STAFF

With a background in nonprofit development and executive leadership, Kerry has a proven track record of strategically developing growth for sustainable and impactful organizations.

As a veteran spouse deeply entrenched in the Special Operations Forces (SOF) community, Kerry possesses a unique perspective on the challenges faced by those served by OHF. Having experienced military life from multiple angles—as the daughter, wife, and mother of U.S. Service Members—Kerry intimately understands the sacrifices and struggles endured by our nation’s heroes and their families.

Poised to lead OHF into its next phase of growth and development, Kerry is committed to forging powerful partnerships nationwide to expand programming and capacity. Her vision is to enhance OHF’s ability to support special operations service members, their families, and their caregivers, ensuring they receive the assistance and resources they need to thrive.

Kerry’s dedication to supporting military and veteran communities extends beyond her role at OHF. As a Master Resilience Trainer, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) facilitator, and Transition Assistance Program (TAP) employment facilitator, she actively contributes to the well-being and resilience of service members and their families. Additionally, Kerry serves on the board of directors for the Military Special Operations Family Collaborative and the TEACH Family Advisory Panel of the Transforming Health and Resilience in Veterans (THRIVE) program at UNC-Chapel Hill.

Kerry’s advocacy efforts and ability to cultivate impactful collaborations have earned her recognition at the highest levels. She is the recipient of the prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award and the Secretary of the Army’s Superior Public Service Medal, acknowledging her unwavering commitment to serving others. Her dedication to military families has been further recognized through her thrice-earned title as Military Spouse of the Year.

In addition to her professional achievements, Kerry is a respected columnist, authoring The Home Front column for the Military Times. Through her writing, she sheds light on the unique experiences and challenges faced by military families, amplifying their voices and advocating for their needs.

Kerry’s leadership, advocacy, and unwavering dedication make her an invaluable asset to Operation Healing Forces and the military and veteran communities it serves. Under her guidance, OHF is poised to continue making a profound impact in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much in service to our nation.

Desiree has over 20 years’ experience working within the nonprofit community, 16 of those years serving families in the Special Operations Community. Desiree was a member of the Community Outreach team at United States Special Operations Command Warrior Care Program that resourced $4.5 million in benevolent support to wounded, ill, and injured warriors and their families annually. Her in-depth knowledge of the resources and benefits available to SOF families has allowed OHF to provide increased support and services to our current and future alumni.

Desiree earned her Master of Science from the University of Florida in Health Education and Behavior and remains a key player as we move forward in tracking the long-term success of Operation Healing Forces’ programs through measurable outcomes and making improvements through continuous program evaluation and best practice guidance. She also completed a program at University of Tampa in Nonprofit Management to better serve Operation Healing Forces as their Chief Operating Officer overseeing all operational aspects of the organization. She recently became a proud alumnus of the George W. Bush Institutes’ Veteran Leadership Program. The program is aimed at accomplished leaders from diverse sectors across the country who are motivated to increase their impact in supporting our Nation’s veterans.

Desiree is happily married to her high school sweetheart and has two beautiful children, one spunky golden retriever, and two cats. She loves to read, volunteer with her kid’s activities, cheer for the University of Florida Gators, and spend lots of time with her family and friends.

Chris retired from the Marine Corps in 2016.  He was an Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) technician, spending his twenty-four-year career either supporting, training, or being attached to SOF units during his seven deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and other points in the Middle East and Europe. Chris also spent a year on Capitol Hill as a wounded warrior fellow on the House Veterans Affairs’ committee, advocating for Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) reform. Chris spent his last two years on active duty directly serving SOF Wounded, ill, and injured SOF members at Walter Reed as the Care Coalition SEA.

Chris has become a vocal advocate for Creative Art Therapies and runs a military and veteran glassblowing course in St. Petersburg, FL in his spare time, a result of his personal successes with the therapy modality in his own healing journey.

Chris’s personal awards include two Meritorious Service Medals, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal with combat “V”, Army and Navy Achievement medals, two Combat Action Ribbons and the Purple Heart.

Chris has a BS in Environmental Science from American Military University, and an MFA in Writing from National University. Chris currently lives in Tampa, FL with his wife Brandy and their two children, Zac and Miranda.

Billy’s career path was marked by excellence and dedication, with 16 years spent in the esteemed 75th Ranger Regiment. Known for their elite status and rigorous training, the Rangers exemplify the highest standards of military service, and Billy’s tenure within this elite unit speaks volumes about his skills and capabilities. Additionally, Billy served four years at USSOCOM Headquarters, where he played a crucial role in providing vital assistance to wounded special operations forces service members. His firsthand experience with the challenges faced by wounded warriors uniquely positions him to understand and address their needs.

Throughout his career, Billy demonstrated remarkable resilience, with 13 deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan under his belt. His exemplary service and dedication were recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including the prestigious Legion of Merit Award, two Bronze Star Medals, two Meritorious Service Medals, and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge. These accolades are a testament to Billy’s unwavering commitment to excellence and his exceptional contributions to the missions he was assigned.

As a member of the Operation Healing Forces team, Billy is dedicated to leveraging his expertise and experience to support fellow special operations forces service members and their families on their journey to healing and recovery. His firsthand understanding of the unique challenges faced by the SOF community, coupled with his compassion and dedication, make him a valuable asset to the OHF mission.

Since then, Tiers has been an unwavering source of strength and support for her husband, her children, and her fellow Special Operations Forces families.

Over the years, Tiers has amassed a vast global network and honed the knowledge and skills necessary to promote resiliency within the SOF community. In 2021, she became an integral part of OHF’s Special Operations Additional Resource (SOAR) program, furthering her commitment to supporting and empowering Special Operations Soldiers and their families.

For more than two decades, Tiers has worked tirelessly to educate, encourage, support, and inspire Special Operations Soldiers and their families, particularly during deployments and combat rotations. Her dedication and mentorship have made a profound impact on countless lives, earning her recognition as a strong advocate for the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Preservation of the Family and Force (POTFF) program.

Throughout her journey, Tiers has been a beacon of hope and guidance, continuously called upon for advice and support during times of need and tragedy. Her extensive personal experience and keen familiarity with military operations have made her an invaluable resource within the Special Forces community.

Tiers’ dedication and contributions have been recognized with numerous awards and certifications, including the prestigious 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) “COL Maggie” Raye Volunteer Award, the Meritorious Public Service Medal, the Department of the Army Commander’s Award for Public Service, and the Department of the Army Certificate of Appreciation for Patriotic Service (second award). These accolades are a testament to Tiers’ unwavering commitment to serving her country and supporting those who serve.

As a prosecutor, public defender, and a private practice attorney, she worked daily with service members and their family members to seek justice. She is keenly aware of the struggles facing military families especially with her experience in practice areas such as family law and domestic violence matters.

Liz also has volunteered in the Judge Advocate General’s office on Pope Army Airfield and served in various other positions to include defense counsel and member of the Cumberland County Veterans Treatment Court where she provided resources to Veterans in crisis and legal representation to Veterans in the court system. Liz has been a military spouse for over twelve years and is the mother of three children. She understands the unique hardships that military families face. She is a lover of history, travel, learning new languages, and a self-professed foodie.

As a first generation American, Liz believes strongly in the American dream and feels privileged to live in the best country in the world. President Harry Truman once said, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in service to our country can never be repaid.” Liz is excited to be a part of OHF and serve the Special Operation Forces community and she is grateful for the opportunity to chip away at that debt in any way she can.

With over 15 years of dedicated service to the SOF community, Jim has worn multiple hats, starting as a Special Forces Engineer Sergeant before transitioning to roles as a contractor and ultimately as a Department of Defense civilian. Throughout his career, Jim has had the privilege of working closely with members from all branches of the SOF community, gaining invaluable insight into their unique needs and challenges. He considers it a great honor to continue serving this remarkable community in his current capacity.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Jim finds joy and fulfillment in his family life. Married to his wife Christina since 2008, they are proud parents to two boys. Their family remains actively involved in various extracurricular activities, with the kids participating in hockey, soccer, Boy Scouts, and the Navy Sea Cadets. Jim and Christina are dedicated to supporting their children’s interests and fostering their growth and development.

Jim’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from the University of Charleston and a Master of Business Administration from the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, VA. He has also earned certificates as a Certified Project Director, Master Resiliency Trainer, and Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

As Jim steps into his role with Operation Healing Forces, he brings with him a deep understanding of the needs of the SOF community, coupled with a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the lives of fellow service members and their families. His blend of personal experience, professional expertise, and unwavering dedication makes him a valuable addition to the OHF team, as they work together to provide essential support and healing opportunities to those who have sacrificed so much for our nation.

He transferred to Joint Mobile Ashore Support Team (JMAST) in Sigonella, Italy where his unit directly supported Presidential missions, Joint Task Force missions, EOD Mobile Unit 8, and support throughout the European Theater. During a deployment to Monrovia, Liberia he contracted Cerebral Malaria and encephalitis. He was transferred National Naval Hospital Bethesda for hospitalization and rehabilitation for 12 months.

After recovering, he was then selected for orders at the Naval Special Warfare schoolhouse, Naval Small Craft Instructional and Technical Training School (NAVSCIATTS) at Stennis Space Center, Mississippi in 2009. During his tour he was selected as the Command Sailor of the Year, Instructor of the Year, and NSW Group Four Sailor of the Year. He was also selected and initiated to the rank of Chief Petty Officer during this time.

In 2016, was transferred to Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Tampa, as the Operations Chief, where his team effectively managed travel, funding, and orders for over 600 Navy Reservists.

For his last tour of duty, he was hand-selected to work for the USSOCOM, Warrior Care Program. He began as the Southern Region Operations Officer, then became the NCOIC. He also supported the Warrior Care Program Benevolence and Adaptive Sports sections.

He is a graduate of The Navy Senior Enlisted Academy, qualified as an Expeditionary Warfare Specialist, Enlisted Surface Warfare, Naval Special Warfare Combat Service Support, Master Training Specialist, First Class Swimmer, and a Coxswain on several Naval Special Warfare Craft. His awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (7), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, as well as various joint, unit, and campaign awards.

In 2018 and 2019, he participated in the DoD Warrior Games as an athlete on Team SOCOM where he competed in powerlifting, rowing, shot put and discus. In addition, he also represented Team USA for the Invictus Games 2018 in Australia and 2022 in the Netherlands.

Phillip has earned his bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management and has a wonderful wife Sylvia of 20 years and three great sons Phill, Will, and Dill.

During his 12 years of service, including seven years in Special Forces, Jason led and trained Special Forces Operational Detachments deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He also played a critical role in numerous Joint Combined Exercise Training (JCET) missions within the United States Pacific Command (USPACOM). Additionally, with a decade of civilian support for Special Forces, Jason brings a wealth of experience and insight to his role at OHF.

Jason’s unique perspective as both a combat-deployed soldier and a stay-at-home military spouse enriches his ability to lead retreats for wounded, ill, injured, and fallen Special Operations Forces service members and their families. His personal experience of balancing military duty and family life makes him a compassionate and understanding leader. Jason currently resides in Olympia, WA, with his fiancée Sarah and their three daughters, where he continues to be a pivotal member of the OHF team.

He is a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received during combat action in Afghanistan.

As a vital member of the Operation Healing Forces team, Glen currently serves as a Retreat Project Manager. In this role, he is instrumental in facilitating therapeutic retreats that provide Special Operations Forces (SOF) members and their families with opportunities for mental, physical, and emotional healing. Glen’s unique perspective as a wounded member of the Special Forces community drives his ambition to provide life-changing therapeutic retreats specifically designed to help SOF couples reconnect, strengthening their bonds and enhancing their resilience amidst the unique challenges they face.

Glen’s work involves not only the logistical planning and execution of these retreats but also the cultivation of a supportive community where SOF warriors can forge deep, healing bonds with their peers. These connections are crucial in addressing the visible and invisible wounds of war, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support that extends beyond the retreat experience.

Through his consistent efforts, Glen reinforces and builds new relationships, establishing trust and rapport with SOF units worldwide. He collaborates closely with SOF unit leadership to identify and prioritize the needs of service members and their families, ensuring those with the greatest need receive the support and resources they deserve.

Glen’s commitment to the well-being of the SOF community reflects his deep understanding of the sacrifices made by these elite warriors and their families. His work with OHF is a testament to his dedication to their ongoing journey of healing and reintegration into family and civilian life.

Since becoming part of the SOF community in 2011, Kelsey has gained comprehensive knowledge of the unique lifestyle and daily challenges faced by Special Operators and their families. This firsthand understanding drives her dedication to supporting and uplifting her fellow SOF families.

In 2020, Kelsey and her husband had the opportunity to participate in OHF’s couples retreat to Aspen, CO. This transformative experience not only strengthened their marriage but also opened doors to new activities and opportunities that they had never before imagined. Inspired by the profound impact of OHF’s programs on her own life, Kelsey eagerly seized the opportunity to join the OHF team and give back to the community that she says has given her so much.

With dual bachelor’s degrees in business and marketing, Kelsey brings a strategic approach to her role, leveraging her academic background to craft tailored content and design creative digital strategies. However, it is her personal connection to the mission of OHF that truly fuels her passion. Her firsthand experience as an OHF participant and her unwavering dedication to the SOF community drive her efforts to elevate awareness of the extraordinary impact of Operation Healing Forces.

In her role as Social Media Manager, Kelsey is committed to leveraging the power of social media to amplify OHF’s mission, reach more SOF families in need, and provide them with the support and resources they deserve. With her unique blend of professional expertise and personal connection, Kelsey is honored to be a part of the OHF team and is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of Special Operations Forces and their families.

Jamie’s expertise in content management systems, design tools, and digital media platforms has allowed her to lead numerous impactful capital campaigns targeting individuals, groups, businesses, and communities.

Currently, Jamie serves Operation Healing Forces as the Campaigns and Events Manager, where she brings her exceptional graphic design and communications skills to serve the military community. As a military spouse, she has a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by service members and their families. Her creativity and strategic approach to campaign management have significantly enhanced OHF’s outreach and engagement efforts, ensuring that our events and initiatives are impactful and compelling.

Jamie strives for excellence and attributes her success to her professional relationships and her mindset of “giving more than you receive.” With this philosophy, she continually seeks to exceed expectations and foster meaningful connections within the military community. Her dedication to building strong, supportive networks and her unwavering commitment to service have been key drivers in her career, enabling her to effectively manage campaigns and events that have a lasting positive impact.

Her extensive experience in the military community has made her well-versed in its culture and the unique joys and struggles it entails.

Beginning her career in the veterinary world at the age of 15 as a veterinary technician, Lexy has since embarked on a meaningful journey. After college, she delved into medical research labs, including roles at the University of Virginia and San Diego State University, where she achieved notable accomplishments, such as creating the PIM1 Knockout mouse.

Lexy’s military spouse journey led her to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, where she served in various capacities, including as the MEDEVAC Defense Travel System (DTS) agent and later, stateside in Norfolk, VA, managing DTS travel for ships in the Atlantic fleet.

A pivotal moment in Lexy’s career came when she found herself working in a veterinary clinic at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, where she cared for military working dogs (MWDs). This experience ignited her passion for supporting MWDs, both during their active duty and retirement. Lexy has since collaborated with rescues and MWD sanctuaries worldwide to ensure these noble animals receive the retirement they richly deserve, coordinating reunions with former handlers and securing vital medical care coverage for these furry heroes.

Recognizing the challenges faced by MWDs in post-military life, including PTSD and mobility issues, Lexy remains dedicated to advocating for their well-being. She continues to work with MWD organizations, helping these remarkable dogs transition to a fulfilling life beyond their active-duty service.

Lexy currently resides in Tampa with her husband Erick, a Marine Corps veteran and prior K-9 Handler, their daughter Ryley, and son Grayson. Their family includes five rescue dogs and two rescue cats, all adopted from various parts of the world, embodying Lexy’s commitment to service and compassion for animals in need.