Our Veterans
They served after 9/11 now we’re sharing their stories with you
Shawn Banzhaf
Sergeant First Class - Retired US Army Nat'l GuardFor twenty-one years Shawn served the United States in the Army National Guard. He retired as the acting First Sergeant of the 1057th Transportation Company. He is an Iraqi War Veteran, during which he earned the Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge while executing 100 combat missions in and around Baghdad, Ramadi and Fallujah. His unit, the 1074th Transportation Company, was awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation during their year long campaign (OIF 06-07).
Cheryl Rinehart
Cheryl Rinehart now works in higher education after recently separating from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and she serves in human resources doing work centered on policy and compliance.
US Marine Corp Veteran
Sergeant First Class - Retired US ArmyGrant Ross
Healing leads to scars. Scars fade, but always remain. These serve as life’s lessons bestowed upon us by our decisions. Our scars make us who we are. It is up to us to decide how we let them define us. It has been an honor to tell my story and more importantly it has been healing. Tell your stories, cry with your family, don’t scream in silence. These are the things we carry.
Sergeant First Class - Retired US ArmyEric Staton
Eric Staton is now working as a U.S. Contractor and spending time with his granddaughter. He continues to try to make up for lost birthdays, holidays, and special events with his family. He bought his retirement home and is looking forward to be a "When I was young" type of guy!
Melvin Cruz
Specialist - US ArmyKaren Cruz
Karen Cruz is dedicated to helping elderly veterans, ensuring that both they and their families receive care, support and the services they have rightfully earned and deserve.
Sergeant - US ArmyFather, Husband, Veteran and ASU Alum. He’s driven by a passion to support and uplift fellow veterans in any way he can.
Chief - US NavyCris Gibson
Cris Gibson continues to work with the US government. He continues the mission, to make the United States and the world at large, a safer place.
Lieutenant Commander - US NavyDanny Pierce
Danny Pierce is an associate at the law firm Buchanan, Ingersoll, and Rooney. He and his wife, Jes, own and operate Ale Tales Taproom in downtown San Diego.