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“I’m not a veteran,” said Van Curaza. “But where this all started from was childhood trauma. Dealing with life, not knowing where I belonged, diminished self-worth and self-esteem… and I found surfing. I found an opportunity to find value and credibility that didn’t come from a human being.” 

Van’s story isn’t typical, but then again, neither is Operation Surf. The nonprofit he founded brings together wounded veterans and active-duty service members for a week of ocean therapy, community, and transformation. For many, it’s more than a surfing experience. It’s the first time in a long time that they’ve felt peace, connection, or purpose. 


On a recent episode of The Lasting Mission podcast, Van and U.S. Army veteran John Hallett joined Mission Roll Call to talk about how Operation Surf came to be, and how it continues to change lives, including their own.

Watch or listen to the full episode here. 

A New Path After Service 

John Hallett joined the Army after 9/11. “Something inside me told me to serve my country and maybe figure out what I wanted to do with my life,” he recalled. He married his high school sweetheart and served for 14 years, most of that time as a scout in the infantry. 

After multiple deployments and a medical retirement in 2016, John found himself in a different kind of battle, this time with depression, anxiety, and a growing list of prescriptions. “Every time I went to the VA, I got a new medication,” he said. 

Like many veterans, John felt completely untethered after leaving the military. “The military is so encompassing—your job, your housing, your community, your friends. Everything is in this bubble. And it’s hard to come out of that.” 

That’s when he found Operation Surf. 

“It gave me something I wanted in my life again,” he said. Today, John is Operation Surf’s Program Manager, helping other veterans find the same healing and purpose. 

More Than a Surfboard 

At the heart of Operation Surf is the belief that connection, especially to nature and to each other, is key to healing. Each program immerses veterans in a new experience, pairing them with surf instructors and volunteers who become instant family. It’s not just about learning to ride the waves. It’s about rediscovering joy, learning to trust again, and remembering what it feels like to be fully alive. 

Van, who is over 22 years sober, said service is what keeps him grounded. “What I’ve found in this journey is that, for my own self-care and wellness, being of service and helping other people is most important. And it’s what brought me to this place and Operation Surf.” 

One Way to Support

On July 21, 2025, Operation Surf will host its 12th Annual Charles D. Perriguey Jr. Charity Golf Tournament at the San Luis Obispo Country Club. This special event honors the legacy of a decorated Marine and longtime Operation Surf supporter, with all proceeds benefiting their programs for veterans, active-duty service members, special operations forces, and their spouses. 

To learn more, participate, or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit: Operation Surf Golf Tournament Details 

Healing That Lasts 

The impact of Operation Surf reaches far beyond the beach. Participants leave with stronger mental health, lifelong friendships, and often a renewed desire to keep going even when things feel dark. 

“When you’re in the darkness,” John said, “you feel isolated and alone. I have had several times in my life when I felt that. Operation Surf showed me I wasn’t alone.” 

For veterans struggling with the invisible wounds of war, and for those simply seeking a place to belong after military service, this organization offers more than an escape. It offers a way forward. 

Learn more about Operation Surf, hear Van and John’s full stories, and discover how surfing is helping veterans heal—one wave at a time. 

Long before it became the go-to solution for broken taillights and makeshift repairs, duct tape earned its reputation in war zones, not toolboxes. Originally engineered for the U.S. military during World War II, this humble gray strip of cloth and adhesive has sealed more than just leaks. It has mended equipment, saved lives, and become a quiet symbol of American ingenuity under pressure. As part of our $25 for 250 campaign, celebrating 250 years of military service and innovation, we’re looking back at the sticky, scrappy legacy of duct tape and why it still sticks today. 

In 1943, during the height of WWII, ammunition boxes used by American troops were sealed with paper tape, wax, and other materials that were prone to tearing and hard to open quickly under fire. Enter Vesta Stoudt, a mother of two Navy sons and a worker at the Green River Ordnance Plant in Illinois. Frustrated by the inefficiency of the current sealing method, Stoudt proposed a better one: a strong, waterproof cloth-based tape that could be easily torn by hand. She even sent her idea directly to President Franklin D. Roosevelt.  


To her surprise, the President forwarded her suggestion to the War Production Board, and it was approved. Johnson & Johnson was tasked with creating the product. The result? A green, rubber-based adhesive tape reinforced with cloth backing. Soldiers called it “duck tape,” both because it was waterproof like a duck’s back and made of cotton duck fabric. The tape quickly became a battlefield essential. 

Once it was in the hands of American troops, duct tape proved invaluable. Soldiers didn’t just use it to seal ammo cans—they used it to fix cracked windows, patch holes in tents, secure loose gear, and even treat wounds in emergencies. It earned a reputation as the “100 mile-an-hour tape,” referring to its ability to withstand high speeds on vehicle repairs. Duct tape’s effectiveness lay in its simplicity: it was durable, water-resistant, hand-tearable, and endlessly multi-use. It became a lifeline for quick thinking under pressure. 


After the war, the tape was adapted for civilian use, particularly in the booming housing industry. Manufacturers changed the color from olive drab to silver to match HVAC ductwork, and the nickname “duct tape” took hold. Ironically, it’s not especially effective for sealing air ducts, but its versatility in nearly every other domain kept it popular. Despite its rebranding, the military never stopped using it. In Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, duct tape remained a staple in every toolkit and rucksack. Whether sealing fuel lines, modifying weapons, or holding boots together, duct tape kept service members mission-ready. 

Over the decades, duct tape has been credited with some truly wild feats: securing a helicopter rotor in Vietnam, reinforcing body armor in Iraq, strapping a plane door shut mid-flight, creating temporary handcuffs, slings, splints, and even makeshift stretchers. NASA famously included duct tape on every Apollo mission because if it was good enough for the battlefield, it was good enough for space. 


Duct tape represents the kind of thinking that saves time, saves missions, and sometimes saves lives. From the hands of a concerned mother in Illinois to the packs of soldiers across generations, duct tape is a testament to how small ideas can make a big impact. 

This story is just one in our $25 for 250 series, celebrating two and a half centuries of military innovation, service, and sacrifice. From chocolate M&Ms designed for war zones to battlefield breakthroughs like Super Glue, these stories remind us that our armed forces don’t just protect our nation—they help shape it. 

Check out the full 250-Year Military Timeline and consider donating $25 to honor the legacy of those who’ve served. 

 

Transitioning from military service to civilian life is a major milestone, and while it comes with exciting opportunities, it can also bring some financial challenges. Nearly 70% of veterans leave the military with some form of debt, and many face hurdles like unemployment, underemployment, or a lack of financial literacy. 

At Mission Roll Call, we believe financial freedom is within reach and it starts with a solid, step-by-step plan. If you’re preparing for retirement or separation from the military, here are five key financial areas to focus on as you build your civilian future. 

  1. Understand Your True Income Needs

Before you jump into a job search or make major financial decisions, take time to map out what you need. 

Answering these questions gives you a realistic baseline to work from. If there’s a gap between your expected income and your goals, now is the time to invest in yourself, whether through further education, certifications, or new skill development. 

  1. Start Saving and Investing Early

Once you know your income goals, the next step is building a smart savings and investment plan. The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow. Common tools include: 

Every year, these accounts have contribution caps based on your age and income, so setting up automatic contributions can help you stay consistent without even thinking about it. 

  1. Protect Your Family’s Future

One of the most important — but often overlooked — financial moves you can make is protecting your family with insurance. Life insurance, in particular, ensures your loved ones won’t struggle with debt or lost income if something happens to you. 

Here’s a tip: Apply before you leave the military if possible. Many companies offer better rates when you’re still active duty and in good health. 

  1. Get Professional Help (and Do Your Research)

Financial planning can feel overwhelming, and that’s okay. You don’t have to do it alone. A reputable financial planner can help you: 

When choosing a planner, do your homework. 

  1. Tackle Debt and Expenses Head-On

Finally, a major key to financial freedom is mastering your current expenses. Start by creating a full list of your family’s monthly costs: mortgage or rent, utilities, loans, credit cards, subscriptions, groceries, entertainment — everything. 

(Heads up: This part can be eye-opening. You might be surprised how much you’re spending on streaming services or convenience purchases.) 

Once you see where your money is going: 

Reducing your monthly obligations not only frees up money for savings and investing, but it also gives you more flexibility and peace of mind. 

Watch the Full MRCU Video on Financial Readiness 

For a deeper dive into these five financial areas — and real-world advice from veterans who have been through the transition — check out our full video below! 

Financial security doesn’t happen overnight but with thoughtful planning, steady action, and a willingness to ask for help when needed, it’s absolutely achievable. 

By identifying your income needs, investing wisely, protecting your family, finding trusted advisors, and managing debt, you can build a strong foundation for your civilian life and beyond. 

And remember, you’re not alone. Every veteran faces challenges in the transition to civilian life, but your service has already proven your ability to meet tough goals head-on. Financial freedom is just another mission and with the right plan, you can absolutely accomplish it. 

Looking for more financial tips and resources? Subscribe to Mission Roll Call University (MRCU) and check out our next video on financial planning strategies for veterans! 

 

Since Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005, states have worked to make driver’s licenses and identification cards more secure. Starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will require a Real ID-compliant ID to board domestic commercial flights and access certain federal facilities, including military bases. 

This update has caused some confusion, especially among veterans. Here’s what you need to know. 

What is a Real ID? 

A Real ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal security standards. You can usually identify it by a star in the upper right corner of the card. 

Beginning May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID or an acceptable alternative to: 

Do Veterans Need a Real ID? 

Not necessarily. Veterans can use other federally accepted forms of ID, including: 

If you have any of these forms of ID, you likely do not need to obtain a Real ID, unless you prefer to consolidate your identification or would rather not carry your passport or military ID when traveling. 

Special Considerations for Veterans 

Some veterans may not qualify for a military retiree ID or VHIC, especially if they are not enrolled in VA health care or do not meet DoD eligibility requirements. If that is the case, and you still want to fly domestically or access federal buildings, a Real ID will be required. 

Additionally, access to military bases for veterans without a DoD ID card often depends on base-specific policies, even with Real ID. Veterans using a VHIC are often required to pre-enroll in the Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) for access. 

Bottom Line 

At Mission Roll Call, we’re here to help veterans and their families stay informed about changes that impact their daily lives. We encourage you to check with your local DMV or VA representative to ensure you have the proper identification in place, or you can learn more here.  

May is Military Appreciation Month—a time to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and service of our military members and their families. Across the country, businesses are showing their gratitude with special offers and discounts. Whether you’re shopping for gear, planning a family getaway, or simply enjoying a night out, here are some of the top deals available to active-duty service members, veterans, and their families this May.

Retail & Apparel 

84 Lumber
This May, 84 Lumber is doubling its usual military discount to 20% for all in-store purchases made by veterans and active-duty service members. 

Academy Sports + Outdoors
Enjoy 10% off your entire purchase in-store or online now through July 4. 

Adidas
Military members receive 30% off online and in-store purchases, and 15% off at outlet locations with ID verification. 

Levi’s
Get 15% off Levi’s products both online and in-store with a valid military ID. 

Sleep Number
Now through June 16, veterans and service members get 5% off sale prices on Sleep Number beds and accessories. 

Entertainment & Travel 

Blue Star Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and museums across America to offer free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel, including the National Guard and Reserves, and their families. The 2025 Blue Star Museums program begins on Armed Forces Day (May 17) and ends on Labor Day (September 1).

SeaWorld & Busch Gardens
Veterans and up to three guests can enjoy free one-day admission. Tickets must be reserved online by May 11 and used by July 6. Active-duty personnel and their families receive free admission year-round. 

Vail Resorts
Veterans and active-duty members can purchase a discounted Military Epic Pass for the 2025/2026 ski season, starting at $185. Discounted family passes are also available. 

Home & Services 

ZIPS Cleaners
All month long, ZIPS Cleaners is offering 10% off uniform cleaning for military members and veterans. 

84 Lumber – Community Engagement
In addition to retail discounts, 84 Lumber is sponsoring the National Memorial Day Concert, airing May 25 on PBS at 8 p.m. EST.

Final Thoughts
These are just a few of the many ways businesses are giving back to those who have given so much. Be sure to check with local stores, restaurants, and online retailers for more offers—many provide discounts year-round for military members and veterans. 

Before you go, don’t forget to bring your military ID or verification when redeeming these offers. 

From all of us at Mission Roll Call—thank you for your service. 

 

April was all about honoring the heart of military life—our families. As we recognized the Month of the Military Child, Mission Roll Call focused on the unsung heroes growing up in the shadow of service: military children. These resilient young people face frequent moves, long deployments, and the everyday realities of life with a parent in uniform. This month, we celebrated their strength, shared critical resources, and spotlighted the support systems that lift them up. 

But we didn’t stop there. April was also a month of action, highlighting legislative updates, reflecting on military innovations that changed the world, and elevating veteran voices around issues that matter most. 

Here’s what you might have missed: 

Honoring Military Children and Families 

We were proud to spotlight this year’s recipients of Operation Homefront’s Military Child of the Year Awards—young leaders whose achievements reflect the unique challenges and strengths of military life. Meet the winners and learn more about their inspiring stories:
2025 Military Child of the Year Award Winners 

We also took a deeper look at the resources available to military children and families, breaking down the organizations, benefits, and support systems that help them thrive:
A Deep Dive into Support for Military Children  

And we highlighted the vital work of the National Military Family Association, a nonprofit that has been advocating for military families for over 50 years:
Learn More About NMFA  

The Lasting Mission Podcast: Healing, Surfing, and Service 

This month’s episodes of The Lasting Mission podcast took listeners from legacy-focused scholarships to the healing power of the ocean. 

– In one episode, Sean Corrigan of the Special Operations Warrior Foundation shared how his organization honors fallen heroes by supporting their children’s education:
Listen to the episode  

– In another, Van Curaza and John Hallet of Operation Surf explored how surfing can help veterans recover from trauma and find purpose after service:
Tune in here  

MRC in the Media: Your Voice on the National Stage 

Mission Roll Call CEO Jim Whaley appeared in several national outlets this month to speak on urgent issues impacting veterans: 

– The National Desk: Over a dozen bills introduced to improve VA services »
– NewsNation: Addressing concerns over VA staffing cuts »
– The National Desk: Fighting to restore gun rights stripped without due process »
– The Washington Examiner: Expanding due process for veterans deemed incompetent » 

From the Blog: History, Policy & the Pulse of the Community 

– What the Executive Order on DEI Means for Veterans »
– M&M’s and Military History »
– The Sticky Truth: How Super Glue Saved Lives in Combat »
– VASP Program Ending May 1—What It Means and What’s Next »
– VA Survey Results Recap: What Veterans Are Saying » 

Speak Up: Ongoing Community Survey 

We’re continuing to collect feedback on how veterans and their families are being affected by recent VA staffing changes and budget shifts. Make your voice heard:
Take the survey  

Looking Ahead: Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, and Military Appreciation Month 

May brings Military Appreciation Month and National Mental Health Awareness Month. At Mission Roll Call, we’ll be turning our focus to suicide prevention, emotional wellness, and the power of connection. Through podcast episodes, new MRCU videos, and stories from the veteran community, we’ll continue our mission to connect, educate, inform, and empower. 

 

April is the Month of the Military Child—a time to honor the resilience, strength, and sacrifices of military-connected children and their families. These young individuals often navigate unique challenges, such as frequent relocations, parental deployments, and adapting to new schools and communities. Supporting them isn’t just a gesture of appreciation—it’s critical to their well-being and success. 

At the forefront of these efforts stands the National Military Family Association (NMFA), an organization dedicated to ensuring that military families have the support they need to thrive. 

If you’re looking for a deeper dive into the challenges military children face and the resources available to help them succeed, be sure to check out Mission Roll Call’s guide to supporting military children. 

A Legacy of Advocacy and Support 

Founded in 1969 by a group of military spouses who were determined to secure financial protections for widowed friends, NMFA has grown into a powerful voice for all military families.  

Their mission is clear: to stand up for, support, and enhance the quality of life for every military family through bold advocacy, innovative programming, and dynamic solutions. For over five decades, they have been a cornerstone of empowerment, offering resources that address the real, evolving needs of service members’ families. 

Empowering Military Children Through Operation Purple® 

One of NMFA’s flagship initiatives is the Operation Purple® program, a series of experiences designed specifically for military children and families. These programs recognize that military life presents extraordinary challenges—and that building resilience begins with connection, adventure, and community. 

Highlights of Operation Purple® include: 

Operation Purple Camp: A free, week-long summer camp where more than 1,600 military kids annually meet peers who understand their journeys. Through activities like kayaking, zip-lining, and horseback riding, kids strengthen their coping skills and form lifelong bonds. 

Operation Purple Family Retreats: These retreats offer families a space to reconnect and heal after a deployment. Through structured activities and time in nature, families rebuild relationships and share meaningful experiences together. 

Operation Purple Healing Adventures: For families of wounded, ill, or injured service members, these healing retreats help navigate a new path forward, blending fun and healing in a supportive environment. 

Programs like Operation Purple® remind military children and their families that they are seen, valued, and not alone. 

Strengthening Military Spouses and Families 

Military spouses are the backbone of their families, often balancing career ambitions with the realities of frequent moves and unpredictable schedules. NMFA’s Military Spouse Scholarship Program provides critical financial support—ranging from $500 to $2,500—for spouses pursuing higher education, professional licenses, or certifications. This not only empowers spouses but also strengthens the entire family’s financial stability. 

Recognizing the ongoing childcare challenges faced by military families, NMFA also launched the Child Care Fee Relief Program. By offering reimbursements for childcare expenses related to work or education, the program eases one of the most pressing burdens military families face today. 

Giving Families a Voice 

NMFA’s impact extends beyond direct support. They conduct critical research—including the Military Teen Experience Survey—to capture the real experiences and needs of military families. These insights inform not only NMFA’s programming but also broader national conversations about how we can better serve those who serve. 

Why Supporting Military Families Matters 

The experiences of military families are often shaped by: 

The right support can make all the difference. Programs like those offered by NMFA help military families build resilience, maintain stability, and pursue opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach.  

Join the Mission 

Supporting military families is a shared responsibility, and every action counts. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply raising awareness, we can all play a role in ensuring military families feel valued and supported. 

This April, as we celebrate the Month of the Military Child, we honor not just the resilience of these extraordinary young people but the organizations like NMFA that stand behind them every day. 

Learn more about NMFA and how you can get involved at www.MilitaryFamily.org. 

 

Super Glue is one of those household items that quietly does its job — no fuss, no spotlight. However, few people know that its origins are deeply rooted in wartime innovation and that it once played a critical role in saving lives on the battlefield. 

Cyanoacrylate — the compound that makes Super Glue what it is — was first discovered in 1942 by Dr. Harry Coover. At the time, he wasn’t trying to make an adhesive at all. He was looking for materials to build clear plastic gun sights for World War II. But the formula stuck, literally, and its potential couldn’t be ignored. 

Super Glue, as we know it, hit the consumer market in the late 1950s, but it wasn’t long before military medics found a new use for it in Vietnam. Faced with traumatic injuries, heavy blood loss, and limited access to surgical care in the field, some medics began using Super Glue to seal open wounds and stabilize patients long enough to get them to real treatment. It wasn’t FDA-approved for medical use, but in a combat zone, innovation often comes before regulation. 

Stories from the Vietnam War describe how these tiny tubes of glue became unexpected lifelines. A quick application could help stop bleeding, prevent infection, and buy precious time. While it wasn’t a permanent fix, it was often the difference between life and death. 

That same spirit of ingenuity — taking what you have and making it work — has long been part of military culture. From turning socks into water filters to fashioning antennas out of coat hangers, service members have always found a way. Super Glue is just one example of how creativity, necessity, and courage come together in moments that matter. 

Today, medical-grade versions of Super Glue are used in hospitals and operating rooms across the world. But it all started with an accidental discovery during wartime and a battlefield workaround by medics who refused to give up. 

This is just one of the countless stories hidden in the folds of 250 years of military history — small but powerful reminders of the grit and resourcefulness that define our armed forces. 

View the full timeline and join Mission Roll Call in honoring stories like these. Support the $25 for 250 campaign and help us preserve the legacy of those who served and the tools, traditions, and tenacity that helped them come home. 

 

 

Since taking office in January, the new administration has signed more than 100 executive orders, shaping policies that directly affect public servants, including military members, veterans, and the organizations that support them. Amplifying the voices of veterans and their families for positive change is central to Mission Roll Call’s mission. In the face of new policies, we aim to be mindful of how to implement these orders in ways that are consistent with this mission.

In this article, we discuss President Trump’s executive orders focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). We will examine the intent and purpose of these orders and where they fit in the larger picture. Following this background is a discussion and critique surrounding the removal of important stories from the US military’s history—stories we believe should remain prominent in public-facing government platforms.

What is the Executive Order?

The new administration signed a series of executive orders to end or amend past administrative actions on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives (DEI). DEI broadly refers to diversity initiatives intended to prevent discrimination and foster environments that are more welcoming to people of historically marginalized communities. However, some Americans believe these initiatives can lead to accidental preferencing of the people they seek to include. Accidental preferencing occurs when seemingly neutral actions or policies inadvertently favor certain groups, undermining merit-based opportunities and fairness.

In the executive order signed on January 20, 2025 – Inauguration Day – the administration stated the rationale behind these changes: “Americans deserve a government committed to serving every person with equal dignity and respect.” To implement this EO, agencies and federal contractors are subject to the review and revision, as appropriate, of all employment practices and training programs or policies. The objective of this review is to ensure that Federal employee performance reviews “shall reward individual initiative, skills, performance, and hard work.” The intention of this order is positive. Most agree that employees, whether in the public or private sector, should be evaluated and rewarded based on their merit and skill. However, if agencies are too zealous in implementing these directives, they risk swinging the pendulum too far in the other direction. 

Overzealous Implementation of this Executive Order Risks Minimizing Historic Achievements

Agencies are using their best judgment in implementing these executive orders, but the results so far are inconsistent across the federal sector. An example of this is DOD’s removal of thousands of historical images and stories from the US military’s exalted history. This decision runs contrary to the intent of these executive orders and severs important historical connections and achievements. 

Everyone who serves or has served takes pride in their contributions to the military’s success and legacy. Family members tell stories of their grandparents, fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, and more who have served with honor and distinction. The military we know today is built upon the perseverance, sacrifice, and legacy of yesterday’s heroes, no matter their immutable characteristics. There’s a saying in the infantry: there’s no color in the foxhole. The veterans and their stories that make up this history are founded in merit, skill, and dedicated service, the very qualities we seek to elevate through these executive orders. Removing important parts of this history from the ledger runs contrary to the intent of these orders. We risk losing touch with the challenges prior generations overcame that forged the most powerful military to date. 

For example, images of the “Enola Gay,” the Boeing B-29 aircraft that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, were among the 26,000 images flagged for removal. This aircraft was part of one of the most well-known missions in world history, and its removal from public records would be a tragic mistake. It’s also clearly not in line with the intent of the EO. Additionally, war heroes and trailblazers, such as Black Medal of Honor recipient Army Maj. Gen. Charles Calvin Rogers and the first female fighter pilot, Air Force Maj. Gen. Jeannie Leavitt had webpages detailing their service taken down due to mentions of their race or gender. But we cannot accurately tell these heroes’ histories without mentioning elements of their identity that – while not qualifying on their own – are part of their stories of triumph. They are part of our military history and it is our duty to represent them in the fullness of who they were. It’s our collective responsibility to uphold and comply with the intent of the order—which, for veteran organizations like Mission Roll Call, means sharing the stories of service members and veterans of all genders, races, and identities.

How Can We Better Implement this Executive Order?

Throughout history, brave men and women of all backgrounds, races, and identities have served our country with dignity. It would be an injustice to them and the future generations of brave men and women to erase their role in our nation’s history. 

For example, during World War I, more than 1,000 women stood up to do whatever they could for their country. The Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) were a group of women who trained for non-combat military missions to free up men to serve on the front lines. The WASPs rallied for 30 years to receive their rightfully earned veteran status. It would be a mistake to erase their efforts and recognition for their military service and their pioneering role in the war. This is just one of many examples of brave Americans making sacrifices for the good of our country, and it is a story based on merit and skill. This history should not be erased or removed, and to do so would be a disservice to our brave former and current service members, their families – and their legacies.

Mission Roll Call is an organization that amplifies the voices and needs of veterans and their families from all backgrounds.  Many of the groups whose stories are being retold or removed are already under-resourced. Rural American Indians and Alaska Natives who serve in the military at higher rates than any other group have less access to primary care providers, with Native Americans having disproportionately worse health than any other U.S. racial group. Likewise, Black veterans are significantly overrepresented among homeless veterans and female veterans are more likely to be homeless with dependent children. Mission Roll Call will continue to advocate for all veterans, especially those from underserved communities whose stories are often overlooked. Upholding the values of equity and inclusion doesn’t require erasing history. It demands that we tell it fully, honestly, and with the respect every veteran has earned. 

 

April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to recognize the resilience, strength, and sacrifices made by the youngest members of our military community. At Mission Roll Call, we believe that honoring veterans also means honoring their families—and that includes the millions of military-connected children who grow up navigating the unique challenges of military life. These children are often the unsung heroes of service, adapting to frequent moves, long deployments, and the emotional toll that comes with having a parent in uniform. 

That’s why this April, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on the 2025 Military Child of the Year® Award winners, presented by Operation Homefront. These seven extraordinary young people, each representing a branch of the military, exemplify the leadership, courage, and community spirit we aim to amplify every day at Mission Roll Call. 

Collectively, the 2025 MCOY recipients have experienced 34 permanent changes of station and endured 283 months of parental deployments. Despite these challenges, they have accumulated a remarkable 3,488 volunteer hours in the 12 months preceding their nominations. Each awardee will receive a $10,000 grant, a laptop computer, and other donated gifts, and will be honored at a gala in Arlington, VA, on April 10, 2025. 

Meet the 2025 Honorees 

Air Force: Sophia Pinero, 17, Ramstein Air Base, Germany
Sophia faced the tragic loss of her father, Master Sgt. Anthony Pinero, in 2023. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, she immersed herself in activities at Ramstein High School, including Air Force JROTC, where she commanded over 10 Color Guard formations. Sophia aspires to attend the United States Air Force Academy and pursue a career as an Air Force officer.  

Army: Maribel Sikes, 16, Fort Knox, KY
Maribel has shown a deep commitment to service within her community. Her leadership roles and volunteer efforts have made a significant impact, reflecting her dedication to helping others. Maribel’s experiences as a military child have shaped her into a compassionate and driven individual.  

Coast Guard: Ian Lindo, 17, Chesapeake, VA
Ian’s academic achievements are noteworthy; he is set to graduate as valedictorian from I.C. Norcom High School and will earn an associate degree from Tidewater Community College. His passion for civil engineering is matched by his dedication to mentoring peers and serving his community.  

Marine Corps: Isabella Smith, 17, Hubert, NC
After the loss of her father, Gunnery Sgt. Brian J. Smith, in 2023, Isabella transformed her grief into leadership. She actively welcomes new students at Swansboro High School and is on track to earn an associate degree before graduating. Isabella plans to pursue a career in law and politics.  

National Guard: Emily Baldeosingh, 18, Havelock, NC
As a Gold Star Family member, Emily honors her late father, Sgt. Juan Carlos Baldeosingh, through extensive community service, totaling 389 volunteer hours in the past year. She excels in athletics and academics and plans to study international business at High Point University. 

Navy: Mason Mosher, 19, Marysville, WA
Mason overcame learning challenges to graduate high school at 16 and earn a bachelor’s degree by 19. While managing caregiving responsibilities at home, he dedicated 900 volunteer hours to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.  

Space Force: Natalia Serna, 17, Lompoc, CA
Having attended 12 schools due to frequent relocations, Natalia embraced these experiences to develop resilience and adaptability. An honor student and junior class president at Cabrillo High School, she plans to study law and political science, aiming for a future in public service. 

Why It Matters to Mission Roll Call 

At Mission Roll Call, our mission is to give veterans—and their families—a voice in shaping the future of this country. That voice doesn’t begin after service; it starts at home, often with the children who grow up under the shadow of deployment, PCS orders, and uncertainty. The stories of this year’s Military Child of the Year honorees are not just inspiring—they’re essential to understanding the full scope of what it means to serve. 

When we advocate for veteran care, transition support, and policy reform, we are also fighting for the families who sacrifice right alongside them. We see military children as part of the broader mission—a resilient community that deserves recognition, support, and celebration. 

Honoring Their Sacrifice During the Month of the Military Child 

The Month of the Military Child is more than a moment on the calendar. It’s a reminder that behind every service member is a family, and within every military family is a child whose life is shaped by service. From deployments to homecomings, from missed birthdays to changed schools, their experiences are as real and impactful as those of their parents. 

Mission Roll Call encourages our community—veterans, civilians, and policymakers alike—to listen to these stories. Follow the lead of these young awardees. Support the programs that uplift them. And help us ensure that the voices of military children are heard, honored, and included in the conversation. 

To Sophia, Maribel, Ian, Isabella, Emily, Mason, and Natalia—thank you. Your leadership, your service, and your sacrifices make our military community stronger. You remind us all that courage doesn’t wait until adulthood. It’s already here, in every base housing neighborhood, every school on post, and every child who calls a service member “Mom” or “Dad.” 

 

 

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