Seats for Soldiers Program | Raiders.com

Le'Toi Adams is a U.S. Army veteran who served as an 88M truck driver, and embodied strength and resilience throughout her military career. After her discharge, she worked as a security officer until a spinal cord injury in 2011, caused by non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, left her paralyzed from the waist down. Struggling with depression and self-doubt, she withdrew from daily life, relying on her family for support. In 2015, she sought help through the VA healthcare system, embracing physical therapy, group sessions, and counseling, which set her on the path of reclaiming her independence.

Her turning point came in 2016 when she discovered the Triumph Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping individuals with spinal cord injuries thrive. Through Triumph, she was introduced to adaptive sports, sparking a passion for wheelchair basketball. She went on to compete for four years at the University of Whitewater, earning a bachelor's degree in human health performance and recreation with a minor in coaching. Her dedication and perseverance were honored with the Spirit of the Game Award at the 2021 National Veterans Wheelchair Games.

Today, Le'Toi is a fierce advocate for adaptive sports and disability empowerment, using her journey to inspire and uplift others facing similar challenges. From overcoming adversity to excelling in competitive athletics, she proves that resilience and determination can redefine possibilities.

Staff Sergeant Kaili Bach has dedicated eight years of service to the United States Air Force, continuing a proud family tradition of military excellence. She is stationed at Nellis Air Force Base as a member of the elite 820th RED HORSE Squadron, where she plays a critical role in expeditionary engineering operations. Recently, she completed a deployment to Guam, where she helped establish the 513th Expeditionary RED HORSE Squadron at Andersen AFB. During her time overseas, she earned recognition for her outstanding performance, receiving the 15th Air Force NCO of the Quarter award and commendations for humanitarian relief efforts following Typhoon Mawar.

SSgt Bach's leadership and logistical expertise have been instrumental in ensuring mission success. She managed a $40 million budget, streamlined acquisition processes, and led her team in expediting critical purchase requests that supported a $2.8 million vehicle fleet and a $3.5 million airfield project. Her dedication to excellence also extends beyond her official duties—she has spearheaded morale events for her fellow Airmen and organized a base-wide golf tournament to raise scholarship funds for the Society of American Military Engineers.

Her exceptional contributions have been recognized with multiple awards, including the 820th RED HORSE Squadron NCO of the Year, two Air Force Commendation Medals, and an Achievement Medal for her humanitarian efforts. SSgt Bach's unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and teamwork continues to make a lasting impact on her unit and the broader Air Force community.

A United States Air Force veteran, Louie Borrayo honorably served from 1999 to 2013 in the Security Forces field, completing four deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Since transitioning out of the military, Louie has dedicated the past decade to serving fellow veterans, focusing on those experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing stable housing. As the Outreach Coordinator for U.S. VETS Las Vegas, he leads a team in street outreach and community engagement, working tirelessly to connect veterans with housing, employment services, peer support, and medical care.

Beyond his professional work, Louie is deeply committed to supporting his fellow veterans through Merging Vets and Players, where he fosters camaraderie and resilience among former service members through fitness and mentorship. A strong believer in personal challenges, he and his wife, Kristina—an Army veteran—regularly take on Spartan and Tough Mudder races, embracing the spirit of perseverance.

Louie also collaborates with The Mission Continues, spearheading initiatives that bring together veteran organizations to support the local community. A dedicated leader, husband, and father, Louie's passion for service and uplifting others continues to make a profound impact on veterans in need.

Staff Sergeant Veronique "VeVe" Briggs honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1998 to 2008 as a Finance Specialist, where she played a critical role in managing financial operations. A California native and Huntington Beach High School alum, she earned numerous accolades during her service, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon. She also holds an A.A.S. in Financial Management from the Community College of the Air Force.

Since transitioning out of the military, Veronique has continued her commitment to service and leadership. She currently works in Accounts Payable at Ellis Island Hotel, Pub & Casino in Las Vegas and actively engages in community service as a Veteran Service Coordinator, organizing and leading impactful service projects. Her dedication extends to mentoring and coaching youth sports, guided by her deep faith and belief in shaping the next generation.

Veronique has volunteered with the USO, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and The Mission Continues, an organization that has helped her rediscover purpose and confidence in civilian life. With her infectious positivity and passion for giving back, she continues to uplift her fellow veterans and her community, embodying the spirit of resilience and service.

Senior Master Sergeant Jordan E. Clark has dedicated over two decades of service to the United States Air Force and the Nevada Air National Guard. Currently serving as the Traffic Management Superintendent for the 152nd Logistics Readiness Squadron at the Nevada Air National Guard Base in Reno, he oversees vital transportation operations, ensuring the efficiency of cargo movement, vehicle dispatch, and passenger travel support. Throughout his career, he has played a critical role in logistics, managing over $136 million in equipment and vehicles, and providing leadership in hazardous material management, decontamination operations, and civil support efforts.

A decorated leader, SMSgt Clark deployed to Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, in 2020, where he managed over 50 Airmen across three Air Force Specialty Codes and facilitated the recoupment of over $6 million for the Department of Defense. His expertise has been instrumental in real-world missions, including responses to hazardous material incidents such as the 2008 Ricin response in Las Vegas and the 2012 Anthrax white powder mailings.

In addition to his military excellence, SMSgt Clark is committed to continuous learning, maintaining a 3.8 GPA as he pursues a bachelor's degree in Logistics and Transportation Management. His extensive list of accolades includes the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Force and Army Commendation Medals, and the Nevada Air National Guard Senior NCO of the Year award.

With a long-lasting commitment to service, leadership, and mentorship, SMSgt Clark embodies resilience and excellence, making a lasting impact both in uniform and in his community.

Master Sergeant Berenice Domenzain-Rodriguez has served in the Nevada National Guard since 2006, beginning her career in the Army National Guard before transitioning to the Air National Guard in 2012. She serves as the Operations Support Superintendent for the 232d Combat Training Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base, where she provides leadership and mentorship to the Command Support and Operations Support Staff. Her role is vital in supporting Operational Test, F-35 maintenance, and Virtual Test and Training missions as part of a Total Force Integrated unit.

MSgt Domenzain-Rodriguez has earned numerous awards for her exceptional service, including the Air and Space Commendation Medal, the Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal, and the Nevada Meritorious Service Ribbon. She is also a certified victim advocate, having completed the Department of Defense Sexual Assault Advocate Certification Program to further support service members and their families.

Beyond her military service, MSgt Domenzain-Rodriguez is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She has been instrumental in supporting veterans at the Las Vegas Veterans Stand Down, helping provide critical resources such as healthcare, housing assistance, and job support to over 400 veterans in need. She also played a key role in organizing a Southern Nevada Air National Guard recruiting event at a Las Vegas Aviators baseball game, leading a team of volunteers to engage thousands of attendees and promote military career opportunities.

Her dedication to service extends beyond her own contributions—she has instilled the same spirit of volunteerism in her family, earning recognition as the NVANG Child & Youth Program Family of the Year for two consecutive years. Whether in uniform or in the community, MSgt Domenzain-Rodriguez is a tireless advocate for others, always working to create a positive impact wherever she serves.

Sergeant Major (Ret.) Karen Estabrook dedicated 26 years of service to the Army National Guard of the U.S., leading with distinction and commitment. Now retired, she continues to serve her fellow veterans and the broader community as an active member of Women Veterans of Nevada, Impact Las Vegas, and as the hands-on Chairperson of the Nevada Veterans Foundation. Her leadership and advocacy have had a lasting impact on veteran support initiatives across the state.

Karen is a tireless volunteer, devoting nearly every day to supporting the Las Vegas Fisher House, where the foundation delivers resource support enabling the Fisher House to provide comfort and care to the families of hospitalized service members and veterans. Her ability to secure funding through grant writing has been instrumental in sustaining nonprofit programs that assist veterans in need. In recognition of her dedication, she was honored as News 3's Salute Our Troops Veteran of the Month in November 2023.

A natural leader, Karen ensures that every team she works with is empowered and aligned with their mission. Her deep compassion for veterans and active-duty personnel drives her to create lasting change, always pushing forward to strengthen the community. Whether through hands-on service, strategic planning, or advocacy, Karen remains a force for good, ensuring that no veteran is left behind.

Sergeant First Class (Ret.) Matthew Green dedicated 29 years of service to the United States Army, where he served in multiple roles, including Intelligence Analyst, Recruiter, and Ground Liaison Officer. A native of Mason City, Iowa, his distinguished military career was marked by deployments in support of major operations, earning him numerous accolades, including three Bronze Service Stars on his Iraq Campaign Medal, the Combat Action Badge, and multiple commendations for outstanding service. His final assignment brought him to Creech Air Force Base in Las Vegas, where he served as a Reconnaissance Liaison Detachment NCO before retiring in 2020.

Since transitioning out of uniform, SFC Green has continued his mission of service as a board member of the Kline Veterans Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing veteran homelessness. His leadership, problem-solving skills, and unwavering commitment to helping fellow veterans have played a crucial role in expanding resources and providing direct support to at-risk individuals. There is no task too small or challenge too great—he brings the same tenacity and teamwork to his community efforts that he did throughout his military career.

Beyond his work with the Kline Veterans Fund, Matthew actively volunteers his time assisting seniors and disabled individuals with home repairs and maintenance, ensuring those in need have safe and stable living conditions. His hands-on approach and relentless drive to give back embody the true spirit of selfless service, making a lasting impact on both the veteran community and beyond.

A U.S. Air Force veteran and co-founder of Forgotten Not Gone, Kelley Guidry has dedicated her life to ensuring that no veteran is left to suffer in silence. Inspired by a family history of military service, she enlisted with a desire to see the world and forge meaningful connections. During her time in the Air Force, she found structure, camaraderie, and purpose—qualities she now instills in her work supporting fellow veterans. While serving as a Vehicle Maintenance Control and Analysis Journeyman with the 820th Red Horse Squadron, she was recognized with the USAF Achievement Medal for her distinguished service.

Following her transition out of the military, Kelley faced her own struggles with physical pain, misdiagnosed medical conditions, and the emotional toll of service. Her journey to healing led her to co-found Forgotten Not Gone alongside her husband and fellow veteran, Peter "Kepha" Guidry. What began as a simple way to reconnect with life through cycling evolved into a nonprofit that has helped countless veterans combat isolation, depression, and PTSD. Through her leadership, Forgotten Not Gone has flourished, earning recognition as the 2024 Nonprofit of the Year by the Vegas Chamber Military Affairs Committee and receiving an official proclamation from the Mayor and Las Vegas City Council, declaring April 17th as Forgotten Not Gone Day in the city.

Kelley's unwavering commitment to "service before self" drives her mission to make every veteran feel heard, valued, and supported. She believes that life after military service can be just as fulfilling—if not more—when veterans are given the resources and opportunities to thrive. With passion, resilience, and an unshakable belief in the power of community, she continues to lead the charge in helping veterans reclaim their lives.

Joseph Hauk's journey is one of resilience, service, and unwavering determination. Enlisting in the U.S. Navy at just 16 years old, he trained as an Aviation Structural Mechanic and was assigned to the A-6 Intruders attack squadron aboard the USS Coral Sea. His deployments took him throughout Asia, after which he continued his naval career aboard the USS Enterprise (CVN 65)—America's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier—and later the USS America. After four years of service, he transitioned to civilian life in Chicago, where he built a successful career in the airfreight industry, rising to Vice President of Sales before eventually launching his own company. What started as a two-truck operation rapidly expanded into a fleet of 18 trucks with nationwide contracts before he eventually sold the business and pursued higher education on the GI Bill.

Even after leaving military and corporate life, Joseph's drive to help others remained steadfast. One of his proudest achievements was leading a fundraising campaign for a young girl in need of a kidney transplant, raising over $40,000 in just nine weeks through the Children's Organ Transplant Association (COTA). He continues to give back by volunteering with Nevada PVA (Paralyzed Veterans of America) whenever his health allows.

Despite facing multiple injuries, Joseph never let challenges slow him down, working tirelessly until the VA recognized him as 100% disabled. His enduring spirit, deep commitment to teamwork, and selfless dedication to his community embody the true meaning of service—both in and out of uniform.

Retired Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Chris Jachimiec devoted 20 years to the United States Air Force, serving in critical leadership roles throughout his career. A veteran of Operation Southern Watch and the war in Afghanistan, he spent over 15 years stationed in Las Vegas, where he shaped the next generation of Airmen through mentorship and operational excellence. His dedication earned him three Meritorious Service Medals, three Air Force Commendation Medals, and the Air Force Achievement Medal, among numerous other accolades. He was also recognized as Air Combat Command First Sergeant of the Year (2016) and United States Air Force Warfare Center NCO of the Year (2012), demonstrating his leadership at the highest levels.

After his medical retirement in 2020, Chris transformed personal adversity into a mission of advocacy and support for fellow service members. Following the tragic loss of his brother, a Marine veteran, to suicide in 2017, he dedicated himself to mental health awareness and suicide prevention. As a distinguished member of both the Governor's and Mayor's Suicide Prevention Challenge teams, he works to create real change in veteran mental health initiatives. His commitment to this cause also led him to work with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), providing compassionate support to military families dealing with loss. His advocacy reached a national audience through his participation in the Ad Council's "Service Never Stops" campaign, which promotes responsible firearm storage as a means of suicide prevention.

Beyond his advocacy, Chris is also a champion in adaptive sports, competing in the 2022 Department of Defense Warrior Games, where he claimed multiple gold medals. His resilience, both physically and mentally, embodies the spirit of perseverance. Whether leading on the battlefield, mentoring fellow veterans, or competing as an athlete, Chris continues to demonstrate that service extends far beyond active duty—it is a lifelong commitment to supporting others and strengthening the veteran community.

Master Sergeant Ashley T. Jones serves as the Development Advisor at Nellis Air Force Base, overseeing professional development for 64,000 Total Force military personnel across multiple bases, wings, and units. She also leads Air Combat Command's largest First Term Enlisted Course, ensuring new Airmen transition seamlessly into operational roles. Since enlisting in 2007, she has held high-impact positions, including managing the Air Force's busiest Career Development team at Ramstein Air Base during the COVID-19 pandemic and supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn as a Casualty Liaison.

A highly decorated leader, MSgt Jones has earned the Air Combat Command General Billy J. Boles Mentorship Award, United States Warfare Center Senior Force Support SNCO of the Year, and Vegas Chamber Military Affairs Committee SNCO of the Year (2024). She revitalized the Total Force Development Team, creating mentorship programs for 17,000 service members annually, and led Nellis AFB's first Joint Leadership Symposium, impacting 64,000 personnel, and earning ACC's "Goldfein-Wright Inclusive Leadership" Team Award.

Beyond her military duties, she spearheaded a $3 million scholarship fundraiser and organized a Women's History Month program for 1,200 participants. A dedicated mentor, she has personally guided 2,600 Airmen, shaping multiple award-winning leaders. Through visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to service, MSgt Jones continues to elevate Airmen and strengthen the Air Force community.

Technical Sergeant Christopher Leung serves as the Mental Health Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge for the 99th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base, where he leads a team of 23 active-duty Airmen, seven civilians, and five contractors. His work ensures that 68,500 TRICARE beneficiaries receive critical mental health services, including psychiatry, psychology, substance abuse prevention, and family advocacy. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, TSgt Leung enlisted in 2016, initially serving in Aircrew Flight Equipment before transitioning into Mental Health, where he has made a lasting impact as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.

A highly decorated leader, TSgt Leung has been personally recognized by the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force and two U.S. Senators for his outstanding contributions. His achievements include being named Air Force Medical Service Mental Health NCO of the Year, 99th Air Base Wing NCO of the Year, and receiving the Lance P. Sijan Award. Under his leadership, his team earned the Medical Group Team of the Year, a testament to his ability to foster teamwork, development, and recognition for his airmen.

Beyond his military duties, TSgt Leung is deeply committed to community service, volunteering with his local church, The Shade Tree shelter for domestic violence survivors, and the Air Force Sergeants Association. He plays an active role in fundraisers, food, and clothing drives, ensuring support reaches those in need. Known for his infectious positivity and ability to inspire those around him, TSgt Leung continues to lead with compassion, ensuring both his airmen and the broader community receive the care and recognition they deserve.

A U.S. Army veteran and dedicated entrepreneur, Brandon Mills is the owner and operator of Total Promotion Company, a certified veteran-owned business specializing in branded marketing and apparel in Las Vegas. Leveraging his background in business development and community engagement, he has positioned his company as a trusted provider for local businesses and organizations. Brandon is also a proud father, staying actively involved in his children's music and athletic pursuits.

With a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from the University of Nevada, Reno, Brandon's commitment to public service extends beyond business. He ran for Nevada State Senate, advocating for stronger legislation to improve the lives of Nevadans. His dedication to community involvement is reflected in his deep ties to veteran and business organizations, where he fosters collaboration and support for a wide range of initiatives.

Beyond his professional achievements, Brandon leads by example in community service. He opened his business as a distribution site for holiday gifts for children with incarcerated fathers and grandfathers and facilitated a Back-to-School drive to provide essential supplies to local students. Known for his friendly demeanor and unwavering support of others, Brandon is a true ambassador for both the veteran and business communities, always finding ways to uplift and empower those around him.

A U.S. Army veteran, Keith Olson served on Active Duty as an Infantry Paratrooper, serving multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan in support of OEF/OIF. His 15-year military career (1999–2014) earned him numerus medals and awards, Keith was also selected as the Nevada Army National Guard Noncommissioned Officer of the Year (2010).

Now, Keith is the Program Director for The Charlie Mike Foundation, helping veterans transition into civilian careers, and serves as Director of Operations for Executive Option, a veteran-owned IT consulting firm. Previously, he worked with the Salvation Army, supporting at-risk veterans.

An active volunteer with The Mission Continues, Keith contributes to food security efforts as well as facility and neighborhood cleanups in collaboration with U.S. VETS and The LGBTQ Center. His dedication to service and veteran advocacy continues to create lasting impact in Las Vegas and beyond.

A U.S. Marine Corps combat infantry veteran and first-generation American, Isaac Saldivar has dedicated his post-service life to mental health advocacy and community support for fellow veterans. After serving two combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan during OEF/OIF, he rose to the rank of Sergeant and Squad Leader, earning the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal and Navy Unit Commendation for his leadership.

Committed to empowering veterans, Isaac played a founding role in the Las Vegas chapter of Merging Vets and Players (MVP), an innovative program that builds peer-based mental health support networks between combat veterans and professional athletes. His leadership helped expand MVP to seven cities nationwide, with Las Vegas serving as a blueprint for other chapters. Under his guidance, MVP Las Vegas has received multiple Congressional Recognition Awards for its impact.

Isaac's influence extends beyond MVP—he worked to launch of the MVP Juniors Baseball Team, fostering community connections through youth athletics. With nearly 600 members benefiting from MVP Las Vegas, his work has transformed lives, creating a lasting support system for veterans in need. Through fitness, mentorship, and mental health advocacy, Isaac continues to uplift his fellow veterans and strengthen his community.

Retired U.S. Air Force Medic Troy Valdez has dedicated his life to serving others, both in uniform and as a leader in the veteran community. Over 15 years of active-duty service (1999–2015), he provided medical care in CONUS and OCONUS locations, supporting military personnel in high-demand environments. His distinguished career earned him multiple commendations, including the Army Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal (3 OLC), Meritorious Unit Award, and campaign medals for service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Now, as Program Manager at U.S. VETS Las Vegas, Troy oversees critical programs supporting homeless veterans, including outreach, workforce development, transitional housing, Supportive Services for Veteran and Families (SSVF), and veteran services. He has played a key role in collaborating with The Mission Continues, helping bring large-scale service projects to improve resources for veterans. His leadership helped organize a national female veteran-led beautification project and the installation of a hydroponic garden, providing homeless veterans with hands-on skill development for mental wellness.

A strong advocate for holistic well-being, Troy encourages his team and fellow veterans to focus on self-care, actively participating in Merging Vets and Players (MVP) to promote physical fitness and peer support discussions. His dedication to service, mentorship, and community engagement continues to uplift veterans, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to rebuild their lives.

Retired Senior Master Sergeant (E-8) Brendan Vargas served 22 years in the U.S. Air Force, specializing in Public Affairs, and Broadcasting, as well as serving in Defense Attaché operations with joint assignments at the Defense Media Agency. and Defense Attaché Service. His career included supporting Kosovo operations and deployments to Iraq, and Afghanistan, earning him two Defense Meritorious Service Medals, and two Meritorious Service Medals and multiple Airman, NCO, and SNCO of the Year awards.

After transitioning from military service, Brendan became a Veterans Outreach Manager for the U.S. Senate, advocating for veterans' healthcare access and career development across Nevada. He now serves as Director of Government and Community Affairs at Tilson, while also sitting on the Board of Directors for the Kline Veterans Fund, where he helps provide housing and emergency support for at-risk veterans.

Dedicated to community service, Brendan is a Las Vegas Secret Santa board member, helping provide holiday gifts to over 2,000 children in need, and serves on the Nevada Utility Contractors Association, representing 5,000 employees. His leadership in both policy and philanthropy continue to drive impactful initiatives that support veterans and strengthen communities.

Staff Sergeant Shyla D. Vera has dedicated over eight years of active-duty service since enlisting in 2016, with assignments at Creech AFB, Nellis AFB, and deployments to Ahmad al-Jaber and Ali Al Salem Air Bases. A leader in both administration and innovation, SSgt Vera developed the Nellis/Creech Unaccompanied Housing HUB, streamlining resources for 800 dormitory residents and 73 First Sergeants, reducing communication time by 50% and saving 900 personnel-hours annually. Their commitment to education includes a CCAF degree in Business Administration (2020), numerous leadership courses, and an ongoing bachelor's in hospitality management.

While deployed to Ali Al Salem Air Base, SSgt Vera provided administrative support for 7,500 joint and coalition personnel spanning 16 countries and four Combatant Commands, driving 11 major revisions to wing-level recognition programs. Their leadership contributed to 15 United States Air Forces Central Command "Team of the Month" awards and multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit recognitions. At Nellis AFB, they managed 18 commander's programs, coordinated high-level conferences, and led award-winning initiatives that reinforced mission readiness.

A dedicated community advocate, SSgt Vera has volunteered over 20 hours with the USO, supported new service members through Nellis Dorm Council initiatives, and helped organize morale-boosting events such as networking socials and recreational activities. Their ability to foster teamwork, drive operational efficiency, and uplift fellow Airmen makes SSgt Vera a standout leader in both military service and community engagement.

Technical Sergeant Tylere A. Yates serves as the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of F-35 Suitability at the 59th Test and Evaluation Squadron, Nellis AFB, where he plays a pivotal role in operational testing, logistics evaluation, and sustainment assessments for major fighter aircraft acquisitions. With a background in Avionics Systems Technology, TSgt Yates has worked on both F-15 and F-35 aircraft during assignments in Japan, Arizona, and Nevada. Since transitioning to Operational Suitability Analysis in 2019, he has provided critical maintenance guidance and analysis for all ACC-directed F-35 tests. His expertise earned him the 53rd Test and Evaluation Group Annual Maintenance Support Personnel of the Year award.

A proven innovator, TSgt Yates established a Maintenance Operation Test personnel network, repurposing equipment from three agencies to enhance technological infrastructure and operational effectiveness. His leadership and attention to detail led to zero discrepancies during a Communications Security inspection, and his ability to develop comprehensive databases and streamline processes has strengthened unit cohesion and efficiency.

Beyond his military contributions, TSgt Yates is deeply committed to community service, volunteering with Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada, where he helped build a playground and bicycle for a critically ill child. His technical expertise, leadership, and compassion make him an invaluable asset to both his unit and the broader community.