ret) Pg 11 Marine CPL Josh Hoffman (Ret) Pg 11 Air Force SMSgt Paul Horton (Ret) Pg 11 Marine CPL Todd Love (Ret) Pg 12 Marine LCPL John MacNaughton (Ret) Pg 12 Air Force MSG Adam McLeod (Ret) Pg 13 Marine LCPL Ryan Meadows Pg 13 Air Force SSgt Zac Ruttman (Ret) Pg 13 Marine LCPL Nick Siewert (Ret) Pg 13 Marine Sgt Steve Thompson (Ret) Pg 14 Air Force SMSgt Kevin Wallace Pg 14 Army SSG Stephen Valyou (Ret) Ambassador Warriors - Pg 15-17 Pg 15 Marine Gunnery SGT Sam Deeds (Ret) Pg 15 Marine COL John Bates (Ret) Pg 16 Army SPC Ken Doyle (Ret) Pg 16 Army SSG Shilo Harris (Ret) Pg 16 Air Force MAJ Timothy O’Sullivan (Ret) Pg 17 Army SGT Matthew Pennington (Ret) Pg 17 Air Force MAJ Jason Regester (Ret) Pg 17 Marine CPL Mike Strahle (Ret) New Gold Star Families- Pg 18-20 Pg 18 Fallen Warrior – Army SFC Ofren “AC” Arrechaga Pg 18 Fallen Warrior – Army SPC Jacob Dohrenwend Pg 18 Fallen Warrior – Marine CPL Adam Jones Pg 19 Fallen Warrior – Army SPC Donald “Scott” Morrison Pg 19 Fallen Warrior – Marine Sgt Jeremy Murray Pg 19 Fallen Warrior – Army SGT James Robinson Pg 20 Fallen Warrior – Army 1LT Justin Smith Pg 20 Fallen Warrior – Marine LCPL William David Spencer Pg 20 Fallen Warrior – Marine SSgt Mark Anthony Wojciechowski Ambassador Gold Star Families- Pg 21 Pg 21 Fallen Warrior – Marine LCP Taylor Prazynski Pg 21 Fallen Warrior – Marine CPL Christopher “Tyler” Warndorf Pg 21 Fallen Warrior – Marine CPL Paul W. Zanowick II Pg 22-25 Full Event Schedule Pg 26-27 WWTR Planning Team

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Welcome to the 3rd Annual Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to Remember (WWTR) 2016

People often say the third time is a charm, in this case, every time has been awesome, and each time has only gotten better. WWTR is purposely designed to involve hundreds of people in the planning and execution. The list includes the honored Purple Hearts and Fallen Hero Families, sponsors, planning team, volunteers and 50,000 people via the Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival. Through this approach we create an incredibly fun, enriching and healing experience for the honored guests and really everyone that touches the event.

This year we are pleased to host forty Combat Injured/Purple Heart Recipients and Fallen Hero/Gold Star Families, this includes new warriors and returning ambassadors. Prior to this event warriors are contacted via many sources to apply for the WWTR. After three years, word is getting out about WWTR and we are receiving more requests than we can accommodate. The planning team has decided that the experience is more about quality over quantity and has committed to keep the warrior list to forty. However, we do fold in many more warriors to other elements of the event. This includes providing 500 VIP tickets for troops, Purple Hearts and Gold Stars to the Lone Star Military Tribute Concert.

The back drop for the fun, enriching and healing starts with a motorcycle escort from the airport on Thursday to check in at a brand new AC Marriot Hotel, then riding in Hot Rods to race Karts at Full Throttle. Friday kicks off with a full day of shooting guns at Miamisburg Sportsmen’s Club and ending with a Jeep Ride/parade with Muddy Buddies to a VIP Lonestar Military Tribute Concert at JD Legends. Saturday starts with a Warrior 5k Walk/Run/Ranger Ruck and Bike Ride at Smith Park, followed by a full day at Start Skydiving riding in Hot Air Balloons, a UH1H Huey, WW II Bomber and Fighter, Scenic Helo and Bi-Plane rides and of course tandem skydiving. All throughout, our Warriors and Gold Star families will enjoy the Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival and a constant menu of awesome food.

Our small, community grass roots non-profit is now a legal 501c3. The name is “Blue Skies for Good Guys and Gals Warrior Foundation” or “BS3G.” Yes, a mouthful indeed, but there it is. The entire project is grass roots and volunteer, all proceeds benefit the WWTR mission. WWTR is the core giving back project for Team Fastrax™ Professional Skydiving Team, however it’s important to understand there are well over 100 people on the core planning team, including many supporting non-profits, community groups and previous honored warriors who have experienced the weekend first hand and want to give back. This event could be done with many less people, but the significant positive impact wouldn’t be the same.

If you are an honored Purple Heart or Gold Star Family, enjoy the weekend, you earned it. Know that hundreds of people have worked very hard for you to have an awesome experience and are praying for you to have a healing weekend, including the many churches in our Adopt-a-Warrior/Prayer Warrior program. If you are a sponsor, know that your contribution is making a difference. These warriors will leave with a life time of good memories and new friendships. If you are a volunteer and or supporting group, thank you, thank you, thank you. The full awesomeness of this event could not be accomplished without each and every one of you.

Blue Skies!

David & John Hart and the entire Core Planning Team!!!

WelCome Letter

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About the team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to remember

Held in conjunction with The Ohio Challenge (OC) Hot Air Balloon Festival, and organized by Team Fastrax™ Professional Skydiving Team and a large planning team, this event takes place July 7-10, 2016, at Smith Park/Hook Field-Middletown Regional Airport (Middletown, Ohio). The Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to Remember (WWTR) is an exciting combination of activities meant to enrich the lives of our active-duty and veteran men and women injured in combat deployments abroad, with priority given to Purple Heart recipients. Forty Combat Injured Warriors and twelve Gold Star Families will participate throughout the weekend. They will enjoy a combination of high energy and life enriching activities that are sure to put a smile on their faces. Many elements of the weekend are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. For more info, visit our website: www.WarriorWTR.com

About Team Fastrax™ Parachute Demonstration Team Since the inception of Team Fastrax™ Parachute Demonstration Team in 2002, the team has performed thousands of exhibition skydives at every entertainment venue imaginable. Team Fastrax™ has performed in more than 25 nations. The team is approved to jump into highly-restricted airspace and is the only team to have performed over Ground Zero on 9/11 in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., Independence Hall in Philadelphia, PA and over the Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. They jump at balloon festivals, air shows, NASCAR, Indy Race League, Formula One, symphony performances, golf courses, amusement parks, tennis courts, the Air Races and their favorite, veteran support events. In addition, Team Fastrax™ has a Creed for all members to perform by. In it they state that honoring our nation’s military men and women is their highest purpose. Web: www.teamfastrax.org

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Red Warrior Sponsor - $16,000 plus Event Sponsored WarriorSELECTiON.COM® VIP Dinner & Ohio Challenge (PH) Todd LoveSELECTiON.COM® VIP Dinner & Ohio Challenge (PH) Joseph ChildressSELECTiON.COM® VIP Dinner & Ohio Challenge (GS) Seana ArrechagaSELECTiON.COM® VIP Dinner & Ohio Challenge (GS) Teresa DillingerSELECTiON.COM® VIP Dinner & Ohio Challenge (GS) James DohrenwendWhite Warrior Sponsor - $8,000 plus Event Sponsored WarriorHalo for Freedom GS 25 mile Bike Ride (PH) Mark BadgerHalo for Freedom GS 25 mile Bike Ride (GS) Carolyn HibberdHalo for Freedom GS 25 mile Bike Ride (GS) Kelly Jones-CollinsSegue Technologies/Caring Village Command Post (PH) Joshua BrooksSegue Technologies/Caring Village Command Post (GS) Don MorrisonMr. & Mrs Tony Ryan/TD Datalink Night Bow Fishing (PHA) Shilo HarrisMr. & Mrs Tony Ryan/TD Datalink Night Bow Fishing PHA) Sam DeedsBlue Warrior Sponsor - $4,000 plus Event Sponsored WarriorCombat Veterans to Careers Warrior chill out area (PH) Richard CaseltineEvanhoe & Associates, Inc. WW II Bomber Warrior Rides (PH) Daniel ErlandsonHalcyon IT WW II Fighter Warrior Rides (PH) Halsey HinsonHart Jr, John and Suzanne Warrior Welcome Baskets (PH) Adam McLeodMuddy Buddys Jeep Convoy (PH) Paul HortonOpie Willis Fund Raiser Warrior Bonfire (PH) John MacNaughtonQuantrum Warrior Concert (PH) Joshua HoffmanTekSouth Corporation Warrior Lodging Support (PH) Ryan MeadowsBISI Solutions Observation Warrior Helo Rides (PH) Zachary RuttmanTommy Tuberville Foundation Warrior Shuttle Van Support (PH) Nick SiewertTotal Quality Logistics Warrior 5k Run, Walk & Ruck (PH) Steve ThompsonTri-Cor Industries, Inc. Bi-Plane Warrior Rides (PH) Kevin WallaceUSO of Central & Southern Ohio Warrior Concert (PH) Stephen ValyouU.S. Veterans Motorcycle Club- USVMCOH.com Motorcycle Escort (PH) James DavisSupporting Sponsor - $2,000 plus Event Sponsored WarriorBrian Callahan (GS) Murray FamilyBrixey & Meyer Community Outreach Foundation (GS) Murray FamilyEagles, Middletown #528 (GS) Shellie Smith & FamilyFaurecia (GS) Shellie Smith & FamilyLang Financial (GS) James Robinson & FamilyMr. and Mrs. Andy Deidling (GS) James Robinson & FamilyMs. Gale Fogg (GS) James Robinson & FamilyNorthrop Grumman Xetron & Employees (GSA) Prazynski FamilyRecruitMilitary.Com (GSA) Prazynski FamilySunCoke of Middletown (GSA) Herwick & FamilyTri-County Assembly (GSA) Herwick & FamilyWalmart (GSA) Zanowick and FamilyIn-Kind Sponsor Support Event Sponsored WarriorCort Furniture Warrior Furniture for Chill Out (PHA) Matthew PenningtonFricker’s of Middletown Welcome Party Food (PHA) Ken DoyleFull Throttle Indoor Karting Welcome Party Racing (GSA) Warndorf & FamilyPatriot Project Warrior Care Station (PHA) Shilo HarrisJD Legends Entertainment Complex Warrior Concert (PHA) John BatesMiamisburg Sportsmen's Club Warrior Multi-Gun Shoot (PHA) Tim O’SullivanMontgomery Inn Warrior VIP Saturday Dinner (GS) Lance CPL William D. SpencerSim-Trainer Warrior Gun Raffle (PHA) Jason RegesterValor Vacations Warrior Travel (PHA) Mike StrahleVFW Post 3809 Warrior Food Planning (PHA) Sam Deeds(PHA) Mike Strahle Valor Vacations Warrior Travel(PHA) Sam Deeds VFW Post 3809 Warrior Food Planning(PHA) Sam Deeds Tony Ryan Night Bow Fishing

Primary Sponsors

Our sincere thanks to our sponsors and supporters. Without your generous support of time, talent and treasure, this weekend would not be possible. A special thanks to the hundreds of others who have made financial contributions below $2,000.

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AdoPt a Warrior PrayerS

The Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to Remember Honors 40 individuals and provides a weekend of enriching and healing experiences. Each Congregation adopts a single Purple Heart Warrior or Gold Star Family. They offer prayers for the Warrior and Gold Star Families so that they have an enriching and healing Warrior Weekend to Remember. Each congregation collects letters of encouragement to provide to the Warrior and Gold Star family during the Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to Remember and sends a care packages directly to the warrior’s home after the Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to Remember.

Organization Warrior

Fairfield West Baptist church Adam McLeod

First Baptist Bellbrook "The Brook" Todd Love

First Baptist Brookville Richard Caseltine

First Baptist Church  Union Steve Thompson

Good Shepherd Paul Horton & Jacob Dohrenwend

Miamisburg Christian Church Daniel Erlandson

Mt. Enon Baptist Church Ryan Meadows

Mt. Enon Baptist Church Joseph Childress

North Dayton Baptist Church Stephen Valyou

North Valley Baptist Church Kevin Wallace

Operation: Thank You James Davis

Operation: Thank You Halsey Hinson

Royalmont Academy Joshua Hoffman

Sharpshair Family Justin Smith

St. John the Baptist Josh Brooks

St. Margaret of York John MacNaughton

St. Michaels Mark Badger

Threshold Church Nick Siewert

Tri-County Assembly in Fairfield Zac Ruttman & James Robinson

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event map

Dayton International Airport3600 Terminal Dr.Dayton, OH 45377

Warrior Welcome Kart Racing(Thursday Evening)

Full Throttle Indoor Karting11725 Commons Dr.

Cincinnati, OH 45246

MAIN EVENTCOMMAND POST

Aircraft Rides, START Skydiving, VIP Dinner

(Saturday All Day)(Night Bow Fishing Thurs-Sat)

Middletown Regional Airport Hook Field, 1707 Run Way

Middletown, OH 45042

Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival, Warrior 5/10k Run & Gold Star Tribute

Bicycle Ride(Saturday All Day)

Smith ParkMiddletown, OH 45042

Lonestar Military Tribute Concert(Friday Evening)

JD Legends Entertainment Complex 65 Millard Dr.

Franklin, OH 45005

Warrior Multi-Gun Shoot(All Day Friday)

Miamisburg Sportsmen’s Club6300 South Union Road

Miamisburg Township. OH 45342

National Museum of the United States Air Force

(Rain Out Option)1100 Spaatz St.

Dayton, OH 45431

Warrior/VIP LodgingAC Marriott at Liberty Center

7505 Gibson St.Liberty Township, OH 45069

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport

2939 Terminal DrHebron, KY 41048

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ohio ChaLlenge AreA map

Map courtesy of www.ohiochallenge.com

VIP Dinner (Saturday)Jet Hanger on Hook Field

VIP Parking Here.Command Post

Selection VIP Tent for Saturday Evening Fireworks

Start Skydiving Office Drop Zone Hangar First Aid, START Skydiving & Night Bow Fishing (Thu - Sat) Middletown Regional Airport

Hook Field, 1707 Run Way Middletown, OH 45042

Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival, Warrior 5/10k Run & Gold Star Tribute Bicycle Ride

(Fri, Sat, Sun) - Smith Park, Middletown, OH 45042

Primary Information Command Post Number - Active Only During the Warrior Weekend 513-601-3663

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Ranger Ruck Info: A Ranger ruck is a 5k but with a 40+ pound ruck. Each participant will provide their own Pack and the com-bined weight of the pack and contents must be at least 40 pounds. For every 10 pounds over 40 they will receive 2 minutes off their finish time. The person with the least amount of time wins.

All proceeds to benefit the Blue Skies for the Good Guys and Gals Warrior Foundation in support of The Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to Remember.

Warrior Weekend 5k Run/Walk & Ranger RuckSaturday, July 9, 2016- A fun, family friendly event. SMITH PARK provides a paved fitness course to admire the natural landscape with the course located entirely inside the park to ensure a marked, level terrain.

Check In: 7:30 amRace Start: 9:00 amAwards: 10: 30 amWhere: Smith Park • 500 Tytus Ave. • Middletown, Ohio 45044Format: Run • Walk • WheelchairCost: 5k & Ranger Ruck- $35 Adults • $25 for youths 17 & under

Lonestar Military Tribute ConcertFriday, July 8, 2016

Also featuring Mack McKenzie, Stephen Kelly Hunt & Comedian Steve Mac.

Free VIP Tickets for Purple Hearts, Gold Stars and Active, Guard and Reserve Military. Valid military ID verification will be requested at the door for individuals reserving the tickets for Active, Guard & Reserve Military.

Doors for concert open at 5:00 PMDinner will be served (buffet style) starting at 7:00 PMSteven Kelly Hunt and Comedian Steve Mac will kick of the night at 7:15 PMLonestar will begin at approximately 9:00 PMJD Legends is located at 65 Millard Drive, Franklin, OH 45005

Lonestar is known for merging their country roots with strong melodies and rich vocals. Lonestar, comprised of Richie McDonald (lead vocals), Michael Britt (lead guitar & backing vocals), Keech Rainwater (drums), and Dean Sams (keyboards & backing vocals), has amassed RIAA-certified sales in excess of ten million album units since their national launch in 1995, and achieved ten #1 country hits including “No News,” “Come Crying To Me,” and their crossover smash “Amazed” (which was also #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, the first record since 1983’s “Islands in the Stream”, to top both charts). The band’s awards include a 1999 ACM Single of The Year for “Amazed” (the song also won the Song of the Year award), and the 2001 CMA Vocal Group of the Year. With over a 100 dates world-wide per year, they are celebrating over 20 years together. Lonestar’s highly anticipated CD, Never Enders, features ten new original Lonestar songs that bring the band’s trademark sound into the contemporary arena.

LonestAr

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Gold Star Family 25 Mile Bicycle Ride TributeSaturday, July 9, 2016- The Gold Star Family Bike Ride Tribute honors and thanks Gold Star family members for the tremendous sacrifices made due to the loss of their loved ones.

All proceeds will benefit the Blue Skies for the Good Guys and Gals Warrior Foundation in support of The Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to Remember.

6am Check In: 7:10am Welcome, Race Directions and Thank You7:20 am Invocation and Warrior Pep Talk: 7:25 am National Anthem (Team Fastrax™ Jump)7:30 am Start Bike Ride

Warriors award medals at finish lineWhere: Smith Park • 500 Tytus Ave. • Middletown, Ohio 45044Cost: $30

Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon FestivalFull festival information and schedule updates can be found at www.OhioChallenge.com. The Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival is one of southwestern Ohio’s premier family-friendly summer events. It is centered around a sanctioned hot air balloon competition. The full festival atmosphere includes carnival rides, clowns, crafts, a car show, Indian Village, festival foods, live music, skydiving performances, mass balloon launches, balloon rides, balloon glows, laser light and pyrotechnic shows and more.

This festival is organized and executed in parallel with the Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to Remember.

FESTIVAL BEGINS - FRIDAY - JULY 8, 20164pm-10:30pm Park Opens – Full Festival Balloon launches, glows & more10:00pm Laser/pyro show

SATURDAY - JULY 9, 20167am-9am Tethered Balloon Rides8am-10:30am Pancake Breakfast4:00pm-10:00pm Park Re-Opens – Full Festival Car Show Corn Hole Tournament Balloon launches, glows & more Warrior & Gold Star Ceremony Evening ends with fireworks Presented by Start Skydiving

SUNDAY - JULY 10, 20167am-9am Tethered Balloon Rides Remote Balloon Launch Fiesta Balloons & Special Shapes No Festival Activity Sunday

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Air Force TSgt Mark Badger (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) TSgt Mark Badger is a prior USAF EOD Team Leader. His last duty station was Peterson AFB in Colorado Springs, CO. While deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan 2010-2011 Mark was involved in 2 IED detonations within a 3 day period of time while conducting dismounted operations with an Army unit. Both were approximately 35-40 lbs of HME and they took heavy casualties including his team member and team leader. Mark sustained multiple moderate TBI’s and has permanent brain damage and a list of other injuries. He did everything he could to get back to his pre-deployment self for 2 years before a med board was started. Mark was medically retired after 12 years in the Air Force on November 27, 2014. He loved his job as EOD and was going to stay in for the long haul, but had to change plans.

Mark still lives in Colorado Springs with his wife and two kids and has been devoting his time to them and continuing medical appointments. In regards to the Warrior Weekend, he said, “I love to do most anything to get the adrenaline pumping. This is one of the only events I have applied for because I love heights! I have yet to skydive, but have been wanting to my whole life! I love helicopters and have always been fascinated by them.”

new 2016 Warriors

Air Force SrA Josh Brooks (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) SrA Josh Brooks is 30 years old, married with kids. He joined the Air Force out of high school and went into Security Forces. Josh volunteered for a 365 ILO mission with the Army. That took him to Baghdad in November of 2006. He was injured in an EFP attack 5/14/07, and they also lost a warrior that day. Over twenty surgeries and extensive therapy have gotten Josh to where he is today. He retired from active duty November of 2008, and now works for the government with the Social Security Administration.

Marine LCPL Richard Caseltine (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Richard Caseltine is from Aurora, IN. He was raised by his mother and grandparents. He Graduated from South Dearborn High School in Aurora, IN in 2004, and left for basic training right after graduating. He was stationed at Camp Lejeune with 3rd BN 8th Marines. He deployed to Karma, Iraq in 2005 and Ramadi, Iraq in 2006. He was shot by a sniper in kevlar on April 6th, 2005, while providing overwatch for an Iraq army patrol. He saw a person laying an IED, and then engaged the person. After turning around he was shot in kevlar by a sniper. The bullet went into front of kevlar and then traveled over his head and went down into base of neck stopping about an 1/8 inch from spine. He was medically retired in 2009. He loves to be outdoors and enjoys life. He has two daughters Kayleigh and Kylie and a son named Bryer. He is engaged to Bridget Hudson.

Army CPL Joseph Childress (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) CPL Joseph Childress joined the military in 2007 and went to basic training in 2008. He was in field artillery attached to 10th mountain 3-6 fa. Joseph was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 and suffered mTBI and other health related injuries and problems. He has suffered from Severe PTSD and chronic pain and headaches since 2010. Joseph received the Purple Heart for injuries sustained in Afghanistan.

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Army SPC Halsey Hinson (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Halsey Hinson was born April 24, 1981 in Columbia, South Carolina. She joined active duty Army in January 2003 and completed her Basic and AIT in Fort Leonard Wood. She reported to her first duty station in May 2003 as a Military Police Officer and in November of 2004 received the highly revered award of becoming a mother. One year later, Halsey deployed to Baghdad, Iraq with 258 Mp Company, 519th Mp Battalion. On August 9, 2006 her convoy was struck by IED totally disabling the vehicle. She received minor shrapnel to the wrist and burns to the face and wrist which led to a Purple Heart. All other team members in the vehicle also received minor injuries. She returned to duty the following day. She returned home in October of 2006. In January of 2008 she returned home to South Carolina and joined the National Guard for 18 months.

Marine/Army SPC James Davis (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) (SPC Ret) James R. Davis began his military career in the Marine Corps 1994 at MCRD Parris Island and served at MCRD San Diego as a Military Police Officer. Later, he went to college, met his wife, changed plans, and joined the IL National Guard. He then joined his second active duty tour, this time in the Army with Alpha Battery 3-82nd Field Artillery, First Cavalry Division, 2nd Brigade Blackjack Combat Team in OEF Nov 2001 in Kuwait/Iraq. While preparing the ground for OIFin 2002, a British EOD team was clearing old Desert Storm Iraqi mines and forgot to check the area, the explosion almost knocked them out of the guard tower, but the exposure to Type G Nerve Agent (according to the chem alarm) is the cause of his seizures and other disabling neurological problems. James was medically discharged in 2004, and since has been given 100% Total and Permanent by the VA. He was almost permanently in a wheelchair this past July 2015, but thanks to the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes

and the Rocky Mtn. Hyperbaric Association, he is now able to walk with a cane and he has gotten his peripheral vision and balance and some cognitive skills back. After his medical discharge, James was blessed to serve as a GS-12 Security Specialist at HQDA ODCS G-2 at the Pentagon and later at NSWCDD Dahlgren for a total of 9 years before being medically retired from OPM. He now works from home and serves as the Assistant Field Representative for the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes and he is also a Call Representative in their Heroes Thanking Heroes program.

Marine Sgt Daniel Erlandson (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Daniel Erlandson was born November 16, 1983 in Everett Washington. He is married to Theresa Erlandson and they just celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary on January 7th. Daniel has three sisters, one is older and two are younger. He joined the United States Marine Corps April 21, 2008. Daniel says joining the Marine Corps was a lifelong dream, and becoming a Marine is still one of the proudest moments of his life. He served as a 0331 Machine Gunner and spent the majority of his career with 3rd Battalion 4th Marines (Darkside). He deployed with 3/4 three times to Afghanistan: 2009, 2011, and 2013. On his second deployment in 2011, he was deployed to Upper Gereshk Valley in northern Helmand Province. On May 31st, while operating as lead vehicle turret gunner, his truck hit an IED. Everyone was OK in the explosion, but he did suffer a mild TBI. Three days later, on June 3rd, while on a dismounted foot patrol, his squad was ambushed and came under fire. Eventually the enemy broke contact and they headed back to their patrol base. Daniel recounted, “We were then commanded to go back out to the same area even though we knew it was a bad idea and tried to deny it. Upon leaving again, we got close to the same area we came under fire the first time, and again took fire. This time we were taking fire from multiple enemy positions. As I was trying to direct my machine gun squad, an enemy round ricocheted off the wall where I was trying to take cover and struck the back of my shoulder. Quick Reaction Force came to pick me up via vehicle to get me to a safe area to be picked up in a helicopter. One of the Marines in the truck that picked me up was Corporal Zanowick, an incredible Marine. After dropping me off, Corporal Zanowick was then forced to go back out and ended up being shot and killed no more than an hour after I was shot. I was taken out of the fight, and had to leave my guys for the rest of the deployment, and then to top it off I found out we lost Zanowick. That took a very strong toll on me then, and still affects me to this day.”

Daniel did end up deploying one more time after that, but that deployment definitely has impacted him and contributed to the majority of his PTSD. He said, “I will never regret what I did to serve my country, but as much as I’m proud of what I did, it unfortunately took a toll that the loved ones around me have to live with. I am grateful of the opportunity to apply for this, and the fact that CPL Zanowick’s parents want to give me the honor of being my sponsor.” *Friend of Fallen Warrior Marine CPL Paul W. Zanowick II. See page 21.

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Marine CPL Josh Hoffman (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) CPL Joshua Hoffman was injured on the battlefield of Afghanistan, August 6th, 2011. His primary job and responsibility as a U.S. Marine in Afghanistan was to find any and all bombs that would prevent infantry and follow-on forces from completing their mission. He was on what was supposed to be his last mission when he found three bombs, and while determining the size of the third bomb his foot inadvertently set it off. The blast blew his left leg off, broke his right knee and femur in half, gave him a grade 4 concussion, severe short term memory loss, and extensive damage to the rest of his body. He was then medically Retired from the Marine Corps after he rehabilitated in 2013 and has since had his first child and bought his first home with his wife and son. Joshua said, “Every day is a constant struggle, but with the support of my family, friends, and neighbors I always just bear down and carry on through the day. Life is what you make it and I am trying to make my second chance count. - SemperFi”

Marine CPL Todd Love (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) CPL Todd Love was born in Atlanta, GA and joined the Marine Corps immediately out of high school in 2008. He graduated the Basic Reconnaissance Course in 2009 and was assigned to 1st Recon Battalion. He was deployed to Helmand, Afghanistan in May of 2010. Five months into his deployment, on October 25th, 2010, while on patrol in Sangin, Helmand Province, Todd stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED) and was transferred to Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He lost both legs to the hip and his left hand. Todd enjoys participating in extreme sports and has not let his injury stop him. Todd can be found whitewater kayaking, skiing, skydiving, shooting guns, or competing in Spartan Races.

Air Force SMSgt Paul Horton (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) SMSgt Paul Horton was born October 20, 1972 in Conroe, Texas. He graduated high school from W. B. Ray HS in Corpus Christi and then attended Texas A&M from 1991-1993. He joined the military right before his 22nd birthday.

After sustaining serious injuries when an IED exploded under his feet in 2010, Horton was stationed at Peterson AFB, CO for his final assignment. He led a flight of 15 as MSgt and then became the 21st EOD Program Manager as a SMSgt. He directly controlled the EOD assets and provided force protection to 5 military installations, the local community, and to the President of the United States. He was the 21st CES SNCO of the Year in 2012 as well as the 21st Space Wing’s SNCO of the Quarter. His valor was highlighted in the 2011 Chief of Staff ’s Portraits in Courage. His proven leadership and dedication to duty was the

cornerstone of the AF’s 2012 Recruiting Campaign, “Amazing Airmen.” His teams completed more than 1,500 combat missions, 65 Secret Service Missions, 18 emergency responses, and destroyed over 68,000 pounds of enemy explosives. Three of his Airmen and NCOs were injured in combat while heroically saving the lives of others. One of his Airmen paid the ultimate price.

He capped his career off by competing on Team USA in the inaugural Invictus Games in London. He also relentlessly pursued improved care for Wounded Airmen, eventually resulting in the Air Force Surgeon General implementing his EOD Health Care Initiative Air Force-wide for all Battlefield Airmen. He earned multiple Bronze Star Medals, Purple Heart Medals, Army Commendation for Valor, and Navy Achievement Medals. Additionally, he was named one of 20 National Heroes by the President in 2009 for his actions on the battlefield.

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Air Force MSG Adam McLeod (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Adam McLeod served nearly 18 years in the US Air Force. His first 12 ½ years he served as a Security Police/Forces and a K-9 handler. He was honorably retired in 2010 as an E-7, Air Force Master Sergeant. He has deployed 10 times, two of which were combat deployments while in uniform. His final deployment was to Afghanistan as an advisor to Regional Command West (RC-W) forces on improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Adam was assigned to Camp Bastion/Leatherneck supporting US Marine Corps tactical units as well as other units assigned to and/or transient through the base. His awards include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service, Purple Heart and Air Force Commendation medals.

Adam has been married to his wife Jennifer for 20 years. She is also former Air Force, trained as a medic. She spent over seven years in the service until they decided she should get out to raise their children. She was honorably separated as an E-5, Air Force Staff Sergeant. They have four boys ages 18, 16, 14 and 12.

In 2007, Adam selected a voluntary deployment to Camp Fallujah, Fallujah, Iraq as an analyst assigned to a US Marine Corps explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) detachment. He was tasked to conduct tactical exploitation and forensic analysis of IEDs. He used his analysis to identify IED cells in the area, suggest countermeasures to tactical units and provide information to direct action units. It was during this deployment where an already aggravated back condition deteriorated into his second back surgery in 2008. He lost a significant amount of hearing, no doubt due to IED blasts. Following the deployment, he was diagnosed with traumatic brain injury as well as post-traumatic stress disorder and ultimately medically boarded out of the Air Force three days prior to his 18th year military anniversary.

Since his retirement, he has continued to serve US Forces in a variety of positions, most recently as a sub-contractor assigned to an intelligence unit supporting operations globally.

new 2016 Warriors

Marine LCPL John MacNaughton (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) LCPL John MacNaughton enlisted in the summer of 2003 a week after he turned 18. He spent a year in the delayed entry program and upon graduating high school in June he left for boot camp. John graduated on September 17th, 2004. After graduating from infantry training school he checked into 3rd Battalion 8th Marine Regiment on December 18th. He was deployed to Iraq less than a month later. John was deployed again, this time to Ramadi, Iraq in March of 2006. His last deployment was with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit in July of 2007. He left active service after four years in June of 2008.

On the night on March 20, 2005, at about 2030 hours, John’s squad led by SGT Deeds was conducting a routine vehicle check point on Kandari Market Road just outside of Abu Grahib prison in Iraq. They had

set up a perimeter and he was posted on the machine gun mounted in the back of a High Back Humvee. John was scanning roof tops and windows with a night vision sight when suddenly there was a massive explosion behind him and to his right. He was knocked unconscious and thrown to the floor.

John said, “I remembered hearing and feeling the debris falling all around me as I regained consciousness. I jumped up and looked where SGT Deeds had stood next to me but I did not see him there. I caught a glimpse of Doc Harerra dragging SGT Deeds around the front of the Humvee. At first I couldn’t feel anything. My adrenaline was pumping and I was on high alert. Confused and disoriented, I checked my sector of fire to see if there were any targets. Seeing nothing, I started to help with the med-evac. I grabbed the stretcher and tried to open it but couldn’t. Then I felt something cold run down my back and start to drip. I wasn’t sure if it was blood but guessed I had been hit and told Lance Corporal Dean to notify our command. I was in shock and didn’t know what else to do. I felt helpless and confused. “

After they loaded SGT Deeds into the back of the Humvee they rushed back into the prison, to the hospital. Once SGT Deeds had received attention he asked someone to look at his back and they confirmed that he had been hit and was bleeding. Inside the hospital, X-Rays confirmed John had shrapnel in his upper back and shoulders, but it was too deep to take out. Eleven years later one piece has come out and another is still in his right shoulder.

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Air Force SSgt Zac Ruttman (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Zac Ruttman is a 37 year old resident of Owasso, OK and a full-time student. He is married, has a seven year old boy and loves both of them very much. He was part of the Tactical Forces Group (Team 2) in Iraq 2004-2005. He was in a Humvee turret as the heavy gunner when their vehicle took a direct hit from two IEDs followed by small arms fire. He sustained shrapnel to his back, neck, and head and ruptured his right ear. Zac said, “Most of the injuries were superficial due to the outstanding armor. After several surgeries and inpatient rehab, I am is about 80% recovered with minor limitations. I feel truly blessed and very well taken care of.”

He was awarded (in his seven year career) over two dozen medals and ribbons including the Combat Action Medal, the Commendation Medal with Valor, the Purple Heart, and Oklahoma’s ‘Outstanding Soldier of the Year’ in 2006.

Marine LCPL Ryan Meadows(Purple Heart Recipient) LCPL Ryan Meadows enlisted April 12, 2004. Following recruit training and School of Infantry, he was sent to 3rd Battalion 8th Marines Kilo Co. In January of 2005 he was sent to Fallujah, Iraq and spent the next 7 months in combat operations. July 17th, 2005 he sustained a traumatic brain injury from an improved explosive device.

Following Fallujah, Ryan deployed to Ramadi, Iraq in 2006. They operated in Ramadi from March 2006 to September 2006. Ramadi at the time was the most hostile area in Iraq and they stayed in sustained combat daily.

Following Ramadi, he deployed with 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). He did training operations in Kuwait, Djibouti, Africa, and anti-piracy ops off the coast of Somalia.

In April 2008 Ryan was honorably discharged from the Marines.

new 2016 Warriors

Marine LCPL Nick Siewert (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) LCPL Nick Siewert graduated high school in 2004 and served in the Marine Corps from 2004-2008. He was deployed to Iraq as a Machine Gunner two times to Fallujah (2005) and Ramadi (2006) in the 22nd MEU 2007. Since its activation in 1982, the 22nd MEU has been awarded two Joint Meritorious Unit Awards, four Navy Unit Commendations, five Meritorious Unit Commendations, the Marine Corps Expeditionary Streamer with two stars, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Streamer with two stars, the Armed Forces Service Streamer with three stars, the Southwest Asia Service streamer with two stars, the Afghanistan Campaign streamer, the Iraq Campaign Streamer, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary streamer and the Global War on Terrorism Service Streamer. Nick received his Purple Heart in 2005 in Fallujah. He was assigned to the 3/8 and was attached to the Lima Company as a 0331. *Friend of Fallen Warrior Marine LCP Taylor Prazynski. See page 21.

Marine Sgt Steve Thompson (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Sgt Steve Thompson served with John Prazynski’s son, LCP Taylor Prazynski in 3rd Battalion 8th Marine Regiment, an infantry battalion out of the 2nd Marine Division in Camp Lejeune, NC. He was a Sgt Squad Leader with 3 deployments to Fallujah, Iraq, Ramadi, Iraq and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit.*Friend of Fallen Warrior Marine LCP Taylor Prazynski. See page 21.

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Army SSG Stephen Valyou (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Stephen Valyou is a Retired US Army SSG, EOD team leader, serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. He conducted and mitigated over 100 IED threats. He was shot and paralyzed by a sniper March 2007 in Diyala Province, Iraq.

Stephen is a single father of two great children. His son is 11 and his daughter is 3. He is a mono skier in the winter, hand-cyclist in the MCM, PADI Certified Scuba diver, and is currently seeking to achieve his AAF license. He uses his disability as motivation to try and accomplish new things to do.

He also uses his experience as reference and motivation to help other veterans to attempt to try new things themselves. Stephen believes that PTSD and TBI can be treated through recreational activities and if by

showing others it can be done and helping at least one other veteran he feels it be a success.

Air Force SMSgt Kevin Wallace (Purple Heart Recipient) SMSgt Kevin Wallace is the chief of Public Affairs at the 89th Airlift Wing, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. SMSgt Wallace is responsible for providing guidance and counsel to the 89th AW commander, Presidential Airlift Group commander, subordinate commanders and wing staff. He coordinates and communicates all media responses to the president, vice president, cabinet members, combatant commanders, and other senior military and elected leaders as tasked by the White House, Air Force chief of staff and Air Mobility Command. Additionally, he develops and synchronizes communication tactics to gain informed public support of 89th mission, operations and roles.

SMSgt Wallace entered the Air Force in September 1997 and his background includes various duties in EC-135, E-3, F-15, F-16, C-130, C-141, KC-10 and F-18 aircraft maintenance. He retrained into PA in January 2007, and has led hundreds of enlisted PAs during four assignments and multiple deployments. He served an extended overseas tour in Okinawa, an overseas tour in the U.K., and multiple deployments, including two combat tours in Afghanistan.

SMSgt Wallace is a warfighter, and was recognized by the Air Force Chief of Staff in his 2012 Portraits in Courage. He also garnered the U.S. Air Forces Europe Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs award, the Idaho Red Cross Hero of the Year award, the Daryl G. Winters Combat Camera award, and his combat images garnered top honors by the Department of Defense, FOX News and Maxim Magazine. After one brutal combat engagement in Afghanistan, his Platoon Leader recalled “Wallace immediately returned fire, augmenting between camera and rifle, firing 119 rounds and 190 photos.” After SMSgt Wallace and four others were hit with a rocket-propelled grenade, the Platoon Leader recalled, “Wallace continued to fire his weapon and to call out enemy positions even after being thrown against a wall, knocked unconscious and receiving burns to his neck. When I called for status south of our fighting position, disregarding his own life and personal safety, Wallace willingly exposed himself to hails of heavy PKM (heavy machine gun) fire three times to verify no insurgents were flanking the south, allowing elements to maneuver south to the CasEvac site without a single soldier being killed.

Some of SMSgt Wallace’s major awards and decorations include the Purple Heart, multiple Meritorious Service Medals, Joint Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Air Force Combat Action Medal, Army Combat Action Badge, Army Valorous Unit Award, and multiple Air Force Recognition Ribbons. He has also won dozens of Air Force and Major Command level awards and was recognized by the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom with the Exceptional Community Relations award for his work with Prince Harry for American and British Wounded Warriors in the UK. He remains active in community service, and mentors and participates in many Air Force Wounded Warrior Program events, as well as Wounded Warrior Project, Boy Scouts of America, and Lutheran Church events in Northern Virginia.

new 2016 Warriors

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Marine Gunnery SGT Sam Deeds (Ret) (Purple Heart Recipient) During his Iraq deployment in 2005, Deeds came across an improvised explosive device (IED) while setting up a vehicle checkpoint near Abu Ghraib Prison. When he saw two of his fellow Marines approaching the area, Deeds turned back toward the IED to warn them of danger. Moments after successfully warding off his comrades, the device blew. “It basically leveled me,” he said. His injuries set him on a path of nearly 40 operations and procedures to date. For his actions, Deeds received a Purple Heart, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, a Combat Action Ribbon and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. The moment he put his colleagues’ lives ahead of his own may have cemented his legacy as a military hero, but he wasn’t finished sacrificing his own welfare. In 2008, Deeds was recuperating from one of many surgeries–this one to repair a high-incision hernia. The surgical area was sutured and covered with a protective mesh. The doctors told him to avoid any strenuous activity for eight weeks. Six weeks into his recovery, Deeds was relaxing with his family on a beach when a woman was carried away by a rip tide. The woman’s husband and another man tried to save her, but all three were overcome by the current. “People were taking pictures and videos with their phones, and nobody was going to do anything,” he said. “I couldn’t let the guy drown in front of his family.” Deeds plunged into the rip tide and helped all three return safely to shore. The protective mesh and two sutures tore away, leaving a hernia so close to his sternum he opted not to have any more surgery. He’s been living with pain ever since. Deeds medically retired from the marines in 2011 with the rank of gunnery sergeant. Over the course of his injury-shortened career, he served Iraq, Japan, South Korea, and Haiti (twice). He also has worked in Greater Cincinnati as a recruiter.

Marine COL John Bates (Ret)(Three Time – Purple Heart Recipient) Marines Corps Colonel John Bates earned three Purple Hearts in Vietnam, the first after surviving machine-gun fire to the chest. Of the sensation, Colonel Bates says, “It’s like standing over home plate having Mark McGwire wind up and try to hit you out of the ballpark.” The second commendation came after a hand-grenade explosion blasted shrapnel into his leg. “If you’ve ever been hung up in barbed wire, that’s what it’s like,” says Colonel Bates. “Except it’s hot. Very, very hot. A searing heat and you can’t get it out.” Both experiences pale when compared to the time he fell into a pit and his left foot became impaled by a three-foot bamboo stake, the stake smeared with water-buffalo manure to maximize infection. Colonel Bates’ military passion seeped into him through his bloodlines. His father, Leland, who died two months ago, flew 51 combat missions during World War II. When the Vietnam War heated up in the mid-1960s, Colonel John Bates enlisted. The machine-gun fire to his chest didn’t deter him. After being hospitalized in intensive care for 23 days, Colonel Bates had been relegated to

mopping the hospital floor. “That wasn’t my intention for being in Vietnam,” he said. So he found a pair of boots, pants, and a blue hospital gown, walked out of the hospital, hitched a ride to the airfield, caught a helicopter and despite still spitting up blood, rejoined his platoon. “Everyone was glad to see me,” Colonel Bates says. “They needed more trigger-pullers.” Less than two years into his scheduled three-year enlistment, he was discharged because of the injuries he received in combat. In the next seven years Colonel Bates earned a bachelor’s degree and two masters. He worked as a substitute teacher, a railroad brakeman and a heavy-equipment operator. But his real goal was to rejoin the Marines. Knowing he’d have to prove his fitness, Colonel Bates began training intensely. Unbeknownst to his wife, Stephanie, over a 2½-year period he applied for readmission to the Corps at least five times. Finally, he was accepted. “Quite honestly,” Colonel Bates said, “I think I wore them down.” Colonel John Bates has served throughout the world since then, including tours in Kuwait during Desert Storm, and recently in Iraq.

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Army SSG Shilo Harris (Ret) (Purple Heart Recipient) Shilo Harris understands the difficult challenges facing all soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as how to overcome adversity. During his second combat tour in Iraq, his armored vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device (IED). The explosion on February 19, 2007 killed three of his fellow soldiers and wounded the driver. Burned over one-third of his body, Shilo spent 48 days in a coma followed by nearly three years of recovery at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. Shilo credits his recovery to the courage and commitment of his wife and family, and the dedication and expertise of the military medical community. Shilo’s mission today is to deliver a call to action on behalf of wounded warriors, their families, caregivers, and the surrounding communities. By offering hope, encouragement, and practical strategies for dealing with adversity, Shilo currently speaks to groups around the country about his experiences. Owner of WIN Home Inspection Services and national spokesperson for Helping A Hero, Shilo is a fierce advocate for today’s veterans. Shilo and his family were awarded a new home during ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition December 2012. His book, Steel Will, is available through Baker Publishing Group.

AmbAssAdor Warriors

Army SPC Ken Doyle (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Ken joined the Army in 2009 and after Basic Training and began his training as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician. After that training was complete he was stationed at FT. Bragg, NC until he deployed to Afghanistan Jan 2012 in support of 3rd Group Special Forces mission. On August 15, 2012 he was injured while his team was neutralizing an IED in a local village. Doyle spent the next two years stationed at Walter Reed hospital undergoing recovery and awaiting medical retirement. He is currently retired and living with his wife and son in Marion, NC where he is trying to open his own business in the community.

Air Force MAJ Timothy O’Sullivan (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Major Timothy O’Sullivan entered the Air Force in October of 1991 completing 21 years of military service after being medically retired in December of 2013 due to related combat injuries. Major O’Sullivan began his career in United States Air Force as an enlisted propulsion specialist. In early 2000, he was selected for Officer Training School at Maxwell AFB, Alabama where he earned a commission in May of 2000. Following his commission he was assigned to Air Force Special Operations as a contingency planner. Following the September 11th Terrorist attacks, Major O’Sullivan had then deployed to Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen and Oman from Hurlburt Field as part of the initial Special Operations Task Force, Joint Special Operations South/Task Force K-Bar and Task Force 11. In 2007, he deployed in lieu of Army as an embedded combat advisor with British and Australian Forces assigned to the Iraqi Army 10th and 14th Division in Basra Iraq. During this deployment, he endured nearly 1000 rocket attacks, 2 direct fire incidents, convoyed 500+ combat miles and was later injured on March 2nd

2008 during a convoy with British Forces by an 80lb explosively formed projectile. His injuries included a mild traumatic brain injury, internal bleeding and two surgeries removing several bones related to torn ligaments. By April of 2008, he was transferred to his home station MacDill AFB to receive ligament reconstruction, occupational Therapy and TBI treatments at the James A Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa. Upon recovery from his injuries, Major O’Sullivan continued his career at USCENTCOM HQ where he served as a principle advisor to the Combatant Commander (General David Petraeus/General James Mattis) on Security Assistance and Security Cooperation activities regarding Oman and Qatar. His distinguished awards include the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Air Force Combat Action Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal and the Distinguished Presidential Unit Citation.

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Marine CPL Mike Strahle (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) CPL Mike Strahle joined the United States Marine Corps in the Fall of 2003 and deployed to Iraq in January 2005 with Columbus based Lima Company, 3rd Battalion 25th Marines. On May 11, 2005 while conducting combat operations during Operation Matador, his vehicle struck an IED blast in the road, critically wounding him and fatally wounding six of his squad members. Mike would recover from his injuries and was medically retired in 2007. He now carries on the legacy of 3/25 and all service members by traveling The Eyes of Freedom: Lima Company Memorial all over the country. This traveling tribute honors all who have answered our nation’s call; then, now, and tomorrow.

Air Force MAJ Jason Regester (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Following a very long line of military service in my family Jason Regester enlisted in the Air Force on Oct 7th 1993 and served 9-1/2 years as a Structures Specialist in Civil Engineering. He was selected for Officer Training School in 2002 and received his commission on 27 June 2003 after graduating OTS and then served as a Logistics Readiness Officer until retirement on May 1st 2014. During his career he was deployed to Dhahran AB Saudi Arabia, Incirlik AB Turkey on two occasions; Soto Cano AB Honduras for Joint Task Force-Bravo supporting counter narcoterrorism operations, Guam for a humanitarian assistance mission following the devastation of Typhoon Chataan, and Baghdad Iraq as part of the Multi-National Security Transition Command. Some of the decorations he has earned during his career are the Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal x4, Joint Service Achievement

Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal x6, Army Achievement Medal x2, Joint Meritorious Unit Award x2, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award x6, and Iraq Campaign Medal w/ 2 service stars.

Army SGT Matthew Pennington (Ret)(Purple Heart Recipient) Raised in both Maine and Texas, Matthew Pennington entered into military service at the age of seventeen; he had a robust career full of responsibility and leadership roles. Then at the age of twenty three he was struck down by an ambush IED team in Iraq. Losing his left leg and receiving severe damage to his right he was honorably retired and received the Purple Heart and the state of Maine Silver Star among various others.

Matthew has starred in a short film “A Marines Guide to Fishing”. It is story that portrays an injured veteran’s transition back into the work place as well as coping with his loss one year later on his alive day.

Prior to acting, Matthew gave a speech for veteran’s day in the town of La Plata, Maryland as well as campaign videos for Senator Susan Collins. He has served on a panel for Secretary of Defense Gates at Walter Reed and received many of other types of recognition for his service to America.

Matthew has worked alongside director Nick Brennan and Marjorie Pennington to perform screenings of “Marines Guide to Fishing” to raise donations for charitable organizations serving veteran’s. It was creating these environments of entertainment and education that led him to further his speaking career as a Keynote Speaker for the Brain Injury Alliance, Joining Forces, various Military-Civilian conferences and Universities. Matthew has built a program that was endorsed by Congressman Mike Michaud and it has been replicated by the Vet Center’s located within Maine and has been reported to have great success.

Currently Matthew is a part-time National Spokesman/Field Associate for the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes, it is a job he believes in and also one that allows him to witness and hear about the positive impact made in the lives of the combat wounded. Matthew has been married to his wife Marjorie Pennington for 12 years and looks forward to a life full of giving to and assisting those in need.

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Fallen Warrior – Marine CPL Adam JonesMy son, CPL Adam D. Jones gave his life in Helmand Province, Afghanistan on April 27, 2011. He was on his 5th deployment.

I have started a non-profit, 501c3 organization in his memory. Adam’s Hope sends items to deployed troops. We send anything from microwaves to beef jerky.

- Carolyn Hibberd and Kelly Jones-Collins

For more information on Adam’s Hope, visit www.adamshope.com.

Fallen Warrior – Army SFC Ofren “AC” Arrechaga Seana and Alston Arrechaga are the widow and son of SFC Ofren “AC” Arrechaga, KIA 29 March 2011, Kunar Province, Afghanistan. Ofren was born in Havana, Cuba, on December 22, 1982. He and his family moved to Hialeah, Florida, when he was 14. In February 2001, at the age of 18, Ofren enlisted in the United States Army. He was assigned to Alpha Company, 2-327 Infantry Regiment (No Slack), 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) where he remained the entirety of his 10 years in active duty service. During Ofren’s career he was deployed four times, three to Iraq, once to Afghanistan.

Seana and Ofren met in 2006, married in 2007, and welcomed Alston into the world halfway through Ofren’s third tour in 2008. During that same deployment Ofren became a United States citizen after serving for seven years.

In April 2010, Ofren deployed to Afghanistan in what would be his hardest deployment yet. By the first week of July, 11 of his brothers had given their lives. On March 29, 2011, the day after Alston’s third birthday, Ofren and five others would do the same. Their final mission and sacrifices can be seen in the documentaries The Hornets Nest, and No Greater Love.

Ofren is best known among his men for his ability to boost morale. Even on the worst of days he could make just about anyone laugh, even if they were laughing at him instead of with him. Ofren loved his job but he loved his guys more and that was evident in everything he did. Shortly before his death Ofren received orders to be a Ranger Instructor at Fort Benning. He was beyond excited to have a few non-deployable years with his family.

Seana and Alston currently live in Amelia, Ohio. Seana is a spokeswoman for The Hornets Nest, No Greater Love, and Snowball Express. She also does some advocacy work for Gold Star Families in DC. Alston is 8 years old and doesn’t know a stranger. He’s the spitting image of his father but his personality is a good mix of both his mom and dad. He’s looking forward to starting third grade in the fall.

- Seana Arrechaga

Fallen Warrior – Army SPC Jacob DohrenwendJacob Dohrenwend was a 2008 graduate of Milford High School. Spc. Dohrenwend was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan. He died June 21, 2010 at Balad, Iraq.

- James Dohrenwend

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Fallen Warrior – Marine Sgt Jeremy Murray Harold and Pam Murray are the parents of fallen SGT Jeremy Murray KIA 11-16-05, Haditha Damn, Iraq. Jeremy entered the military in 1996. He joined the Army, Infantry, Airborne, Ranger training, left that in 1998, then went to the Marines. He was with 3/1 division on his third deployment when he died from an IED. Jeremy was married to Megan and blessed us with his son Ian. Harold and I ride our motorcycle, and belong to and are actively involved with Rolling Thunder. We attend and support many military events.

- Harold and Pam Murray

Fallen Warrior – Army SGT James Robinson James Christopher Robinson Jr. was born on May 24th, 1983 and was raised in Monroe, Ohio. As a student, Jimmy took to soccer and the science club. No matter his team’s record, Jimmy saw the best in his fellow players and always tried to keep an upbeat attitude. He was a graduate of Lemon-Monroe High School in the class of 2001.

Jimmy enlisted in the United States Army in February of 2005, shortly after marrying his wife, Kate. He had grown up with an appreciation for the military and a love for America. Both of his grandfathers were in the Army and thus set the foundation of pride and honor within him. He was assigned to the Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky. SPC Robinson deployed for his first call of duty to Iraq in 2006. Thankfully, he came home to his wife, Kate, daughter, Emmy, and the rest of his family and friends. In September of 2007, Jimmy and Kate were blessed with another daughter, Tori. One week after Tori’s birth, Jimmy deployed to Iraq for the second time. Again his family was blessed that he came home safely.

On February 6th, 2010, Jimmy’s unit again deployed – this time their destination was Afghanistan. In April of 2010, Jimmy came home for mid-tour leave. On August 15th, 2010 SPC Robinson was promoted to CPL in Afghanistan. Thirteen days later, CPL Robinson was killed in action in the Bermal district, Paktika province, Afghanistan. In the early hours of August 30th, 2010, Jimmy was again on U.S. soil and upon his arrival was promoted to SGT. On September 6th, SGT Jimmy Robinson came home for the last time as family and friends escorted him. On September 9th, 2010, Jimmy was laid to rest as tears fell and goodbyes were said. However, SGT Robinson’s legacy was far from over. In the months following his death, his family continued to honor him. Many took his attitude and love for life to heart and saw the world how he saw it. Jimmy could make any moment memorable or more lighthearted by simply being himself. He was the kind of guy who could make you smile through any kind of pain and the kind of person that would make you a better person just from knowing him.

Jimmy was a dedicated soldier who would do any job asked of him. He never complained about any task in front of him – and to those who did, he would give his signature reply “SHABOOMS”. Jimmy didn’t see himself as a Hero, but to all who knew him he is nothing less than that. To quote him, “Everyone has a job, being a soldier just happens to be mine. It’s a job. I just do it.” Ever selfless, there is no doubt that Jimmy would do it all over again, without even a second thought. Family was the most important thing to Jimmy and that’s why he did the job he did; He served to protect his family back home. His family also included his brothers at arms that he served with. His blood family was with him in spirit; his Army family was with him every step of the way until he took his last. SGT Jimmy Robinson would have taken the bullet for any of them before he would allow them to do so for him. It’s just how he was, so selfless and loving.

- James Robinson

new 2016 Gold Star Families

Fallen Warrior – Army SPC Donald “Scott” Morrison On September 26, 2010, my son, SPC. Morrison, Donald “Scott” was KIA. This was his first deployment during Operation Enduring Freedom. Prior to deployment he was stationed at Fort Hood, TX to the 584th Mobility Augmentation Company, 20th Engineer Battalion.

- Don Morrison

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Fallen Warrior – Marine LCPL William “Billy” David SpencerLCPL William “Billy” David Spencer was born September 6, 1986. He started school at Murray State after moving to TN. Billy met some friends in Paris, TN; and as a group the young men decided that to help pay for college they would join the Marine Corps. The day after reporting to his reserve station, his squad was activated to deploy overseas. Billy volunteered to go. He arrived in Iraq in September. One day when Billy saw his squad leader wounded in an Iraq shootout, he did the only thing he could do: He tried to save his commanding officer. He was killed in the process, hit by enemy fire on Dec. 28, 2006, in Al Anbar province. Nearly two years later, Spencer was awarded the Silver Star — the U.S. Military’s third-highest honor — in a ceremony at Nashville State Community College. Billy’s parents love to share his personality with this story. Billy was a wonderful runner and a great athlete. However, in high school Billy would get out of running laps in football practice by volunteering to read to elementary students. He loved animals and just being around everybody.

“I’ve had people tell me that time heals all wounds,” David said. “I don’t believe that to be true, because my wound, I tend to it every morning when I get up … I dress that wound every day.”

- David Spencer

Fallen Warrior – Marine SSgt Mark Anthony Wojciechowski (Tony “Wojo”)(Purple Heart Recipient) SSgt Mark Anthony Wojciechowski (Tony “Wojo”) was born March 10, 1984 at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, in Dayton Ohio. Tony enlisted in the Marine Corp before graduating high school and chose infantry and security forces for his primary and secondary MOS. After three years and his first re-enlistment, he chose the elite Explosive Ordinance Disposal for his new MOS. After graduating EOD School at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida on August 2, 2006, he served in Okinawa, Japan and was then deployed to Iraq from February, 2007 to September, 2007. Tony also trained in the northern mountains of California where he attended the SERE course. Tony was then stationed at Camp Pendleton, California, and from there he deployed to Iraq again in February, 2009. SSgt Wojciechowski was killed while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq on April 30, 2009. Tony was 25 years old. His awards include the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor, the Navy

Achievement Medal with a Gold Star in lieu of his second award, Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

- Teresa Dillinger

Fallen Warrior – Army 1LT Justin Smith On 7 November 2005, my husband, 1LT Justin Smith and his platoon were conducting a vehicle checkpoint south of Baghdad. Their replacements were on the way and there were only a few vehicles left to search. Unfortunately, one of those vehicles was packed with explosives and detonated, killing Justin instantly. Three members of his platoon were also killed as well as their Iraqi interpreter. He was an amazing man....in all aspects. Husband, daddy, son, friend and soldier. His smile could not be contained nor ignored. He had a spirit I’ve never encountered before nor since and he is missed every single moment. He is loved every single moment. And he will never be forgotten.

- Shellie Smith

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Fallen Warrior – Marine LCP Taylor PrazynskiTaylor B. Prazynski, Lance Corporal, United States Marine CorpsBorn at the Medical Center at Hill Air Force Base Utah 12 Nov. 1984. He graduated Fairfield High School, Fairfield Ohio and joined United States Marine Corps 5 Nov. 2003. Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island South Carolina. 3rd Battalion 8th Marine Regiment, L Company, 4th Platoon, Squad Automatic Weapon Gunner, MOS 0311, Infantry, 2nd Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Served in Operation Secure Tomorrow, Port Au Prince, Haiti March-June 2004. Served in Operation Iraqi Freedom January 2005 – May 2005. He was killed in Action 9 May 2005, in Al Karmah, 16km Northeast of Fallujah, Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Awards Include: Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery, Section 60, Site 8111.*Friend of Marine LCPL Siewert & Marine Sgt Steve Thompson. See page 13.

Fallen Warrior – Marine CPL Christopher “Tyler” WarndorfCorporal Christopher “Tyler” Warndorf- Was born on July 15, 1985 and K.I.A. on August 29, 2006. He proudly represented the United States Marine Corp. His bravery earned him several medals, awards, and decorations, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon and the Purple Heart. He was assigned to Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, based in Camp Lejeune, NC. He was first deployed to Haiti. As a very naive young man the conditions and how the children were force to scavenge for food appalled Tyler. He requested us to send healthy snacks. He was known for his compassion, sense of duty and responsibility. He was only 9 when his father passed away, taking on the role of “Man of the house.” He told me that about a week after his father was gone. Saying, “Mommy you don’t have to ever worry, or be sad. I am now the man of this house and I promise to help you with Nick (age 7) and Katelyn (age 2). He put his loving little arms around me

and I never felt so loved. Tyler had a way about making every single person he met feel as if they were everything to him. I never had to tell Tyler what to do, he just did it. He was very determined, strong willed, and went after everything in life he wanted to achieve. He was beloved by so many and continues that in death. I am so honored to call him my son.

To date he has 9 children named in his honor. I will say the past ten years have had it’s good and bad days with his existence gone…but, whenever I need that extra reminder that he is not forgotten I will hear from a Marine. I have been fortunate to have their love, hear their stories of how Tyler impacted their lives. It always touches and amazes me how truly wonderful he was. He certainly was an amazing young man. He loved to serve God, Family, and Country. He did his job exceedingly well! In life…even the last moments leading up to his death. He was taking his men water who were in the tower. As always making sure others were being taken care of. He noticed the vehicle at the gate in Al Anbar Post was not being checked properly. I was told he grabbed the interpreter and took off running with no other thought, but to stop them. It was because of his quick action that vehicle with its whole purpose to kill unsuspecting soldiers was stopped. He freely gave his life in order to protect others. So when you hear this name, look at his picture, I only to leave you with one summation of the man he was…the most SELFLESS human being I have ever known. Semper Fi, God Bless, and all my love! - Tina L. Warndorf

Fallen Warrior – Marine CPL Paul W. Zanowick IICorporal Paul W. (Rocky) Zanowick, II was born in Miamisburg, Ohio on 31 December 1987. He enlisted in the Marine Corps and reported for recruit training at MCRD Parris Island, South Carolina on 21 January 2008. After earning the title, “Marine”, Corporal Zanowick reported to the School of Infantry-East, Camp Geiger, North Carolina to attend the Basic Infantryman program of instruction and the Anti Tank Guided Missileman program of instruction graduating with a MOS of 0352. In October 2008, after completion of MOS training, Corporal Zanowick reported for duty with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California. On 1 June 2009, Corporal Zanowick was promoted to Corporal. On 4 October 2009, Corporal Zanowick deployed to Afghanistan with Regimental Combat Team 7 and served for 7 months in Helmand province in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. On 9 April 2011, Corporal Zanowick deployed a second time with Weapons Company, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned as a vehicle commander with Blue Section, Combined Anti-Armored Team Two. Corporal Zanowick was mortally wounded while conducting offensive operations in the Upper Gereshk Valley, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on 3 June 2011. Corporal Zanowick is survived by his wife the former Ryan Lynn Detwiler from Pennsylvania, his 2 year old son, Uriah Zanowick of Twentynine Palms, California, his parents Paul and Nanette Zanowick, and his sister Nicole Zanowick all of Miamisburg, Ohio. *Friend of Marine Sgt Daniel Erlandson. See page 10.

AmbAssAdor Gold Star Families

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FulL ScheduLeteam Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to remember 2016

Wednesday, July 6, 2016 & thursdAy, July 7, 2016

Time Activity Location9:00-5:00 PM Ambassador Warriors AFF Skydiving Progression Start Skydiving, Middletown, Ohio9:00-5:00 PM Pick Up Ambassadors at Airport CVG Primary - DAY Secondary6:00-8:00 PM Final planning team meeting - Food and Drinks Provided for

everyoneAC Marriott at Liberty Center

All planning team, drivers, CP, Ambassadors AC Marriott at Liberty CenterFood for planning team AC Marriott at Liberty Center

ThursdayTime Activity Location9:00-12:00 PM Ambassador Warriors AFF Skydiving Progression Start Skydiving, Middletown, Ohio9:00-7:00 PM All Warrior/VIP Transport, Registration, Hotel Check In, Food

and OrientationAC Marriott at Liberty Center

9:00-10:00 AM Set up and Staff Registration and Command Post Together at Hotel

AC Marriott at Liberty Center

9:00-3:00 PM Pick Up for all Honored Warriors, GS and VIP CVG Primary - DAY Secondary11:00-5:00 PM Patriot Pin Ups Greet Arriving Warriors in Lobby AC Marriott at Liberty Center12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Hotel for all Warriors, GS and Volunteers AC Marriott at Liberty Center3:00-7:00 PM All Exhibits: 101st Exhibit, Lima Company, dogs, Patriot Pin Ups AC Marriott at Liberty Center4:30-5:30 PM Appetizers AC Marriott at Liberty Center5:00 PM Hot Rods arrive and line up for parade. AC Marriott at Liberty Center5:00-7:00 PM Warrior Weekend Orientation Briefing & Social (Planning team,

Ambassadors and Honored Warriors/GS)AC Marriott at Liberty Center

7:00-7:30 PM Parade/Transport Warriors from Hotel to Full Throttle via Hotrods Opie and Gem City Classic Auto

AC Marriott at Liberty Center

7:30-11:00 PM Warrior Weekend Welcome Reception (Honored Warriors, GS, Sponsors and Planning Team)

Full Throttle Racing, Tri-County

7:30-11:00 PM Racing for Warriors, GS and Sponsors Full Throttle Racing, Tri-County7:30-8:30 PM Fricker's Catered Appetizers (No Alcohol at Race Track) Full Throttle Racing, Tri-County7:30-9:30 PM Entertainment with Stephen Kelley & Steve Ream DJ Full Throttle Racing, Tri-County7:30-11:00 PM All Exhibits: 101st Exhibit, Lima Company, dogs, Patriot Pin Ups Full Throttle Racing, Tri-County11:00-11:30 PM Transport Warriors & GS from Full Throttle Full Throttle Racing, Tri-CountyLate Evening Night Bow Fishing with Tony Ryan Great Miami River

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FulL ScheduLeteam Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to remember 2016

Friday, July 8, 2016

Time Activity LocationMorning Breakfast AC Marriott at Liberty Center8:00 AM Transport Warriors & GS to Gun Shoot AC Marriott at Liberty Center9:00-4:00 PM Multi-gun Shoot at Miamisburg Sportsmen's Club (Honored

Warriors, GS, Sponsors and Active Military Only)MSC, Miamisburg, Ohio

10:30 AM Transport Warriors to Gun Shoot (Afternoon Group) AC Marriott at Liberty Center12:00-1:00 PM Lunch - All Warriors and VIP Miamisburg Sportsmen’s Club4:00-6:00 PM Warrior & GS Rest and Relax at Hotel AC Marriott at Liberty Center6:00 PM Ohio Challenge Demo Jump - TFX Flag/Streamer Jumpers Smith Park6:00-6:30 PM Muddy Buddies Transport to Warrior Concert AC Marriott at Liberty Center6:30-6:45 PM Roadside Welcome Tribute - Jeep Convoy through Franklin

Location TBD - open to the publicFranklin, Ohio

8:15 PM Ohio Challenge TFX Jump Big Flag at Ohio Challenge (Warriors & GS at Concert)

Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio

10:00 PM Ohio Challenge TFX Jump - TFX Pyrotechnic Skydive at Ohio Challenge (Warriors & GS at Concert)

Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio

Evening Lonestar Military Tribute Concert (Honored Warriors, GS, Sponsors and Active Military Only)

JD Legends, Franklin, Ohio

5:00 PM Entertainment Starts JD Legends, Franklin, Ohio6:30 PM Food Served, start on break between bands JD Legends, Franklin, Ohio7:00 PM Honored Warriors & GS Arrive with Muddy Buddies JD Legends, Franklin, Ohio8:00 PM Ceremony to acknowledge honored Guests and Warriors (Honor

Guard/Bag Pipes)JD Legends, Franklin, Ohio

11:00-11:30 PM Transport Warriors & GS from Concert to Hotel JD Legends, Franklin, OhioLate Evening Night Bow Fishing with Tony Ryan Great Miami River

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FulL ScheduLeteam Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to remember 2016

SaturdAy, July 9, 2016

Time Activity LocationEarly Morning Transport Hot Air Balloon Ride Warriors & GS, exact time TBD AC Marriott at Liberty CenterMorning Breakfast AC Marriott at Liberty CenterSunrise Hot Air Balloon Rides Start Skydiving, Middletown, Ohio6:00 AM Set up for 5k Walk, Run, Ranger Ruck and GS Bike Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio6:00 AM Set up Registration Tables and PA Truck Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio6:30 AM Open Registration for GS Bike Ride Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio7:00 AM Transport Warriors & GS to Pancake Breakfast and Smith Park

EventsOhio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio

7:30 AM Start Gold Star Bike (Open to the Public) Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio7:30 AM Open Registration for Walk, Run and Ranger Ruck Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio7:30-8:00 AM Warrior & GS Pancake Breakfast Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio8:40 AM Welcome, Race Directions and Thank You Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio8:45 AM Invocation and Warrior Pep Talk Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio8:50 AM National Anthem Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio8:50 AM TFX Jump US Flag, PH Flag and GS Flag Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio9:00 AM Start 5k Run, Walk and Ranger Ruck (Open to the Public) Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio10:30 AM Conclude Race - Warriors award medals at finish line Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio9:00-5:00 PM Golf Cart Transport Available (Use Planning Team and TFX) Start Skydiving, Middletown, Ohio9:00-5:00 PM Video Game Trailer at DZ Start Skydiving, Middletown, Ohio9:00-5:00 PM Aarons Furniture Store provide Warrior/Command Post Chill

out Area FurnitureStart Skydiving, Middletown, Ohio

9:00-5:00 PM "Aircraft Rides and Tandem Skydives (Honored Warriors & GS Only) Tandem Skydives, WW II Bomber Rides, WW II Fighter #1 Rides, Bi-Plane Rides, Scenic Helicopter Rides, UH1H Huey Rides"

Start Skydiving, Middletown, Ohio

12:00- 1:00 PM Lunch for all Warriors, GS and Sponsors Start Skydiving, Middletown, OhioAfternoon Optional, warriors can transport back to the hotel to rest before

5:00 dinnerAC Marriott at Liberty Center

4:00 to 10:30pm Full Ohio Challenge Festival, Hot Air Balloons, Music and exhibits

Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio

4:00-5:00 PM Charity Car Show - Warriors Choice Judging 4:30 to 5pm (Open to the Public)

Ohio Challenge (Stage left), Smith Park

6:00-10:00 PM 101st Airborne Living History Team Exhibit - On Display Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio6:00-10:00 PM Lima Company Memorial - On Display Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio4:00/5:00/6:00 PM TFX Jump - Flag/Streamer Jumpers Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio5:00-6:30 PM  Private Warrior Weekend VIP Dinner (200 People) Hanger, Hook Field, Middletown, Ohio

Guests arrive, get food (Buffet) and sit down Hanger, Hook Field, Middletown, OhioWelcome Prayer and Pledge, VIP, Warrior, GS, Sponsor and volunteer acknowledgments

Hanger, Hook Field, Middletown, Ohio

Diamond Jubilee Chorus Sing Patriotic Songs (15-20 Min) Hanger, Hook Field, Middletown, OhioComments: Senior Leader, WPAFB, Ohio Hanger, Hook Field, Middletown, OhioDinner Keynote: TBD Hanger, Hook Field, Middletown, Ohio

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FulL ScheduLeteam Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to remember 2016

SaturdAy, July 9, 2016 & Sunday July 10, 2016

Time Activity LocationWrap up and proceed to Ohio Challenge stage Hanger, Hook Field, Middletown, Ohio

6:45-7:00 PM Warriors & GS Convoy in Muddy Buddies Jeeps to Main Stage Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio7:00-8:00 PM Public Warrior & GS Ceremony on Ohio Challenge Main Stage Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio

All Comments and Warrior Awards and Presentation Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio7:00-8:00 PM Ohio Challenge Mass Balloon Launch Launch from Hook Field/Middletown Airport 7:00 to 9:00 PM Ohio Challenge Fluff & Puff - Walk through inflated balloon; Ohio Challenge, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio8:15 PM Demo - TFX-WW Tandems/Big Flag (Sing National Anthem) VIP Tent, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio8:00 PM Convoy Muddy Buddy Jeeps around inside perimeter of Balloon

Launch area to the VIP PavilionVIP Tent, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio

9:15 - 9:45 PM Ohio Challenge Balloon Glow - Pair Warriors with Balloon Pilots

VIP Tent, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio

10:00 PM TFX Jump Pyrotechnic Skydive VIP Tent, Smith Park, Middletown, Ohio10:05 PM Ohio Challenge Fireworks Show VIP Tent, Smith Park, Middletown, OhioEvening Warrior Bonfire Party Start Skydiving, Middletown, OhioEvening Transport Warriors & GS back to hotel as needed and request AC Marriott at Liberty CenterLate Evening Night Bow Fishing with Tony Ryan Great Miami River

SundayTime Activity LocationMorning Warrior Farewell Breakfast and Wrap Up AC Marriott at Liberty CenterMorning Optional Church for Warriors who want to attend with the

Adopt a Warrior ChurchesAC Marriott at Liberty Center

Morning Check out from Hotel AC Marriott at Liberty Center9:00 - 3:00 PM Shuttle to airport. CVG Primary - DAY Secondary

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Role NameGold Star Ambassadors Team (Local)

Gold Star Family Support Paul Zanowick

Gold Star Family Support Carol Prazynski

Gold Star Family Support John Prazynski

Gold Star Family Support Tina Warndorf

Gold Star Family Support Chris Herwick

Purple Heart Ambassadors (Local)

Purple Heart Ambassador Lead Sam Deeds

Purple Heart Ambassadors - AF Tim O’Sullivan

Purple Heart Ambassadors - AF Jason Regester

Purple Heart Ambassadors - MC John Bates

Purple Heart Ambassadors - MC Mike Strahle

Purple Heart Ambassadors - Army Ken Doyle

Purple Heart Ambassadors - Army Shilo Harris

Purple Heart Ambassadors - Army Matthew Pennington

Multi Gun Shoot & Gnats Team

Team Lead Paul Stanford

Miamisburg Sportsmen’s Club Richard Mandas

Middletown Gun Club/Gnat Shooting Adam Ralston

Tailgating for Troops President Joe Montgomery

Athletic Event Team

Run Lead Matt Harvey

Ranger Ruck Lead Sayre Payne

Bike Ride Lead Gene Newsom

Ranger Ruck PH Ambassador Support Alec Ross

Bike Ride Support Michael Bott

Bike Ride Support Kim Bott

Air Operations Team

Air Operations Team Lead Mike Ruggiero

Air Operations Support Rich Easterly

288th Pathfinder Squadron Civil Air Patrol Vanessa King

288th Pathfinder Squadron Civil Air Patrol Sam McClung

288th Pathfinder Squadron Civil Air Patrol Richard King

UH-IH Huey, Indiana Search & Rescue Charlie Walker

Bi-Plane Owner Dewey Davenport

Higher Ground Helicopters Walt Edmundson

WWII T-28 Fighter Verlin McIntosh

WWII B-25 Bomber Kenny Wiggers

This project has been a massive undertaking, it’s been organized 100% by volunteers within our communities. Our planning team consists of more than 100 members, in addition to the several hundred event volunteers that make this a Weekend to Remember.

Team Fastrax™ has a team member involved in nearly every aspect of planning and execution. Each event has it’s own team that meets to organize, plan, and execute their part of the event. The overall planning team has met every month throughout the last year, to ensure all elements are taken into consideration. It’s worth a special call out to the Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival and their willingness to bend over backwards to accommodate the Team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to Remember.

Command Post Main Number: 513-601-3663Role NameTFX Primary Event Director (POC) David Hart

Command Post & Operations

CP Team Lead Lori Hart

CP Team Lead Lisa Ruggiero

CP Ambassador PH Warrior Support Jason Regester

Ohio Challenge Team

OC Event Director Kathy Stites

OC Event Support Brad Short

OC Liaison - Warrior Ambassador Dan Sack

OC Media Jessica Burgess

OC Website Amy Askren

TFX/OC Airboss Kyle Sward

Event Treasurer

Treasurer Diana Nelson

Event Support & Transportation Team

Golf Cart Lead Mark Russell

Muddy Buddies Jeep Wrangler Club John Howell

Muddy Buddies Jeep Wrangler Club Beth Hayes

Muddy Buddies Jeep Wrangler Club David Hayes

Operational Detail Planning Support Teresa Macalolooy

Photos/Video Lead Perry Davis

Transportation Lead Dan Prindle

Transportation Support Derrick Creech

Video Support Matthew Allaire

Volunteer Coordination Lead Leslie Moore

Volunteer Support Claire Revalee

Sponsorship, Raffles, Graphics, PR Team

Team Lead John P. Hart II

Graphics Support Melissa Fleming

PR/Marketing Support Mike Stoff

SimTrainer 10th Anniversary 10 Gun Raffle Jeff Pedro

Sponsorship Support Bruce Moyer

Sponsorship Support Deborah Gross

Raffle Coordination Lead Perry Davis

Registration, Travel, Lodging Team

Team Lead Rachel Prindle

Air Fare Booking - Valor Vacations Sandy Lombardo

Wed Registration (VFW Post 3809) Janet Hall

team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to remember Planning team

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team Fastrax™ Warrior Weekend to remember Planning team

Role NameGentle Breeze Hot Air Balloons Brian Trapp

Gentle Breeze Hot Air Balloons Laurie Givins

Jump Operations

Start Skydiving Warrior Boogie Lead Arianna Williams

TFX Tandem/AFF/Tandem Lead Bud Prenatt

TFX Support Cheryl Compton

TFX Support Amy Fillion

TFX Support Larry Compton

TFX Support John Garrido

TFX Support Shannon Woodbury

TFX Support Jay Stokes

TFX Support Rob Richardson

TFX Support Dan Paganini

TFX Support John Harth

TFX Support Paul Peckham

TFX Support Shannon Harth

TFX Support John Hart 3

TFX Support Nate Moore

TFX Support Zeke Allmon

TFX Support Alex Hart

Night Bow Fishing

Boat Owner, Bow Fishing Tony Ryan

Indoor Go Cart Racing (Thursday)

Team Lead PH Ambassador Support Sam Deeds

Full Throttle Aaron

Full Throttle Joe Gorman

Dogs

Dogs Warrior Support Tony Paletta

Dogs Spike's K9 Fund Jill Cutter

Meals & VIP Dinners

Food Lead Regina Gaw

Volunteer Support/Stepping Down Robin Heider

Volunteer Support Amber Paul

Volunteer Support Whitney Hale

Entertainment/Military Tribute Concert

Team Lead Steve Ream

JD Legends Lead Charlie Samaan

Wed Evening Guitar (Wed evening) Stephen Kelly Hunt

USO of Central & Southern Ohio Jackie Spector

USO of Central & Southern Ohio Sherry EMS

USO of Central & Southern Ohio Sue Ann Carroll

USO of Central & Southern Ohio CD Moore

Concert Support Joanne Allswede

Concert Support Tony Szelkely

Concert Support Joni Ahlers

Role NameAdopt-A-Warrior (Prayers)

Team Lead Mike Burke

Adopt-A-Warrior Support Emily Mather

Greater Dayton Association of Baptists Steve Stiglich

Chaplin Support, WPAFB Lt Col Shon Neyland

Chaplin Support, WPAFB Theadore Wilson

Middletown PD Chaplain Clark Helvey

Halo For Freedom Support

Halo For Freedom Support Joanna Arnold

Patriot Project Support

Patriot Project (Chiropractic) Tim Novelli

Community Support

101st AB Living History Team Bob Traphagan

77th Pathfinder Warrior Support Cliff Rittenhouse

77th Pathfinder Warrior Support Jim McCambridge

88th Airbase Wing, WPAFB Liaison Danna Plewe

A Troop 2-107th CAV RGT, OHARNG Sam Sampson

Author Pete Telep

Butler County CVB Margret Gorman

City of Middletown David VanArsdale

City of Middletown Doug Adkins

Combat Veterans to Careers David Booth

Community Support Mark Reboulet

Community Support Frances Sack

Community Support Rick Gibbs

Community Support Jordan Lawson

Community Support Opie Willis

Community Support Staff Ouderkirk

Community Support - Sponsor Jim Johnson

Dayton Convention & Visitor Bureau Christina Combs

Diamond Jubilee Chorus Marge Forrester

Franklin/Purple Heart Support Jim Mears

Medical Support Team Amber Wright

Ohio State Highway Patrol Brian Bost

Patriot Pinups Trisha Clark

Support (Shilo Harris) Jamie Buckhorn

US Air Force Recruiting Elsie Mavron

US Army Recruiting Chris Varga

USAF Leadership Liaison Ken Moran

USMC Recruiting Cody Meggs

USVMCOH.com - Vet Biker Group Kirk

USVMCOH.com - Vet Biker Group Elmo

Vixens4Veterans Ashlie Porter

Warren County Veteran Services Andy Martin