Marvin Donald “Don” DeLong III, USMC Corporal Don was born and raised in Houston, Texas, spending most of his life in and around the city, with some childhood years also spent in Alabama. Active, athletic, and happiest outdoors, Don grew up running, climbing, and playing every sport he could, football, basketball, and later softball as…
Brittney Melick LCpl, U.S. Marine Corps Resilient, determined, and quietly strong, Brittney Melick has spent much of her life adapting to challenges that would stop most people in their tracks. Growing up in Michigan, Brittney learned perseverance early, moving between schools, enduring family hardship, and even losing her home to a fire during childhood. Raised…
Mark Fitzpatrick Mark was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, where his childhood was filled with the simple joys of family, neighborhood friends, and plenty of time outdoors. He loved swimming, playing baseball, softball, and football, and by junior high had developed an interest in the family’s electrical company, a business he once thought he might…
Shelby Estocado Shelby Kawehi Estocado was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, and is proud of her Hawaiian and German roots. Athletics have always been at the center of her life. She excelled in softball and basketball at Bishop Gorman High School before continuing her softball career at the University of Tulsa, where she…
Rev. Arthur Mavrode, MSgt. USAF (Ret.) M.A. Arthur, has dedicated his life to service through ministry, education, and more than two decades in the United States Air Force. Growing up in Miami’s Little Havana, Arthur became bilingual at an early age, a gift that shaped his career as a cryptologic linguist and later as a…
Carlos Alberto Gonzalez of Appomattox, Virginia, has lived a life shaped by service, resilience, and faith. He began his journey of service in the United States Army, inspired by the events of September 11, 2001, and by his deep admiration for those who served before him. For Carlos, wearing the uniform was never just about…