Col. Ann Parker
“My mom, Col. Ann Parker is my hero. My mom is a retired United States Air Force nurse. Her whole career, she loved what she did. Always managed to not only be dedicated and hardworking, but humble. Growing up as an only child, and an Air Force brat, wasn’t always easy, but my mom made sure it was always an adventure for us. She has been my role model, my best friend, and someone I have looked up to, since day one. My mom is the most caring and selfless person I know, anyone in her life can testify to that. Whether she is doing volunteer work, or just going out of her way to make someone’s day, she is the little bit of sunshine everyone needs in their life. I could go on all day about how wonderful my mom is, but it still wouldn’t do justice for how much of an amazing person she is and how much she deserves the world. Thank you for not only your service Mom, but the love and joy you bring everyone around you.”

Josh Ragusa
“Josh is my family’s hero for many reasons. He is a decorated 11 year veteran, with four over seas deployments under his belt. Two of which were volunteer positions in Iraq and Afghanistan where he earned the Afghanistan Campaign Medal and Navy achievement Medal with valor for supporting Operation New Dawn. He served his country with selflessness and pride and continues to today by offering words of wisdom for younger and more experienced veterans for local events. He is dedicated to our presidency, our country and our family.”

Robert Duke Sr.
“Easy. My late father. Military Veteran and high school football coach. A quiet man who demanded hard work and respect from us and his players. I still run into his former players who tell me what a positive influence he was in their lives. Unfortunately, he passed away only 2 years into his coaching career. He left an undeniable legacy as a patriot, mentor and most importantly, husband and Dad. His final resting place is amongst many other Patriots at Quantico national cemetery.” 

Steven Geiger
“He is my hero because, for the last 12 years of marriage, he has always put our family it the best situation possible. Especially for our 3 little girls. One of our daughters has a rare Gene Mutation. 3 years of gene testing then formally being diagnosed with KAT6A which 103 world wide. He has been able to do both being a father and a military man. To support us and the Marines under his charge.”

James J. McMahon III
“My husband, Jim McMahon, was a Vietnam Veteran. He served during the height of that conflict and received several commendations for bravery under fire. His biggest battle was fought in recent years as he battled several types of cancer from exposure to Agent Orange. During his final months, he never complained and faced each setback with courage and grace. He was very proud of his service to his country, as am I, but I’m even prouder of his courage and dignity at the end of his life”

Lt Murphy
“He sacrificed his life to help out his 3 brothers. His act of heroism inspires me every day the values of honor, courage, and compliment. He is my American Hero.”

LCDR Bishop, USN
“A selfless leader. LCDR Bishop was my physics instructor. His relationship with the class and the wisdom he shared was invaluable.”

Colonel Jim Kanovse, US Army
“Jim Kanose is my Military Hero. He is my uncle and the reason I joined the military, came to the Naval Academy and service selected marine Corps Pilot. He served in the Army as a Mohawk pilot during Vietnam, earned the distinguished flying cross and worked in the Army Liaison office in DC with John McCain as enactor McCain worked in the Navy office. He is the most genuine leader I have ever met and I hope to carry on his legacy. “

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Dishart (Ret.)
“My uncle and Godfather served the United States Air Force as an F-16 fighter pilot. It was a dream he has as a young boy. He served in a multitude of other billets as well. The marjority of his life was given in service to the nation. He died from ALS as a young man at 56 in June of 2015. He is buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetary. He had a lot more to contribute to tHe nation but couldn’t make it that far. Rest in Peace.”

Jerome Tannebaum
“He was a first line Marine that served in Vietnam for 4 tours. He once had to hold off an ambush of over 15 soldiers and one aided his troops to safety. He’s not only a true soldier in America, but he is a marine. Roll Tide!”

Thank you for sharing your #BudHeroes with us!