Seats for Soldiers Program | Raiders.com

Patrick Baja joined the Marine Corps on July 5, 1996, just 6 weeks after graduating high school. He attended boot camp in MRCD San Diego as part of Platoon 1083, Delta Company, 1^st Recruit Training Battalion. 13 weeks later, he graduated as Private First Class.

After 6 years, he received an Honorable Discharge from the Marine Corps. In September 2024, he founded Vegas Elite Cleaners LLC. Being passionate about helping fellow veterans, he started an initiative within the company called "Operation Giveback" in February 2025. The initiative focuses on helping senior Veterans with mobility issues clean their homes for free, with the help of volunteers. Since February 2025, he has helped over 15 families and veterans with not only cleaning, but also providing electric scooters and wheelchairs for FREE.

In April 2025, he raised $2,000 to have a taco catering company feed homeless veterans for free at the US Vets facility. To this day, he continues to help Senior Veterans with cleaning every two weeks and plans multiple events for veterans across the Las Vegas Valley.

Malcolm Blue grew up in a Navy family and moved to Las Vegas in the early 1960s, graduating from Rancho High School before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in 1965. Shortly after completing boot camp, he deployed to Vietnam as an Ontos driver with the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines. Over the course of his two combat tours, he earned two Purple Hearts—one during Operation Starlite and another during Operation Union—and was later awarded the Bronze Star for actions that saved the lives of his crew. Malcolm rose to the rank of Sergeant and concluded his Marine Corps service as a Track School instructor at Camp Pendleton.

Malcolm's dedication to service continued long after his time in the Marines. In 2000, along with a small group of fellow Marines, founded the Marine Riders of Las Vegas, creating a community for Marines and Navy Corpsmen while supporting local efforts such as the Marine Corps League and Toys for Tots. He is also an active contributor at Branded One CrossFit, where he regularly volunteers and recently took on the full barbecue effort for a Memorial Day event honoring Navy SEAL Lt. Michael P. Murphy. Malcolm represents the best in all of us and is a great example of prioritizing teamwork, a positive attitude, and community service.

Staff Sergeant Gary Bordman began his United States Air Force career in 1986 and served in mission critical roles across multiple bases. He supported C‑5 and C‑141 aircraft at Rhine Air Base in Germany during the Desert Storm era. At Dyess Air Force Base, he helped establish a forward supply location in support of the B‑1 bomber mission, ensuring mission essential aircraft parts were handled efficiently and on time. At Nellis Air Force Base, he was assigned to the 99th Ground Combat Training Flight, Silver Flag Alpha, supporting real world desert warfare training for service members preparing to deploy. After separating from the Air Force in 1999, Gary built a successful civilian career as an event professional, earning his Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP) and Certified Professional in Guest Experience (CPGE) credentials. He was recently honored as Veteran Owned Business of the Year by the Southern Nevada Veteran's Chamber of Commerce.

Gary's commitment to service continues through his leadership and community involvement. As the owner of a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business, he donates his time, talent, and resources to veteran causes across Southern Nevada. He is a dedicated supporter of the Kline Veterans Fund and is known for stepping in wherever he is needed, from event coordination to sponsorship support. Gary embodies true teamwork by bringing people together to accomplish shared goals and celebrates the success of others as much as his own. His positive attitude is contagious, helping create an environment where people feel valued and motivated.

Mike Breen has served fifteen years in the United States Air Force as a Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) member, including two deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011 and 2012. He is an Air National Guard TACP noncommissioned officer with the 116th Air Support Operations Squadron and a Department of the Air Force civilian at the 6th Combat Training Squadron (CTS) at Nellis Air Force Base, where he manages the TACP Initial Qualification Course. He previously led the course as Flight Chief and was selected as an additional duty first sergeant, providing mentorship and stepping in during difficult moments to support his squadron. He holds an Executive MBA from UNLV and is a two-time 6th CTS Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.

Mike is known for elevating training and building teams. He helped the 6th CTS earn recognition for the best curriculum seen to date during two Joint Terminal Attack Controller program accreditations and fosters real time coaching and integrated training across units. In the community, he coached youth flag football at Freedom Classical Academy with a focus on leadership and character, volunteered extensively with the Just One Project's pop-up farmers markets, and served as an Air Force ambassador to at risk youth. His steady leadership, service, and commitment to others are evident on duty and across Southern Nevada.

Staff Sergeant Daniel Bucher began his military career in 2011 as a member of the United States Air Force Honor Guard, performing ceremonies and honoring the fallen at Arlington National Cemetery. He later retrained as a Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) member in Air Force Special Warfare, completing two deployments and earning multiple commendations, including three Air Force Commendation Medals, two Air Force Achievement Medals, and an Army Achievement Medal. He currently serves at Nellis Air Force Base as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller Instructor and has completed numerous professional military education courses as well as his Community College of the Air Force degree in military operational art and science.

Daniel is known for his professionalism, humility, and unwavering commitment to service. He exemplifies teamwork and dedication in his daily performance and recently volunteered to escort a fallen unit member home, serving as both the escort and the Air Force liaison for the family. Off duty, he mentors youth, supports local initiatives, and volunteers within the community. He also organized a fundraising event for the TACP Association that raised more than $950 to support families of fallen TACPs. His positive attitude, compassion, and willingness to step forward for others reflect the character of a trusted leader on and off duty.

Technical Sergeant Dyson Clement is a Henderson, Nevada native who has built a strong record of service in the United States Air Force. Stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf‑Richardson in Alaska, he leads the 3d Munitions Squadron's Futures Section, guiding innovative IT, construction, and research projects that support readiness in the Pacific theater. He coordinated the Air Force's first munitions sling‑loading operation and contributed to planning the base's $2 billion Weapons Generation Complex. His achievements have earned him two Air Force Commendation Medals, two Air Force Achievement Medals, the 3d Wing's NCO of the Quarter award, and selection for Officer Training School. Dyson graduated magna cum laude from the University of Arizona and received a master's degree in public administration at Cornell University.

Outside of his military duties, Dyson is an active and committed community leader. He was elected mayor of the installation's largest residential community, where he represented 1,700 residents and championed improvements in safety, renovation, and environmental stewardship. His work earned recognition from the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force. Dyson is motivated by service, innovation, and a desire to leave a better world for his son, and he continues to make a meaningful difference both on duty and in the community.

Gabby Cote proudly served seven years in the United States Air Force as an Operations Resource Management Specialist, a role essential to flight operations and aircrew readiness. She managed aircrew records, coordinated training schedules, and supported flying missions across assignments at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, Keflavik Naval Air Station in Iceland, and Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas. During her service, she earned Senior Airman Below the Zone, received the American Defense Service Medal, and served on the Base Honor Guard while stationed in Iceland. After separating from the Air Force, Gabby continued to excel as a fitness professional, earning multiple certifications and becoming a competitive athlete, placing second in the Masters 50+ Figure division for the Organization for Competitive Body Builders in both 2022 and 2023.

Gabby's commitment to serving others extends deeply into her community. She has volunteered countless hours as a coach at Branded One CrossFit, consistently stepping in to cover classes and offering encouragement to athletes of all abilities. With more than 15 years of experience in fitness and nutrition, she specializes in working with aging athletes and developing mobility programs for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis. Her positive energy is well known among the gym's earliest morning athletes, who seek her out for her ability to motivate, support, and empower Disabled Service Members. Gabby's dedication, uplifting spirit, and passion for helping others make her a valued leader in the community.

Matthew DeFalco is an Army veteran who served as a Patriot Missile Operator and Maintainer during Operation Enduring Freedom. Stationed at Fort Bragg, he deployed in support of the War in Afghanistan and was responsible for operating and maintaining advanced air and missile defense systems. His dedication earned him several honors, including the Army Commendation Medal, multiple Army Achievement Medals, and campaign and service ribbons recognizing his contributions. After his military service, Matthew continued serving others as a firefighter with the Bureau of Land Management, protecting communities and natural resources across the American West. He now works as the Government Affairs and Community Relations Director for Olympia Companies, supporting master‑planned developments and guiding philanthropic efforts across Southern Nevada.

Matthew remains deeply involved in strengthening his community. He serves as the Vice President of Government Affairs for the Las Vegas Area Council of Scouting America, helping expand programs that build leadership and character in local youth. He also sits on the board of Leaders in Training, where he supports first‑generation college students as they work toward academic and professional success. Through his service, advocacy, and leadership, Matthew continues to make a meaningful impact on the region he calls home.

Chris Denham honorably served ten years in the United States Air Force, including deployments to Qatar in 2006 and Bagram, Afghanistan in 2008 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. As an aircraft mechanic working on F‑15 fighter jets, he played a vital role in maintaining mission‑ready aircraft, and he also served as a Physical Training Leader, ensuring fellow Airmen remained fit and prepared for duty. After separating from the Air Force as a disabled veteran, Chris continued building his expertise in fitness and coaching, earning CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 certifications, CPR and First Aid credentials, and an associate degree in communications. He now coaches at Branded One CrossFit and supports a local mixed martial arts gym as a strength and conditioning coach.

Chris is known for his positive attitude, patience, and dedication to helping others reach their potential. He has volunteered hundreds of hours at Branded One, developing programming for major events and working closely with adaptive athletes to tailor workouts to their needs. Chris takes time with each individual to understand their goals and limitations, creating an environment where disabled service members feel supported, capable, and encouraged. His compassion and commitment to improving the well‑being of others leave a lasting impact on every person he works with.

Staff Sergeant Gabriella Ingram enlisted in the United States Air Force after graduating high school a year early in Middletown, New York. She began her career as an Operations Intelligence Analyst, completing training at Lackland and Goodfellow Air Force Bases before joining the 89th Operations Support Squadron, where she earned Senior Airman Below the Zone. After four years in Intelligence, her desire to support Airmen led her to transition into the Religious Affairs career field. She has since served at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland and now works as the Readiness Noncommissioned Officer in Charge at Nellis Air Force Base. Throughout her career, she has earned recognition including MAJCOM Airman of the Year for 2023, Airman Leadership School Distinguished Graduate, Airman Leadership School Academic Achievement, and the Commandant Award.

SSgt Ingram is known for her compassion, steady leadership, and unwavering commitment to caring for others. She plays a key role within the Air Force Chaplain Corps, guiding her team to support eight wings at Nellis and strengthening resilience across the installation. Her dedication extends into the community as well, including organizing clothing and supply drives for displaced youth through Project 150 and partnering with the Air Force Sergeants Association to collect coats and essential items for homeless veterans. Her unwavering devotion and deep compassion show that caring for people is not just a responsibility, but a privilege.

Technical Sergeant Clinton Jenkins has served fifteen years in the United States Air Force as a highly skilled aircraft maintainer with experience across several major fighter platforms, including the F‑15 Eagle, F‑16 Fighting Falcon, and F‑22 Raptor. Throughout his career, he has deployed in support of multiple operations around the world, contributing to missions such as Operation Inherent Resolve, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Spartan Shield, Operation Allies Refuge, and Operation Atlas Guardian. His broad skill set and steady performance have made him a trusted expert across diverse mission environments and aircraft systems.

In addition to overseeing nine key group‑level programs, Clinton is committed to both professional growth and the well‑being of those he serves alongside. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a minor in Accounting, strengthening his leadership and organizational skills. During his most recent deployment, he planned and executed a USO morale tour that provided a meaningful break for more than 200 deployed personnel, demonstrating his initiative and compassion for his fellow Airmen. His dedication, teamwork, and consistent excellence have earned him numerous recognitions and reflect the character of a leader who serves with purpose on and off duty.

Staff Sergeant Leonel Llegado has served in the United States Air Force since 2018, excelling in roles across Eglin Air Force Base, Kunsan Air Base, and Nellis Air Force Base. His experience includes serving as an Assistant Dedicated Crew Chief, Dedicated Crew Chief, and Squadron Programs Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) in Charge, where he has been recognized for his technical expertise and leadership. SSgt Llegado has earned two Group‑level Dedicated Crew Chief awards and the NCO Staff Professional of the Year award. He is committed to continuous growth and holds a Community College of the Air Force degree, a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, and a master's degree in public administration.

Leonel demonstrates a strong commitment to teamwork, morale, and community service. He has been instrumental in securing resources and funding that directly support the well‑being and readiness of flightline personnel, positively impacting day‑to‑day operations within his unit. Outside of work, he volunteers in community clean‑up efforts throughout Las Vegas, helping maintain and improve shared spaces. His dedication, initiative, and service‑focused mindset reflect his desire to uplift both his team and the community he calls home.

Tom "Ghost" Martin is a United States Marine Corps veteran whose service includes deployments during the Malta Summit, Operation Desert Shield, and Operation Desert Storm. Throughout his service, he earned expert qualifications in rifle, pistol, and grenadier training, completed the HRST Master Course and Corporals Course, and received several commendations including the Southwest Asia Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with device, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon. His dedication to his fellow Marines and to the mission has remained a defining part of who he is.

After his military service, Tom became a well‑known figure in the veteran community as the owner of the Leatherneck Club, a gathering place that honors Marine Corps heritage and supports veterans across Las Vegas. Under his leadership, the Leatherneck Club was named the "2023 Southern Nevada Veterans Chamber of Commerce Veteran Owned Business of the Year" for its ongoing commitment to hosting events, supporting veteran organizations, and creating a space where service members and their families feel welcome and valued. Tom's continued devotion to uplifting veterans and strengthening community pride reflects the spirit of service he carries long after his military career.

Command Sergeant Major Frank McCabe dedicated 34 years of service to the United States Army, beginning with his first enlistment in 1963 and continuing through his retirement in 2003. His career included deployments to Southwest Asia in support of Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and he earned numerous distinctions, including the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Army Achievement Medal, among many others. In addition to his military service, Frank also retired from the New York City Transit Police Department, holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, and is a licensed practical nurse.

Even after retiring from active duty, Frank continues to serve others with the same dedication that defined his military career. He worked as an ambassador for the US Army's Salute Program, recognizing soldiers and their families who did not receive recognition after the Vietnam War and other conflicts. He also supported combat‑related special compensation efforts for retired Army veterans and volunteered with the Volunteer Homeland Reserve Unit, assisting local police departments as a force multiplier. Frank remains an example of lifelong service, community commitment, and unwavering support for his fellow veterans and service members.

Technical Sergeant Nicole Rodriguez‑Fernandez enlisted in the United States Air Force in 2018 and began her career as an MQ‑9 sensor operator in 2019. She provided overwatch and Close Air Support for Operation Freedom's Sentinel during her first assignment with the 42nd Attack Squadron at Creech Air Force Base. Nicole later served with the 17th Attack Squadron, where she earned Instructor and Evaluator qualifications before joining the Air Force Reserve with the 91st Attack Squadron. Over six years, she accumulated more than one thousand MQ‑9 flight hours supporting U.S. forces through intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. She has also served as the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of the 432nd Wing Professional Development Center and as an Integrated Resiliency Training Assistant. Her accomplishments have been recognized through several awards, including the Latina Style Distinguished Military Service Award, Squadron Enlisted Instructor of the Year, and Squadron Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.

Nicole is known for her leadership, initiative, and commitment to strengthening the Air Force community. She has played a key role in developing Airmen by overseeing hundreds of training hours, rewriting the Mission Qualification syllabus for the 732d Operations Group, and helping launch the wing's first Junior Enlisted Foundations Course, which shaped more than 120 Airmen. She has improved readiness through her management of training actions, recovery of critical data after loss, and implementation of effective tracking systems that enhanced instruction and mission execution. Beyond her on‑duty accomplishments, Nicole continues to invest in her own growth through professional military education and pursuit of a degree in Homeland Security. She also contributes to squadron morale through her involvement in the unit Booster Club and supports resiliency efforts as an Integrated Resiliency Training Assistant. Her dedication to excellence, teamwork, and community service embodies the qualities of a standout Airman.

Staff Sergeant Amber Ruchel‑Carter enlisted in the United States Air Force in 2018 and began her career as an Administrator after completing training at Lackland and Goodfellow Air Force Bases. She received her first assignment to the 509th Maintenance Squadron at Whiteman Air Force Base, where she earned Senior Airman Below‑the‑Zone and quickly assumed increasing responsibility. Over the next several years, she served at three installations, culminating in her role as the Commander's Support Staff Noncommissioned Officer in Charge, managing 50 programs directed by senior Department of Defense leadership. She now serves as an Administration Craftsman with the 44th Reconnaissance Squadron at Creech Air Force Base.

SSgt Ruchel‑Carter is a proven leader known for her professionalism, initiative, and commitment to her team. She led an eight‑member support staff overseeing administrative operations across four wings and multiple locations, played a key role in the inactivation of two rescue squadrons, and assisted in the relocation of more than 250 personnel. She also guided Airmen through outreach events with Junior ROTC programs, mentoring hundreds of local students and inspiring new enlistments. In addition, she helped coordinate a large‑scale active‑shooter exercise involving military, law enforcement, and community partners, strengthening crisis‑response readiness. Her dedication and service‑focused approach continue to positively shape her unit and community.

Senior Airman Suchet Thapa began his Air Force career in 2023 after immigrating to the United States from Nepal in 2021. He quickly distinguished himself, graduating as an Honor Graduate from Basic Military Training and a Distinguished Graduate from technical school. Upon arriving at Nellis Air Force Base, he completed his Career Development Courses in only 10 days, earning a Superior Performer award. As an engineer technician, he has supported major exercises such as Red Flag and Bamboo Eagle, contributed to Aviation Nation 2025, and led the planning and execution of the Super Bowl LVII community static aircraft display. His exceptional work ethic and performance have earned him Below‑the‑Zone promotion, Airman of the Quarter for 2024, and multiple Commander's Coins. Outside the Air Force, he holds a master's degree in cybersecurity and information assurance, earning four excellence awards while completing the program.

Suchet is known not only for his accomplishments but also for his drive to serve others and build strong teams. As Vice President of the Booster Club, he supported more than 600 Airmen and helped raise $25,000 to strengthen squadron morale and cohesion. He has volunteered over 60 hours at the Nellis Community Pantry, distributing thousands of food items to local families. He also motivated the airmen in his flight to participate in the Clark County School District's School Lunch Program, helping secure more than $17,000 for hundreds of schools and hundreds of thousands of students. Suchet sets the tone through his work ethic, compassion, and willingness to show up with purpose, no matter the task.

Dr. Christina "Chris" Thomas is a United States Air Force veteran, national policy advocate, civil and human rights activist, and Founder of the Veterans Advocacy Council CDC (VAC), established in 2022 and officially launched in 2023 after she served as Chair of the VA Mental Health Advocacy Council, championing initiatives that improve access to care and resources for veterans with mental health as a focus. VAC's inaugural initiative, the Hometown Veteran Block Party, introduced a community reintegration model expanding across Nevada, followed by the Multicultural Military Pinning & Military History Presentation honoring historically under-recognized service members.

After serving six years in the U.S. Air Force as a Combat Logistics Support Specialist with the 649th at Hill Air Force Base and the 46th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, deploying in OEF/OIF her exceptional performance earned her Below‑the‑Zone promotion and recognition for uncovering critical intelligence during deployment. After Chris was medically retired as an E-5, she continued her education, completing an associate degree in logistics, a bachelor's degree in management, and later an MBA while working with the Defense Logistics Agency. 

Her leadership spans national and state policy in mental health crisis prevention, suicide prevention and lethal means safety, military sexual trauma reform, cannabis access for patients and veterans, whole health and integrative medicine, and women's health equity. She partners with local, state, and federal officials in advisory and community development capacities, advancing systems reform grounded in civil and human rights.

In addition to her policy work, Dr. Thomas holds certifications in alternative medicine and mind-body-spirit practice, Nevada Board Certified Peer Support Specialist Supervisor. She provides pro bono services since 2020 to individuals navigating trauma, reintegration, and recovery — intentionally filling care gaps where traditional systems fall short.

Dr. Thomas is recognized for transforming lived experience into structural change — building coordinated ecosystems that protect vulnerable populations and ensure dignity, equity, and access to care.

Master Sergeant Janel Travis began her Air Force career as a satellite communications technician before transitioning to Cyber Warfare Operations, where she defended critical Department of Defense networks against emerging cyber threats. With over two decades of service, she achieved her long‑time goal of becoming a First Sergeant, advising commanders on morale, welfare, discipline, and readiness. Throughout her career, MSgt Travis has consistently excelled, earning early promotion to Senior Airman Below‑the‑Zone, multiple academic honors, and several group‑level awards. Her achievements also include the Pittsenbarger Award at both of her associate degree commencements, recognition in four intermediate cyber courses, Distinguished Graduate of the First Sergeant Academy, and selection as the 24th Air Force Cyber Warfare Information Dominance Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. She was also awarded the Air and Space Achievement Medal for her life‑saving response to a civilian vehicle accident.

Janel is recognized for her leadership, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to serving both her Air Force community and the public. She has co‑chaired more than 30 professional development seminars and Airman Leadership School panels, sharing her experience with thousands of Airmen across multiple wings and squadrons. As a First Sergeant, she advised five commanders and supported over 500 personnel while contributing to dozens of unit and individual awards. Her community service includes leading volunteer efforts at a food bank, providing disaster relief following a tornado, partnering with the Red Cross, facilitating suicide intervention training, and spearheading Angel Tree and Adopt‑A‑Family initiatives. She also led a team of 120 volunteers during an air show, serving tens of thousands of meals and fostering strong community partnerships. Her commitment to helping others continues to leave a meaningful impact everywhere she serves.

Captain Matthew Williams has served more than seventeen years in the United States Air Force, beginning his career as a Security Forces specialist before transitioning into intelligence and later commissioning as a pilot. During his enlisted years, he deployed to Iraq, earned Noncommissioned Officer of the Year in 2017, and graduated distinguished from intelligence training. His versatility and adaptability were repeatedly demonstrated, including a short‑notice deployment to Korea and completing his bachelor's degree while serving full time. After commissioning in 2019, he excelled in pilot training, earning the top pilot award, and continues to advance professionally while working toward his MBA. His experience across security, intelligence, and aviation gives him a comprehensive understanding of Air Force operations.

Matthew is known for his leadership, positive attitude, and dedication to both his team and his community. Under his guidance, his Airmen earned multiple quarterly and annual awards, contributing to his section receiving five "Team of the Year" recognitions. His volunteer work reflects the same commitment, including more than 2,400 hours supporting a dog rescue center, fostering fourteen dogs, and helping rehome thirty more across a large region. He also organized wing events focused on spiritual and family readiness and became the youngest member of his unit to complete Vault Storage Area Nuclear Supervisor training, leading a 32‑person team responsible for safeguarding strategic assets. Captain Williams' positive attitude and dedication to service remain at the core of his values as he continues to serve with distinction.