Mission First
Mission
First
The Tribute to Valor Foundation aims to influence, impact and inspire the youth of America to ask themselves “Who Am I?” and to answer by reflecting on the six core values of the Medal of Honor: Courage, Sacrifice, Patriotism, Citizenship, Integrity, and Commitment.
The Tribute to Valor Foundation aims to influence, impact and inspire the youth of America to ask themselves “Who Am I?” and to answer by reflecting on the six core values of the Medal of Honor: Courage, Sacrifice, Patriotism, Citizenship, Integrity, and Commitment.
Mission
First
The Tribute to Valor Foundation aims to influence, impact and inspire the youth of America to ask themselves “Who Am I?” and to answer by reflecting on the six core values of the Medal of Honor: Courage, Sacrifice, Patriotism, Citizenship, Integrity, and Commitment.
At the Tribute to Valor Foundation, we frame “Who Am I?” as a practical tool for personal growth. Each individual’s response is distinct, yet rooted in shared principles. We deliver these through targeted partnerships with school districts, introducing customized programs and curriculum that sustain engagement over time. Structured activities enable participants to explore their identity, values, and purpose, cultivating ongoing self-reflection and development.
We further support student progress in the STEM ecosystem through our STEM-Liner program, featuring organized visits to NASA facilities. These experiences enhance proficiency in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, while fostering innovation and awareness of professional opportunities. Ultimately, participants gain clear insights into their strengths and readiness to contribute effectively to society.
At the Tribute to Valor Foundation, we frame “Who Am I?” as a practical tool for personal growth. Each individual’s response is distinct, yet rooted in shared principles. We deliver these through targeted partnerships with school districts, introducing customized programs and curriculum that sustain engagement over time. Structured activities enable participants to explore their identity, values, and purpose, cultivating ongoing self-reflection and development.
We further support student progress in the STEM ecosystem through our STEM-Liner program, featuring organized visits to NASA facilities. These experiences enhance proficiency in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, while fostering innovation and awareness of professional opportunities. Ultimately, participants gain clear insights into their strengths and readiness to contribute effectively to society.
At the Tribute to Valor Foundation, we frame “Who Am I?” as a practical tool for personal growth. Each individual’s response is distinct, yet rooted in shared principles. We deliver these through targeted partnerships with school districts, introducing customized programs and curriculum that sustain engagement over time. Structured activities enable participants to explore their identity, values, and purpose, cultivating ongoing self-reflection and development.
We further support student progress in the STEM ecosystem through our STEM-Liner program, featuring organized visits to NASA facilities. These experiences enhance proficiency in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, while fostering innovation and awareness of professional opportunities. Ultimately, participants gain clear insights into their strengths and readiness to contribute effectively to society.





Board of Directors
Board of Directors
BOARD OF DIRECTORS


Gary Lawson
Gary
Lawson
Chairman & General Counsel
Chairman &
General Counsel
Gary Lawson
While Gary is the author of numerous law articles and was victorious in two lawsuits in the United States 5th Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States Supreme Court, aside from his family, he is proudest of his decade long service to our military and veteran community as a co-founder of America’s Huey 091/Independence Corps Foundation which provided over $2.5M worth of iBOT Mobility Systems, Luke Arm and Track Chairs to wounded veterans, and the second longest serving board member and two-time Chairman of Snowball Express, providing hope and new memories for the thousands of children and surviving parents of U.S. Military personnel killed serving post 9/11.
Gary also co-founded and served on a nonprofit for homeless children called Capt. Hope’s Kids and was co-founder and longtime board member with the late Dr. Jane Goodall, of Medisend International- providing medical equipment to developing countries, was also co-founder and board member of FIRST In Texas.
In recognition of his decades long service to military families and veterans, in 2013 the Secretary of the Army designated Gary an honorary member of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, the “Nightstalkers”.
Gary has been a frequent speaker before such groups as the State Bar of Texas, the National League of Cities, Guns & Hoses, TEXPERS and articles about his work have appeared in USA Today, Boston Globe and the New York Times and the Journal of the State Bar of Texas.


Dr. Leslie Pidgeon
Dr. Leslie
Pidgeon
Treasurer
Dr. Leslie Pidgeon
Dr. Leslie Pidgeon is a distinguished osteopathic physician specializing in emergency medicine and family medicine, with over 20 years of dedicated service to patient care in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. As a seventh-generation Texan, born and raised in Houston, she embodies a profound commitment to her home state and its communities.
Dr. Pidgeon earned her undergraduate degree from The University of Texas at Austin, followed by her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from the University of North Texas Health Science Center (TCU and UNTHSC School of Medicine) in 2005. She completed her internship and residency in family medicine at Methodist Health System, where she honed her expertise in high-acuity settings.
Throughout her career, Dr. Pidgeon has served as an attending physician in emergency medicine and critical care at prominent institutions, including Texas Health Center for Diagnostic and Surgery and Medical City Plano. Her clinical practice encompasses a broad spectrum of conditions, such as dehydration, nausea, headaches, sprains, and strains, with a particular emphasis on arterial blood gas testing and comprehensive family health management. She has also contributed significantly to medical education as a faculty member at Methodist Health System, mentoring residents and medical students from UNTHSC and UT Southwestern Medical Center. In this capacity, she has participated in peer review committees, intensive care unit oversight, and emergency department quality initiatives, fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Beyond her clinical and educational roles, Dr. Pidgeon demonstrates a strong commitment to community service through her involvement with nonprofit organizations. She actively supports initiatives focused on health equity, education, and family wellness in the Dallas area, including volunteer efforts with local health outreach programs that provide free medical screenings and resources to underserved populations. Additionally, as a member of the prominent Pidgeon family associated with Starpower Home Entertainment Systems—a fourth-generation family business renowned for its contributions to consumer electronics and custom home integration—Dr. Pidgeon engages with Starpower’s philanthropic arm. This includes participation in annual charity events, such as the company’s VIP Invitational Golf Tournament, which has raised substantial funds for organizations like the North Texas Food Bank, exemplifying her dedication to leveraging family legacy for broader societal impact.
Affiliated with multiple healthcare networks, Dr. Pidgeon maintains an active practice in Dallas, Texas, where she accepts a range of insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross, and UnitedHealthcare, and offers telehealth consultations to enhance accessibility. Her approach integrates osteopathic principles with evidence-based medicine, prioritizing holistic patient outcomes in both urgent and preventive care contexts.
Dr. Pidgeon’s unwavering dedication to excellence has established her as a respected leader in Texas healthcare, consistently delivering compassionate, precise, and innovative care to diverse patient populations while advancing community welfare through nonprofit engagement.


James McCloughan
James
McCloughan
Medal of Honor Recipient, James “Doc” McCloughan
Born in South Haven, Michigan, Mr. McCloughan was raised in the rural area of Bangor, Michigan. He graduated from Olivet College in 1968 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. Drafted into the United States Army that same year, he served as a combat medic with the Americal Division, rising to the rank of Specialist Five. In one battle alone, “Doc” McCloughan is credited with entering the “kill zone” on ten occasions, thereby saving the lives of ten American soldiers and one Vietnamese interpreter.
Specialist McCloughan was highly decorated, receiving the Combat Medic Badge, two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars with “V” device for valor, the United States Army Valorous Unit Citation, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with three campaign stars, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm and one Oak Leaf Cluster, and the M16 Expert Rifle Badge. In 2017, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military commendation.
Upon returning from service in 1970, Mr. McCloughan resumed his contract with South Haven Public Schools. In 1972, he earned a Master of Arts in Counseling. He remained with South Haven High School for 38 years, teaching psychology and sociology while coaching football, wrestling, baseball, and American Legion baseball. As a Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) wrestling official, he was selected to referee 18 state finals. Mr. McCloughan has been inducted into three athletic halls of fame, as well as the Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame, the Michigan High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame, and the Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame, which recognizes coaches across all boys’ and girls’ sports. In 2019, he was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.
Among Mr. McCloughan’s other prestigious awards are the Wolverine Conference Distinguished Service Award; the Olivet College Distinguished Alumni Award; the Olivet College Leadership Award; the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Distinguished Citizen Medal; the Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International; the 2017 State of Michigan Veteran of the Year Award; the 2018 Department of Michigan Legionnaire of the Year Award; the 2017 Michigan Fitness Foundation Governor’s Award for Veteran of the Year; the Peaceful Warrior’s Foundation Military and Career Service Award; induction into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor; and induction into the United States Pentagon Hall of Heroes.
Since retirement, Mr. McCloughan has remained dedicated to his community and the nation through membership in nonprofit organizations, participation in multiple charitable projects, service on various boards, and performances as a vocalist. Representing the Medal of Honor, he speaks across the nation. He has served as Vice President of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, Chair of the Valor Outreach Program, and Chair of the Character Development Program, which is designed to instill ethical virtues in America’s youth. He also serves as Chair of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Citizen Awards Committee. He and his wife, Chérie, reside in Saugatuck, Michigan. They have four adult children, seven grandchildren, and two standard poodles.
Additional information and the official citation may be found on the United States Army website.
A 15-minute Living History film may be viewed on YouTube at here.
By searching “James McCloughan” on YouTube, one may access additional videos of Mr. McCloughan speaking or singing patriotic songs.


Israel Del Toro Jr.
Israel
Del Toro Jr.
Israel Del Toro Jr.
His extensive recovery incorporated adaptive sports and advocacy on behalf of fellow wounded warriors. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program. In February 2010, Senior Master Sergeant Del Toro became the first Airman with a 100% disability rating to reenlist in the Air Force. Following reenlistment, he resumed duties as an instructor in his career field before being assigned to Colorado Springs for training at the Olympic Training Center as the Air Force’s inaugural Para World Class Athlete. Upon completing that program, he joined the Wings of Blue at the United States Air Force Academy, where he instructed cadets in skydiving until his retirement on 29 August 2019. Senior Master Sergeant Israel Del Toro Jr. dedicated more than 22 years of service to the Air Force.
He is a recipient of the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, and the Pat Tillman Award for Courage at the ESPYs.


Tony Orlando
Tony
Orlando
Tony Orlando
Tony Orlando stands as an enduring icon in American entertainment, renowned for his chart-topping hits with the group Tony Orlando and Dawn, including the timeless anthem “Tie a Yellow Ribbon ‘Round the Ole Oak Tree,” which has symbolized hope and homecoming for returning service members since its release in 1973. Born Michael Anthony Orlando Cassavitis on April 3, 1944, in New York City, Orlando’s career spans over six decades, encompassing roles as a singer, songwriter, producer, and television host. His early breakthrough came at age 16 with solo singles like “Halfway to Paradise,” followed by the formation of Dawn in 1970, leading to international success with tracks such as “Candida” and “Knock Three Times.” The group’s CBS variety show, The Tony Orlando and Dawn Show, captivated audiences from 1974 to 1976, blending music, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Orlando’s legacy is profoundly shaped by his unwavering commitment to philanthropy, particularly in support of United States veterans. For more than 50 years, he has dedicated himself to honoring those who have served, raising hundreds of millions of dollars for veterans’ causes and their families. His song “Tie a Yellow Ribbon” evolved into a powerful emblem of solidarity during the Vietnam War era, inspiring annual Free Veterans Day Homecoming Celebrations at his Yellow Ribbon Music Theatre in Branson, Missouri, from 1993 to 2013. Orlando’s advocacy extends to serving as an honorary chairman for the Gary Sinise Foundation’s Snowball Express, which supports the children of fallen heroes, and as the benefactor of the Tony Orlando Yellow Ribbon Scholarship through the American Bus Association Foundation, providing essential aid to military veterans and their dependents.
In recognition of his exemplary service, Orlando has received prestigious honors, including the Bob Hope Award for Excellence in Entertainment from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. He served for 17 years on the Board of Directors for the Eisenhower Foundation and has emceed numerous Medal of Honor events, including the Secretary of Defense Freedom Awards at the Pentagon. As a current board member of the Tribute to Valor Foundation, Orlando continues to champion programs that instill the values of valor and resilience—embodied by Congressional Medal of Honor recipients—in the next generation of leaders. Through his performances, which he vows to sustain for veterans even after retiring from full touring in 2024, Orlando exemplifies a life devoted to gratitude, healing, and national unity.


Jim Palmersheim
Jim
Palmersheim
Jim Palmersheim


Tom Fireoved
Tom
Fireoved
Tom Fireoved
Tom Fireoved started his career in sports in the communications department of Zucker Sports Management Group in suburban Chicago, providing PR and marketing assistance to the agency’s professional NFL and NBA athletes. In May of 1993 he moved south when he was hired as one of the first employees of the Dallas Stars Hockey Club after its relocation from Minnesota.
Helping hockey get its foothold in the Lone Star State over 14 years, serving as Executive Vice President of Corporate Sales, he was responsible for all team sponsorship sales including signage, TV, radio, print, website, the American Airlines Center, the Dr Pepper StarCenters and the Dallas Stars Foundation. For three of those years, he simultaneously wore a similar hat with the Texas Rangers Major League Baseball Club, when the front offices of the two teams were merged.
Fireoved left the team side of sports in 2007 when he founded Franchise Sports & Entertainment, an agency representing professional athletes in all aspects of marketing opportunities, including, but not limited to, commercials, appearances, new media, and all aspects of promotion. As president of the agency, he also served as a consultant to local teams, sporting and charitable events, and the agency began providing services such as comprehensive sports marketing plans, media buying and evaluation, sponsorship negotiations, implementation, and activation.
In 2009 he co-founded the regional hi-end sports and lifestyle publication ScoreBoard Magazine, and in early 2017 Fireoved and his partners created Mint Farm Films, a production company dedicated to the creation and distribution of original sports programing, including biographical documentaries on hall-of-fame athletes. The same year he helped launch XSM Global, a full-service action sports agency.
In 2024, Franchise Sports & Entertainment partnered with Athlete Playmaker Group, helping to facilitate the naming rights and operation of hall-of-fame athlete-themed bars and restaurants in airports throughout North America and the Caribbean.
Fireoved previously served on the board of directors of the Dallas Stars Foundation, and is currently on the advisory board of the National Basketball Retired Players Association, and a board member of both the Mike Modano Foundation and the Tribute to Valor Foundation. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Christian University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois at Chicago.


Scott Murray
Scott
Murray
Scott Murray
Scott Murray spent three decades with NBC television as a multi–EMMY Award-winning TV anchor/host and broadcast journalist. He’s been recognized as a Living Legend of Journalism by the Press Club of Dallas and is a recipient of the prestigious Silver Circle Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
Scott presently is CEO of Murray Media World, a television production company with Event A/V, Virtual Shows and Streaming, he created with his son. He also remains most active as a keynote speaker, author, radio host and moderator/master of ceremonies of hundreds of corporate, convention and charitable events. In addition, he serves on the board/advisory boards of countless children’s, civic, charitable and non-profit organizations. Scott is most proud to support the success of students looking to further their education, but lack the necessary resources, through the Scott Murray Scholarship Foundation. He’s also most proud that the Scott Murray Scholarship for Sports Broadcasting is presented annually in partnership with the Lone Star EMMY Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences to a college bound student pursuing a career in Television Sports Broadcasting and the Scott Murray Community Service Award given annually to a scholar/athlete in partnership with the National Football Foundation Gridiron Club of Dallas.
Scott is proud to have been honored with countless professional and personal awards such as: Man of the Year, Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Philanthropist of the Year, and Humanitarian of the Year. He’s a recipient of the Governor’s Award, Director’s Award from the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice, George Washington Medal of Honor Freedom Award, Military Order of World Wars Patrick Henry Silver Award, Dallas Crime Commission Award for War on Drugs, Legacy of Men Award Tackling Domestic Violence, Champion for Children Award, Tom Landry Award of Excellence, Life of Purpose Award, American Cancer Society Excalibur Award & Sword of Hope Award, United Way Hercules Award, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Honoree, Special Olympics Torch Award and Scott’s two most cherished awards, Dad of the Year & Father of the Year.


David Haddad
David
Haddad
David D. Haddad
David introduced the cigar industry to an entirely new business model, providing world class event production to nationally recognized gatherings like the PGA, Collector Car Auctions, Churchill Downs, etc. and major corporations to personal amenity programs on a national scale.
David founded Fumar Cigars in 1995 and today, Fumar Cigars has operations in 27 states and 52 markets providing cigar services to 450+ resorts from coast to coast, cigar retail store and private clubs.
David founded Friends Of Freedom (FOF) and Flagship Freedom/Sticks for Soldiers, providing cigars to deployed service members through Blue Star Moms “Packages from Home” care packs.
David and Fumar Cigars donated over 100,000 cigars to troops in the first 4 years with the licensed logos of each of the military branch mascots. By 2024 David delivered over 1.4 million cigars into the war zone particularly to USO Victory base, Baghdad, Iraq and The Tillman Center in Bagram, Afghanistan and hosted over 450 events, supplying cigars and smiles for the deployed troops in Afghanistan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Germany, Korea, North Africa and Iraq.
Friends Of Freedom provides support service and program support for over 20 different annual benefits to hundreds, often over 1000, service members per year.
David frequently partnered with American Airlines Veterans Initiatives Programs, including gathering school supplies for Iraqi school children with Gary Sinise and Operation International Children, a division of People to People International whose CEO was Mary Jean Eisenhower.
Easter 2009, David joined a mission to Iraq to deliver 12 tons of school supplies to Iraqi children along with 7000+ pair of Crocs shoes.
In July 2009 David and Friends of Freedom delivered 3 complete driving ranges to the troops of Camp Victory and Camp Sather, Baghdad USO Centers and Balad USO Center, with the help of the USGA, 100,000 golf balls, 402 golf clubs and 5 driving mats, all donated by communities in Scottsdale and Golfweek Magazine readers nationwide.
Between 2009-2024 David and Fumar Cigars partnered with the American Airlines Veterans Initiatives taking 125 severely wounded servicemen and their caregivers each year from Walter Reed/ Bethesda Naval Hospital, Brooke Army Hospital in San Antonio and Balboa Rehab Center in San Diego to The Venetian and the Mirage Resorts for an all-expense paid “break” from their rehab centers.
Board Memberships
- From 2007 to 2015 David served on the USO Board of Advisors
- Honorary Squadron Commander, Luke AFB, 309th Fighter Squadron 56th Fighter Wing
- USO Board of Advisors, Arizona, National Ambassador and AFE entertainment
- American Airlines Veterans Initiatives Advisory Council 2009-Present
- Charter ALPHA CLASS, Blue Blazers Squadron for Fighter Country Foundation
- Member of the “Distinguished Speakers Series”
- Founder, Friends of Freedom inc 501 c)(3) non-profit
- Historian, Cigar Industry Council


David Schulz
David
Schulz
David Schulz
David Schulz is from Harbor City, California, and is placed at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Dave is a Major in the United States Army. As an Infantry Officer, Dave led soldiers during multiple combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. As an Army Foreign Area Officer assigned to the Western Hemisphere, Dave is a political-military regional expert, fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, and has served at U.S. Embassies in San Salvador, El Salvador, and Mexico City, Mexico. Most recently, Dave served as the Military Deputy Foreign Policy Advisor to U.S. Northern Command. Dave also served as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Denver’s Josef Korbel School. Dave volunteers as a Big Brother and mentor in the communities where he is stationed and is committed to serving underprivileged children by creating opportunities for them to earn an education and better their lives. Dave enlisted in the U.S. Army at 17, earned an ROTC Scholarship, and graduated as a Distinguished Military Graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dave also attended the Naval Postgraduate School and earned a dual master’s degree in Defense Analysis and in National Security while also serving as the elected chairman of the President’s Student Council.


Tim Baldermann
Tim
Baldermann
Tim Baldermann
Tim Baldermann was elected Mayor of the Village of New Lenox in May 2007 and re-elected in 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023. As Mayor, Tim was previously selected as the Municipal Leader of the Year. He previously served as a Village Trustee for four years. He also served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Laraway Communications 911 Center and as a Director on the Metra board.
Tim retired as the Chief of Police in Chicago Ridge in 2010. He served on the Chicago Ridge Police Department for over 22 years. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia and Northwester University School of Staff and Command.
Tim has earned awards for domestic violence prevention and efforts to combat narcotics trafficking; twice receiving the International Association of Narcotics Enforcement Award. He has also received the Sheriff’s Medal of Honor.
Tim served on the New Lenox School District #122 Board for two years and served as their president. . He received the “Those Who Excel Award” from the State Board of Education. Having earned the required state certification to be a school administrator, Tim was named school superintendent of Union School District in 2012. Under Tim’s leadership, the district also won the “Those Who Excel Award” and is ranked in the top 1% of all school districts in the United States (Niche 2025/2026).
Tim donates his Mayor’s salary to provide assistance to members of his community that need additional financial help with medical bills, housing or educational needs of their children.
Tim and his wife, Megan, an elementary school principal, have five (5) children and eight (8) grandchildren. Tim and his family reside in the Village of New Lenox.


Ed Shock
Ed
Shock
Ed Shock
Edward F. Shock is a seasoned executive leader with extensive experience in both government and the private sectors recently serving as Associate Director for Governance, Policy, and Stakeholder Outreach at the Pentagon for the Department of Defense. His prior government roles include senior leadership positions at the Department of Education, in Federal Student Aid impacting services for over 30 million loan borrowers. Ed also served in the United States Air Force where he held key command roles with multiple deployments supporting Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom overseeing global deployments and base operations support. After retiring as a Colonel in the Air Force he also held multiple senior level roles as Senior Director at Oracle and Vice President for the USO. Ed holds a Master of Science in Strategic Resourcing from the National Defense University, a Master of Arts in Management from Webster University, and a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.


Rosie Babin
Rosie
Babin
Rosie Babin
Drawing from her own service as an Army veteran, her experience as a former paralegal, firm administrator, and a persistent hope for better outcomes, Rosie has worked to identify resources and solutions for her family. She continues to provide full-time care for Alan while quietly extending her support to other wounded veterans and their loved ones, sharing what she has learned to ease their paths.
Honored to serve as an Elizabeth Dole Foundation Fellow representing Texas, Rosie advocates for military caregivers, raising awareness about the needs of long-term caregiving and highlighting the quiet strength of our Hidden Heroes. She also contributes as a Committee Member on the Infinite Hero Foundation Grant Committee and offers her personal perspective as a subject-matter expert in military caregiver issues.
Rosie speaks to civic and veterans groups to foster understanding and support, shedding light on ongoing gaps in care from the Department of Defense, Veterans Administration, and related organizations. She collaborates with members of Congress to ensure the needs of wounded warriors remain a priority, always aiming to help these heroes and their families find fulfillment and wholeness in their lives.
Rosie has been married to her high school sweetheart, Alain, for 47 years. Together, they joined the United States Army in 1978 as a husband-and-wife team. They are the proud parents of Alan and Christy.


Spencer Bass
Spencer
Bass
Spencer Bass
A native of Euless, Texas, Mr. Bass established a distinguished 10-year career as a professional freestyle BMX athlete. He competed at elite international levels and secured partnerships with leading brands such as Gatorade, Oakley, Sony Mobile, MetroPCS, and Hyper Bikes. His global experiences across more than 45 countries developed a profound understanding of discipline, innovation, and high-performance leadership.
Since 2018, Mr. Bass has served as a partner at XSM Global, representing action sports and Olympic athletes, and at Franchise Sports & Entertainment, focusing on major sports and Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities. He also directs commercial initiatives at the Athlete Playmaker Group alongside iconic athletes including Simone Biles, Dirk Nowitzki, Drew Brees, David Ortiz, Jerry Rice, Marshawn Lynch, and Mike Modano.
In his board role, Mr. Bass draws from these experiences to advance educational outreach. He supports initiatives that equip children with essential skills for future success while honoring acts of valor and fostering character development.


Trevor Aldridge
Trevor
Aldridge
Trevor Aldridge
Aldridge founded his flagship company, Nexus Innovations, in 2011, specializing in artificial intelligence-driven cybersecurity solutions. Under his leadership as Chief Executive Officer, the firm has secured over $500 million in venture funding and expanded to employ more than 1,200 professionals across global offices. His moniker “Dozen” originated from an early collegiate project where he developed a dozen interconnected algorithms that revolutionized data encryption protocols, a breakthrough that garnered industry acclaim.
In addition to his corporate endeavors, Aldridge serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations focused on STEM education and environmental sustainability. He has pledged significant personal resources to initiatives promoting equitable access to technology in underserved communities. Aldridge resides in San Francisco with his family and maintains an active interest in aerospace engineering as a private pilot and investor in space exploration ventures.


Phil Vandel
Phil
Vandel
Phil Vandel
Phil Vandel (Pronounced like Vandal or Candle) is a Hall of Fame singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer who has traveled the world with his music and continues to bring his powerful, unique style of singing, songwriting, and fiery guitar playing to audiences around the globe at over 150 shows per year. Phil has been a band member for several multi-award winning groups and has appeared on CMT, GAC, and on Country Radio Stations worldwide and in countless newspaper and magazine articles including Country Weekly Magazine and US Veteran Magazine. Phil was the former lead singer, guitarist, and songwriter for the country band Dixie Cadillacs from 1999 to 2008 during their National touring years. In 2021, Phil and the Dixie Cadillacs received one of the highest honors when they were inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame.
Phil is a proud supporter of the U.S. Military and has donated countless hours performing shows for active, retired, and wounded warriors coast to coast. Phil has performed at multiple “welcome home” events for returning troops and he has spent many holidays at military hospitals with soldiers too injured to be home with their families. Phil has volunteered many hours at schools all across America offering motivational speaking and songs to kids alongside Medal of Honor recipients and other distinguished guests to educate kids on the price of freedom and to encourage them to give back to their local communities and country. In 2009, VandelSnook, a powerful duo consisting of Phil and Matt Snook (The Voice), were blessed to be a part of the American Airlines / Operation Iraqi Children group that flew into Bahrain, Germany, Kuwait, and Iraq to entertain the U.S. Troops deployed there. In 2010, Phil and his band embarked on two separate tours to Kuwait and Iraq for an incredible string of headlining shows for the deployed US Troops there. On his May 2010 trip to Iraq, Phil and his group set a record for performing the most shows of any music group on a single trip down-range by logging 18 full-production concerts in just 9 days with every show at a different base.
Since his overseas concerts, Phil and the band have performed coast to coast at countless concerts, fairs, festivals, corporate events, school outreach programs, and military events. Some highlighted performances include: Concert for a Military Gala in Hawaii, 4th of July Celebration in Washington DC, numerous performances at the military charity event “SkyBall” in Dallas, TX, and over 16 years of performances in Las Vegas for Salute to the Troops and at the NCOA National Convention. In early 2013, Phil re-wrote (with lyrics about The Gulf War, 9/11, Iraq, and Afghanistan), recorded, and produced a video for the Johnny Cash classic “Ragged Old Flag” for NCOA (Non-Commissioned Officers Association) in Texas. The video premiered at the NCOA National conference in Las Vegas in July 2013 to rave reviews. Educators throughout America have used the video in the classroom to teach kids about the history of the U.S. flag. Early 2013 also brought an opportunity for Phil to view a private screening of an upcoming film titled, “The Hornet’s Nest” that was released in November 2013. At the request of the film’s producer, Phil sat down to write a song for the film with two colleagues. The end result was a moving song that Phil recorded for the film titled, “Tears Of War” that is included on the official soundtrack alongside Wynonna, Kidd Rock, Stevie Nicks, and others. 2016 brought the release of “Bad Habit” and a whirlwind tour including a large Military Gala in Hawaii. Since the release of his last album, Phil has continued touring, writing, recording, and extensive charity work. Phil served on his local school board helping to lead his community through positive action. Phil and his wife, Joy, attended and completed the Medal of Honor Character Development Program Training in Florida and Phil currently serves on the board for Tribute to Valor, a military organization impacting kids by bringing STEAM-focused programs into schools and by bringing kids to NASA aboard US Air Force C-130 airplanes. Phil wrote and recorded the theme song for the organization titled, “Who Am I?” Phil’s faith and belief in God is a big part of his life and when he isn’t out touring, he volunteers at his church (Grace Calvary Chapel -St. Joseph, MO) as a musician, singer, and fill-in worship leader.
Phil has performed at concerts and events with countless musical artists and actors including: Charlie Daniels, Mo Pitney, Brad Paisley, Tim McGraw, Montgomery / Gentry, Gary Allen, Diamond Rio, Aaron Tippin, Love & Theft, Keith Anderson, Colt Ford, Wade Bowen, Tony Orlando, Marty Stuart, Larry The Cable Guy, John Ratzenberger, Darryl Worley, Del Reeves, Kitty Wells, Hank Thompson, 3 Dog Night, Brewer & Shipley, Ricochet, Chad Brock, Tracy Byrd, Mark Collie, David Kersh, Little Big Town, Dierks Bentley, Johnny Lee, Stephen Pride, Lee Roy Van Dyke, Ricky Skaggs, Mike Schneider (Hee Haw), Phat Strad, The Platters, Shenandoah, Whey Jennings, John Anderson, John Michael Montgomery, Christopher Cross, Tate Stephens, The Lennon Sisters, Barbara Fairchild, Georgette Jones, Carter’s Chord, Jessica Harp (The Wreckers), Pitbull, Michael Peterson, Buddy Jewel, Rex Allen, Jr., The Beach Boys, Trent Tomlinson, Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band, Clint Black, Lee Greenwood, Billy Bob Thorton & The Boxmasters, and many others…
Phil proudly supports, sponsors, and/or endorses: Tribute to Valor, American Airlines, Medal Of Honor Society, Gary Sinise Foundation, Snowball Express, F.I.S.H., Still Serving Promos, Grace Calvary Chapel Missions & Ministry, Elixir Guitar Strings, Westone In-Ear Monitors, G7th Capos, Kemper Profilers, Barefoot Buttons, Jim Carlson Custom Guitars, and Glaser B&G String Benders.


Larry Milton
Larry
Milton
Larry Milton
Mayor Milton’s experience includes tackling both small business challenges as well as large business hurdles. Larry has extensive knowledge about Branson’s entertainment and lodging industry as he and his wife owned the Branson Tourism Center and Branson.com. During this time they sold in excess of 4 million show and attraction tickets and more than 800,000 lodging nights in Branson. This experience has allowed him to build strong ties to Branson’s various industries and gives him a unique perspective into the issues facing Branson.
Mayor Milton is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and has a passion for honoring our nation’s veterans. He co-created and sponsored the “Hand in Hand” Branson Honors Purple Heart Recipients event which was held in Branson for 10 years. The event honored and celebrated Purple Heart recipients and their families from across the country. Larry currently serves on the Board of Directors for Tribute to Valor Foundation.
As Mayor, Larry is focused on creating a transparent and welcoming environment at City Hall. He believes in people-focused leadership and listening before making decisions. He knows that the government exists to serve you, the people.
Larry has been married to his wife Lianne, for over 24 years and has one son and two granddaughters. He is humbled to serve as Mayor and excited to move forward together as one Branson.
Advisory Boards
Advisory Boards
ADVISORY
BOARDS
- Leroy Petry
- Steve Pidgeon
- Lee Shaw
- Mike Quintanilla
- Jim Thomason
- Diane Jackson
- Phil Vandel
- Susan Norris
- William Blalock
- Kim Peysha
- Judy Horne
- Kelly Massey
- Brian Anderson
- Donna Groves
- Josh French
- Michael Hix
- Stephanie Lanier
- Deborah Newman
- Tiffany Eckert
- Tricia Palmersheim
- John Craft
- Joy Vandel
- Rishi Sharma
- Martha Cothren
- Leroy Petry
- Steve Pidgeon
- Lee Shaw
- Mike Quintanilla
- Jim Thomason
- Diane Jackson
- Susan Norris
- William Blalock
- Kim Peysha
- Judy Horne
- Kelly Massey
- Brian Anderson
- Donna Groves
- Josh French
- Michael Hix
- Stephanie Lanier
- Deborah Newman
- Tiffany Eckert
- Tricia Palmersheim
- John Craft
- Joy Vandel
- Rishi Sharma
- Martha Cothren
- Leroy Petry
- Steve Pidgeon
- Lee Shaw
- Mike Quintanilla
- Jim Thomason
- Diane Jackson
- Susan Norris
- William Blalock
- Kim Peysha
- Judy Horne
- Kelly Massey
- Brian Anderson
- Donna Groves
- Josh French
- Michael Hix
- Stephanie Lanier
- Deborah Newman
- Tiffany Eckert
- Tricia Palmersheim
- John Craft
- Joy Vandel
- Rishi Sharma
- Martha Cothren
JOIN THE MISSION
JOIN THE
MISSION
Reflect on your values. Impact tomorrow’s leaders.
Who will YOU inspire?
Reflect on your values.
Impact tomorrow’s leaders.
Who will YOU inspire?
Reflect on your values. Impact tomorrow’s leaders.
Who will YOU inspire?