Every Warrior

Bravo Zulu

Real Stories of Real Influence

Meet Kenny Bish

September 14, 2021 • Bravo Zulu

We love it when Warriors do amazing things, but what really speaks volumes about the character of a Warrior is when they give the credit to other Warriors for the amazing things that those Warriors do. Kenny Bish, currently serving downrange, has not only dealt with and owned his own story, but he also continues to prove his leadership abilities through the way he selflessly serves, cares for those around him, and gives credit where it is due. Well done Kenny, well done. This is what he had to say on his Social Media platforms recently. "As most of you know I conducted a mission to help evacuees escape Kabul, Afghanistan at the end of August. For almost two weeks I was extremely lucky to be attached to a person that I now see as family, but also as a leader and mentor. This picture was taken as we were stuck in a holding pattern above Ramstein AFB for 2 1/2 hours. A woman passed out after breastfeeding her infant baby and stopped breathing. My brother TSgt Moquete immediately reacted by grabbing oxygen off the interior of the aircraft and began resuscitating the woman. Performing life-saving skills. Layed her on the ground, placed her legs on an aircraft chair, and turned her head to the side. The woman's breathing became shallow as the aircraft landed. I stood by as the loadmaster had to land the aircraft and I still had to do my job doing flight denial. Upon landing he carries the woman off the aircraft to seek immediate and further medical assistance at the fire truck; probably saving her life. It wasn’t the fact that he did this act but how fast and how much he cared for these refugees that we had only picked up from Kabul no less than 9 hours prior. I grabbed this photo as I was so proud to call this man a leader of mine. These are the unsung heroes that unfortunately won’t receive the gratitude they whole heartily deserve. This is the reason I still serve because of the man standing next to me in Sgt Moquete. Pray for this woman and the rest of the Afghanistan Citizens who escaped that day."

Meet Bree Carroll

September 10, 2021 • Bravo Zulu

We are so proud of our friend Bree Carroll. Bree joined our team a few years ago to help us create the ultimate experience at our events and has become a great advisor for our team since. In 2020 Bree was recognized by Armed Forces Insurance as the Air Force Spouse of the year for 2020-2021. The week she was recognized in DC with Branch winners from all branches of service for all her amazing work and shared about her platform. While Bree is an Engineer, Event Planner, and podcast host (Hearts & Stripes), she has recently founded an initiative to address Military Marriages. This August Bree celebrated the 2nd Annual Military Marriage Day with thousands of military couples around the globe serving in all branches and duty statuses. Military Marriages are unique and Bree wanted to work with DOD, Non-profits and others to increase resources and understanding of what it takes to thrive in this environment. The AFI Military Spouse of the Year Program recognizes military spouses around the world doing great things for our installations, our families, and our communities. We are honored to have Bree a part of Striker Nation and Every Warrior! Bree’s support team is her husband, Donovan (attached to AFGSC Staff) and her 3 amazing kids. We are so proud of everything you are doing and cannot wait to see what you do next Bree!

Thirteen Heroes

August 28, 2021 • Bravo Zulu

U.S. Marine, Sgt Johanny Rosario (25) U.S. Marine, Cpl Hunter Lopez (22) U.S. Marine, LCpl Kareem Nikoui (22) U.S. Marine, LCpl Rylee McCollum (20) U.S. Marine, LCpl Jared Schmitz (20) U.S. Marine, LCpl David Lee Espinoza (20) U.S. Navy, Maxton Soviak (20) U.S. Marine, SSgt Taylor Hoover (31) U.S. Marine, Cpl Daegan Page (23) U.S. Army, SSG Ryan Knauss (23) U.S. Marine, Cpl Humberto Sanchez (22) U.S. Marine, Sgt Nicole Gee (23) U.S. Marine, Ricky Thompson (21) The names above represent 13 lives given in the ultimate display of selflessness, one that every Warrior knows is a possibility. Five of these names found their way onto birth certificates the same year the war in Afghanistan started. 20 years later, life ended with the end of the war. 11 were men, 2 were women...separated by only a span of 11 years. Several had posted pictures from their deployment within hours of the bombing. Giving candy to children. Holding an Afghan infant. Standing with fellow troops. Even a status update of an expectant father. Talking about his military service, one family member of one of these Warriors said "He wanted to be in a situation where he actually made a difference." We believe that can be said of every life represented here. Their stories, their lives, like countless others before them, are true stories of selflessness, bravery, courage, love, and legacy. Their stories are stories that will forever be etched in the hearts and lives of those around them. And because of the difference they made in those hearts, we say "Well Done." Whether an expectant father, the son of a police officer, the son of a medic, an older brother, a younger sister, or any other form of relational bond imaginable, the shock, disbelief, horror, sadness, sorrow, anger and grief are only evidence of lives that truly influenced others.

Meet Jamar Blue

July 7, 2021 • Bravo Zulu

In a world where there is still constant divide, conflict, and a push for everyone to not see each other eye to eye or for who they really are, there are leaders out there that have a vision of a better tomorrow. A vision which speaks hope into the hearts of many who see the state of the world for a chance for healing, uniting, and making everyone feel like they are a part of something bigger than themselves. Meet Jamar Blue. One of the leaders solely responsible for this shift of patterns and mindsets at Barksdale AFB. Jamar Blue is the Diversity and Inclusion Leader for the 2nd Bomb Wing. In the short amount of time since arriving at Barksdale he saw a need for a change to happen in the society of those in the military. Even though working in the military means you get to meet many people from all types of backgrounds and heritages, it doesn’t necessarily mean they feel involved or like a part of a family. Jamar has set out to change this mindset among everyone he meets and talks with. He cares deeply about what others have say and stand up for and he will go to bat with you every time you need someone in your corner. By leading the Diversity and Inclusion team he has already held quite a few events and been a part of many conversations that have been needed in todays Air Force and other military branches. He and his team have started a wave of change that has been long overdue. Jamar Blue is a man that leads by example and has a heart for caring for and lifting up others while also helping them create their own foundation to stand on. From the EW family we just want to say a huge thank you and say that we are truly proud to know you and your team. Keep doing what you are doing and creating a space for others to learn from and lead how you do. - Garrett

Meet Eleazar and Halie Hernandez

July 1, 2021

"Chemo complete….Cancer in remission….Ring that bell SrA Eleazar Hernandez!!! Knuckle…Busters!" -Chief Chaddick The first five words of the above sentence say it all. Diagnosed with cancer several months back and undergoing an extreme and aggressive treatment plan has been the theme of these two Warriors lives. Today, July 1, 2021, Eleazar got to ring the bell signaling his final chemo treatment. Surrounded by his healthcare providers and the Warriors that make up part of the 2nd Maintenance Squadron at Barksdale...complete with Base and Squadron leadership, Eleazar and Halie celebrated this milestone with tears of joy and the most sincere humility and gratitude I think I've ever seen. We know that the lives of many many people are impacted by the word cancer daily. Outcomes spread from one extreme to the other. We sat down several times, pressed through tears, talked about hopes and dreams but also about reality and even the "what ifs". Together, these two have set an example of not only what it looks like to overcome the least expected, but to overcome together. The selfless love of a Warrior spouse is on display constantly through Halie, who not only loves her husband, but is also learning vital life lessons of strength, leadership, perseverance, and so much more. Together, both of them are writing a story that will impact the lives of many many individuals from here on out. Whether they realize it or not, the ripple effects of the last year of their lives will be the reason why Warriors in the future find the strength they need to face cancer. They have never claimed to be anything special, but we believe that is what makes them just that, special. While we always remember and honor those who's outcome may have been different than their story, the humility and genuine goodness of these two Warriors is one that will carry the spirit of every single Warrior who has faced cancer in the past and who will face it in the future, whether they are a survivor physically or a survivor in our hearts and memories. Well done you two. Not for kicking the crap out of cancer, rather for leading the way you have through it. Your maintenance family loves you. Your EW family loves you. And your Warrior family loves you! Among many others! -Trey

Meet Brandon Kitchens

June 24, 2021

This past month, we got to tell you about a Library Box that was just installed at Barksdale AFB. While this was done in honor of , it was made possible by the talent of this man right here, Brandon Kitchens. Every detail of this library box was designed and hand crafted by his hands. While his talent and dedication to excellence goes far and wide, his heart is the part of him that goes deep. Brandon is a man who truly cares. His heart is huge, and it leaves ripple effects wherever it leads him. From surprising us with our very first hand made wooden sign that hangs in our Family Center today and leading the charge for a vehicle wrap for a truck that was donated to our cause, to advocating for many Warriors under his care and fighting for the own wellbeing of his family, Brandon's heart is one that is admirable. Selfless service are a couple of words embody who he is. He will do anything for anybody, probably before he is even asked. Why? Because he simply cares!

Meet Phil Myers

June 7, 2021

When you just can't keep living life the way you've been living, you have two choices... Our friend Phil Myers is a former Navy EOD Technician and is dedicated to being a voice that serves to bring awareness to ongoing and relevant issues within the military relating to mental health. You see, Phil came face to face with his own choice a few months back and he made the choice to fight for change. At what only could be described at a life changing intersection, standing there with nothing but the clothes on his back and the thoughts in his head, he chose to take a step. And he has been stepping ever since. How? You might ask. By the fact that his first step was on that landed him on the Appalachian Trail, and every single step after has led him on the hike of his life. Currently, he is just over halfway through his roughly four month journey. Why the journey? Because, after everything depression, alcoholism, bi-polar, hospital stays, etc. he decided it was time to truly find himself, to fight for his own healing, to fight for the healing of those around him with similar experiences. His public journey is one that is inspiring not just us, but others who may be silently watching every step he takes. Phils honesty, integrity, and vulnerability are a foundational example of what we mean when we say "Influence your world" and his willingness to put his experiences out there for all to see, risking everything for his own good and the good of other Warriors who are struggling. Phil came to us as a member of our current Warrior Advisory Team, and little did we know how much more he would bring to the table. With all of his experiences, all of the pain, all of the heartache he has faced, even WANTING to give http://up...he has not. He keeps fighting. He keeps moving. And we are stoked to see what happens in and through him as he comes out on the other side of this season. This is a post from his FB Page: What if I told you I gave up? But you wouldn’t know because I hid all of this behind my larger than life smile that so many know me for. I tried. I was ready to end my life, and have wanted to several times over these past three years. I didn't want to, but I couldn’t see any other way through the pain, or see that things would ever get better. Almost overdosed in 2019 and I still don't know how I woke up, diagnosed with PTSD, anxiety, Bipolar Depression II, on top of drinking so much it lead to a ruptured stomach ulcer that I also hid, and even showed up to work while going through withdrawals, again hiding it to not draw attention or appear weak. For some reason I’m still here, and I’m hoping to find the answers to why and how I fit into the world on this 2,200 mile walk in the woods. I'm out here hiking to hopefully find the combination that’ll help me keep a promise that was made to change and not become a number (even though the odds with PTSD & Bipolar are stacked against me). With every step I’m not only finding what happens when you keep going, but hope to give others hope that things can get better if they keep going too. Check out Phil on FB and IG: https://www.facebook.com/phil.myers.334 https://www.instagram.com/amanicadventure/

Meet Josh White

May 4, 2021

Looking for a picture of what it looks like to lead by example? Look no further than this man right here! Josh is a Warrior serving in the panhandle of Florida, but that is just the start of who he is. When you look behind the name tape and rank insignia, you find a man who's heart is for others, and a heart who wants to help others share their story. When it comes to stories, he created the HeroFront podcast several months back, and in one of the first few episodes, guess who shares their own story? Yep, Josh. Complete with his struggles with alcohol and how his life has changed recently, he leads the way with his own very real and very authentic vulnerability. When asked why he started the podcast, he simply said that he saw a need and wanted to do something about it. This is the description of the HeroFront Podcast: "Interviewing members from the top echelons of the DoD, down to the wingman sitting right next to you, we will hear stories of resilience, leadership, and purpose." Josh is much more than just a Warrior who does a podcast though, he is one who truly sees people and cares for their overall well being. Humble, family first, kind, generous, http://leader...just a few words that truly describe him. Check out the HeroFront Podcast: https://linktr.ee/herofront

What is Bravo Zulu?

April 15, 2021

Formerly known as our "World of Awesome," Bravo Zulu stands to be one way where we say "Well Done" to our Warriors who are out there influencing their world. With that being said, let us ask you few question! Know a Warrior that is rocking it out there? Know a Warrior that has an amazing story? Have a brother or sister in arms that you want to just brag on cause they are amazing? Is there someone you want to recognize for silently bring a servant leader? Then we want to know them too! > THE COMBINATION OF THE BRAVO AND ZULU NAUTICAL SIGNAL FLAGS IS A NAVAL SIGNAL, TYPICALLY CONVEYED BY FLAGHOIST OR VOICE RADIO, MEANING "WELL DONE" WITH REGARD TO ACTIONS. We want to recognize stories of your friends who are letting their actions speak. Let us say "Well Done," right here our App, at http://everywarrior.org, and on our social media platforms. There is never too much good we can spread. Click on the SPREAD THE GOOD button and answer a few questions to tell us their story. You're not nominating them for anything, you're just helping make sure their influence shines through! This comes with no prizes, no special pics, not extra http://pomp...just real stories of real Warriors doing a job well done out there in their everyday lives!

Meet Phil Myers

June 7, 2021

Meet Audri Fanning

April 22, 2021

Audri grew up a military kid, the oldest of 10, moving to installations throughout her life but calling Florida home. It was at Maxwell AFB where she met a super cute lifeguard and was engaged just before he left for San Antonio and Basic Training in early 2018. Minutes after she turned 18 and Nathan had been stationed at Barksdale AFB, Audri married Airman Nathan Fanning and moved to Louisiana. Audri worked at a local gym and with several great offices while working to complete a degree. Audri always longed to join the Air Force, and in the Fall she took her oath next to a B52 static display on Barksdale AFB with her husband by her side. Today, Audri graduates Basic Training and is officially Airman Fanning. She will be in Biloxi for Tech school the next few months and will be home to the 307th soon. Military Child. Military Spouse. Airmen. Reservist. Warrior.

Meet Simeon Purvis

February 19, 2021

Yesterday morning, I messaged Simeon just to make sure him and his family were taken care of. His reply to me was this, "No power/heat or water over here on East side but we’re alright for now. Family is huddled under blankets keeping warm in one room, I’m out towing people out of ditches so they can get to Hoban Hall. I’ve got a Jeep with 4WD and mud tires, heat works fine so if people need rides or help, send them my way." He, like many of our Warriors who could, were out there taking care of those around them in the ice storm we have experienced all week. He never asked for ANYTHING in return, except for more people to help, because this was his text to me last night "Let me know if you get any calls for people being stuck, needing groceries, or transport." Simeon just kept wanting to serve, and because of his selflessness, there are no telling how many military families were helped. And in between our conversations, I also know he was making sure his wife and son were taken care of as well. Stories like his is why we just released what we are calling "Everyday Heroes Making A Difference," and you can now tell us about more men and women who have helped you during these storms, just like Simeon has helped others. That can be found on the App under The Latest.

Meet Cory Sanden

February 5, 2021

Cory works so hard on and off the flight line. Cory's awesome because even with his shift changing every few weeks, he still finds time to volunteer. And he doesn't slack off when he volunteers. He works hard and fast and gets it done well. "He is dedicated to his passions." His nominee said, "It's my favorite thing about him." He's passionate about his job, his hobbies, and his family. He gets to the gym every day and encourages people there. He loves bowling and pushing his teammates to be better. Serving others is something he does often, especially if it's someone who needs yard work or just a hand around the house. Cory, we are proud of you! We know you may not hear it often, but your peers and friends are appreciative of how generous and hardworking you are. Even on the hard and grueling days, keep leading others with your servants heart!

Meet Piper Mills

January 27, 2021

Piper is an amazing girl with the sweetest heart! Even though her family moves around with the US Air Force, Piper has no trouble adjusting to her new schools and making friends. Her bubbly personality is contagious. Piper was Student of the Year 2020-2021 at her school. She received a prize basket and shared it will all of the other student finalist. On a separate occasion this year, Piper won a new bike and gave it to her friend who didn’t have one. Now they are able to ride around the neighborhood together. For being so young, Piper has continued to do many good deeds for everyone around her. Piper is a shining example of what it looks like to be kind and giving. We are so proud of you!!! -Julie Cooley

Meet Brandon Westlake

January 29, 2021

When we created the Bravo Zulu concept, Brandon Westlake was already on my mind to be recognized. He quietly does FANTASTIC work at the 340WPS as NCOIC of the Commander's Support Staff, and will "take his talents" to Vermont soon. He won't toot his own horn, you won't see him hanging plaque after plaque for his actions. But if you needed a hand at the food http://bank...he is the first one I'd call. If you need help hauling http://something...he was there. If you needed a patient opinion from a level headed http://warrior...he is your man. I'm proud of you Brandon! -Eric