The Reserve Organization of America is proud to celebrate one of our distinguished leaders, retired Lt. Col. Hazel L. Robinson, U.S. Army Reserve, has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Flagship Alumni Award from the Howard University College of Arts and Sciences.
This remarkable recognition, specifically the Power of Impact Award, celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and exemplify the values of excellence, service, and leadership.
A Journey of Purpose and Impact
Hazel's story is one of determination, purpose, and unwavering commitment to service. Born on December 10 in Plant City, Florida, she navigated her formative years through various educational institutions including Simmons Elementary, Marshall Junior High School, Tomlin Junior High School, Turkey Creek Senior High School, and Plant City High School. Her academic excellence was evident early on when she graduated from Plant City High School in June 1975 with honors.
That same August, Hazel embarked on what she describes as her "life mission" at Howard University, setting the foundation for a lifetime of impactful service and leadership.
Commitment to Educational Excellence
Hazel's dedication to education extends far beyond her own academic achievements. Through the Elouise Rice Robinson Memorial Scholarship, she has created lasting opportunities for graduating seniors of African-American heritage across Florida, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.
This scholarship program specifically recognizes students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance, personal accomplishment, and community impact – values that clearly reflect Hazel's own journey and principles.
The scholarship helps defray the costs of higher education for deserving students, ensuring that financial barriers don't prevent talented individuals from pursuing their educational goals and making their own positive impact on society.
Recognition Well Deserved
The Howard University College of Arts and Sciences Flagship Alumni Award represents one of the institution's highest honors for graduates who have distinguished themselves through their professional achievements and community service. The Power of Impact Award specifically recognizes alumni whose work has created meaningful, lasting change in their communities and beyond.
This recognition is particularly fitting for Hazel, whose multifaceted approach to service encompasses education, philanthropy, and community leadership. Her ongoing events and community engagement demonstrate a sustained commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
A Legacy of Service
As we celebrate this well-deserved recognition, we're reminded that true leadership is measured not just by personal achievements, but by the positive impact one has on others. Hazel Robinson embodies this principle through her scholarship work, community involvement, and continued dedication to creating opportunities for others to succeed.
We look forward to continuing to witness the positive impact of her leadership and service for years to come.
Congratulations, President Robinson – this honor is truly well deserved!
The Reserve Organization of America was honored to accept the Marine Corps Reserve Association’s invitation to attend the 250th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in the beautiful city of Corpus Christi, hosted by the historic Carlos Company—a unit whose enduring legacy of discipline, readiness, and service continues to define the Marine Corps Reserve.
ROA Director of Legislation Matthew Schwartzman was privileged to witness retired Lance Corporal and Purple Heart recipient Jeremy Williams—MCRA’s Vice President of Legislative Affairs—deliver a powerful keynote address highlighting the essential elements and lessons learned from combat, and how they translate directly to readiness and resilience in today’s force.
ROA extends its sincere appreciation to MCRA for the invitation, its deep respect for the sacrifice embodied by Marines like Lance Corporal Williams, and its optimism that the strong and growing partnership between ROA and MCRA will continue to advance the interests of the Reserve Component in the years ahead.
The latest “Ground Truth” discussion brought together an impressive lineup of leaders and experts to tackle issues affecting today’s Reserve and National Guard communities.
Maj. Gen. (Ret.) John Hashem, newly appointed executive director of the Reserve Organization of America (ROA), helped convene this special session alongside Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Francis McGinn, president of the National Guard Bureau of the United States; Wen Liu, senior policy analyst in the Office of Servicemember Affairs at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; and Dr. Emily Becher, senior director of research and evaluation at Blue Star Families.
"While the reserve components are really essential for national defense, and a true bargain for the taxpayer... each of our members exists in kind of a fragile state between their civilian life and their military obligations," said Hashem.
Together, they explored the evolving challenges facing service members and families—from the operational demands on the National Guard to the growing threat of financial scams targeting military households. The conversation underscored the need for continued collaboration between government agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations to strengthen financial resilience and family readiness across the force.
ROA extends its sincere thanks to Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Hashem for his leadership in bringing this important discussion to life. Appointed in September as ROA’s executive director, Hashem continues to advance ROA’s mission of advocacy, education, and connection for America’s reserve components. Please join us in giving him a warm welcome to the Collaborative.
Posted By Col. Ihor “Iggi” W. Husar, U.S. Army (Ret.),
Friday, October 31, 2025
Sgt. First Class Karl Whitby and I attended the annual mandatory Air Force IRR Muster. We had a recruiting table with the department table throw. During our 15-minute time slot, I gave the reservists an orientation on the mission of ROA. Sixty-two reservists attended the event.
Posted By Retired Col. Mark W. Griffith, U.S. Army,
Friday, October 31, 2025
Photo Credit: Retired Col. Mark W. Griffith, U.S. Army | See full album on Flickr.
The Reserve Organization of America (ROA) reaffirmed its leadership in transatlantic defense cooperation during the Strategic Security Seminar, held Sept. 25–27, 2025, at Norwich University.
The event, themed “NATO and Its Reserves in Times of Crisis and War,” brought together more than 40 participants, including senior military leaders, academics, cadets, and guest lecturers from the United States and Europe.
Over three days, attendees examined how reserve forces contribute to NATO’s readiness and resilience in an increasingly complex global security environment.
The seminar advanced ROA’s mission to foster international dialogue and strengthen understanding of the reserve component’s role in collective defense. Expert presentations by Col. Chuck Moulton, Maj. Robert Bozydaj, and Dr. Bill Lyons highlighted the
strategic adaptability of reserve formations in hybrid warfare, civil defense, and multinational operations.
Their remarks emphasized that reservists are not just a support element but a critical force multiplier for both national and allied defense. One of the seminar’s most notable moments came when Norwich University cadets presented findings from their Baltics
Field Study to senior officers and faculty.
Their briefing on NATO posture, hybrid threats, and alliance cohesion reflected the next generation’s deepening understanding of strategic security challenges. The exchange underscored ROA’s commitment to mentoring future leaders and promoting professional
military education.
The collaboration with Norwich University—the birthplace of ROTC and a historic leader in military education—reinforced a shared commitment to service, leadership, and resilience.
Both institutions continue to build partnerships that strengthen the professional development of reserve and active-duty personnel alike.
Beyond briefings and discussions, participants also engaged in cultural and social activities, including a museum visit, a Norwich football game, and a dinner cruise. These moments fostered camaraderie and connection, reinforcing the human bonds that
sustain effective alliances.
By the close of the seminar, ROA had successfully advanced its role as a convener of thought leadership on reserve force integration and transatlantic defense cooperation.
The event elevated awareness of the strategic importance of reserve forces and laid the groundwork for future collaboration and joint initiatives. As global security challenges evolve, ROA remains committed to uniting military professionals, scholars,
and future leaders in advancing the cause of national defense—at home and alongside NATO allies.
Posted By Col. Judi Davenport, U.S. Army retired,
Friday, October 31, 2025
The 2025 Medal of Honor Society annual celebration (meeting) was held in Chattanooga Sept. 29 to Oct. 4, 2025, and members of ROA’s Tennessee Department were there to volunteer.
Out of the 3,500 individuals awarded the medal there are 61 living Medal of Honor Recipients with 39 registered for the event. This prestigious event is held every year with cities bidding for selection.
The celebration this year in Chattanooga consisted of many exciting events to include a special historic train ride provided by CSX from Atlanta (Kennesaw to Ringgold) re-enacting The Great Locomotive Chase - the action by Andrews’ Raiders, April 12, 1862, that led to the awarding of the very first Medals of Honor on March 25, 1863.
Other events around the surrounding area included Rock City, the Incline, Ruby Falls, Coker Museum, Tennessee Aquarium, and the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center.
The Medal of Honor Recipients, friends and family meet with schoolchildren, veterans groups, active duty soldiers, police and firefighters, community and civic leaders. Their presence reminded us of their core values Courage, Commitment, Sacrifice, Integrity, Citizenship, and Patriotism.
The Medal of Honor Society Celebration culminated with a Patriot Awards Gala. The Masters of Ceremonies a native Tennessean Gary Sinise, Chairman of the Gary Sinise Foundation and long time supporter of the military and veterans.
The Gala was an opportunity for the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, chartered by Congress in 1958 with membership limited to those that wear the Medal of Honor, to recognize those who live in service beyond self. The three prestigious awards went to Johnny “Joey” Jones (Excellence in Journalism), John Rich of Big and Rich (Excellence in Entertainment), and the Honorable Robert Gates (Patriot Award).
The program concluded with the passing of the Flag to Detroit, MI the host of the 2026 Medal of Honor Society Celebration. Entertainment was provided by the Lieutenant Dan Band.
May we never forget that the Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest, and rarest, military decoration is bestowed to those in the armed forces who distinguish themselves through “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of “their” lives above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in action against the enemy of the United States.”
It was a privilege to have this event in Chattanooga, the Birthplace of the Medal of Honor.
Pictured above from left are: Doug Gilbert, department of Tenn. ESGR, incoming Tenn. President Judi Davenport (volunteer Tenn. Valley VA, Chatt Vet Advisory Council, MOAA), and Scott Hardin Secretary and Treasurer (ESGR Volunteer, VA, MOAA, and Chatt Vet Advisory Council).
Pictured above from left are John Davenport, Mauhee Edmondson (Department of Kentucky), Judi Davenport, and Scott Hardin (volunteers at the Medal of Honor Gala annual celebration). Other ROA members who attended but are not pictured: Maj. Gen. Bill Raines and Ray Adkins.
Pictured above are Judi Davenport (Medal of Honor volunteer, VA, Boyd, MOAA), Susan Hardin (ROA family support, VA volunteer, Wreaths Across America Chattanooga, MOH volunteer, Chatt Vet Council), and John Davenport (MOH volunteer, Chatt Vet Advisory Council) working with the Hixson Junior ROTC volunteers.
Pictured above are John and Judi with Medal of Honor Recipient Kenneth David at the Hospitality room. Kenneth is the latest recipient to receive the medal (before him was our very own Chattanooga resident Larry Taylor). It took Kenneth and those advocating for him and his heroic actions 54 years to receive the medal (never give up).
Pictured above are John and Judi Davenport at the MOH annual celebration hospitality desk getting instruction from retired judge Shelley Vey, chair of more than 130 MOH Volunteers.
Posted By Lt. Col. Mark Vardaro and Richard Stephens, Jr.,
Friday, October 31, 2025
September was National Suicide Awareness month and what better way to spread awareness than with a 22-day push-up challenge!
The challenge is being sponsored by the Oklahoma Chapter of the Department of the Southeast (DOTS) to help provide outreach and support to veterans in need.
It is being facilitated by Amy Guillory, director of the wing’s Psychological Health Program. “The Challenge is a great way for us to reach out and support one another’s mental and physical health,” said Guillory. “Veterans of all ranks experience challenges on a daily basis and this program shows our commitment to helping each other in times of need.”
The challenge kicked off on Sept. 7, after a Wing All Hands assembly featuring “1 Degree of Separation,” a group of four stand-up comedians. The show highlighted suicide awareness by blending comedy with some very real heartfelt discussions of suicide and how to help prevent it. Immediately after the assembly, Col Douglas Brader, 507 ARW Vice-Commander, launched the challenge by leading participants in their first day of push-ups outside the base theater.
Leading ROA’s sponsorship is former Mission Support Group Vice Commander Lt Col (Ret) Richard Stephens, Jr. “The ROA is committed to ensuring Reserve readiness and that all starts with our Airmen,” said Stephens. “The push-up Challenge is a way that we can show support and encourage veterans to seek the help they need to stay safe and remain ready for the operational mission”.
The Challenge is being documented on the wing’s “Reach Your Peak” health and fitness GroupMe site. After the first week of the challenge, Reservists completed over 1,430 pushups. Each participant records and posts their pushups on the site, encouraging each other with a variety of emojis and messaging interactions.
Col. Ryan Brader leads the launch of the 22For22 Push-up Challenge. Joined by retired Lt. Col. Richard Stephens, the Challenge seeks to raise awareness to help deter veteran suicide.
Lt. Col. Mark Vardaro, 507 ARW Chief of Staff, aka, “The Beast,” completes another day's 22 push-ups. The Oklahoma Chapter started its 22 Days of Service in Sep 2025.
Posted By Trey Criner, Director of Operations,
Friday, October 31, 2025
On October 17, 2025, the Doughboy Foundation, whose mission is to Keep Faith with the American Doughboy, continued its commitment to honor the 4.7 million Americans who served in uniform during World War I by sounding Taps daily at 5 p.m.
at the National World War I Memorial.
On this evening, the Doughboy Foundation hosted 36 representatives from the Reserve Organization of America (ROA) at the memorial for a wreath-laying ceremony honoring General John J. Pershing, followed by the sounding of Daily Taps.
Outgoing ROA National
President Layne Wroblewski and incoming President Peggy Wilmoth had the honor of laying the wreath in tribute to General Pershing and the service of all American Doughboys.
The event highlighted the enduring legacy of WWI service members and reinforced the partnership between ROA and the Doughboy Foundation in preserving the memory and sacrifices of those who served.
Posted By Trey Criner, Director of Operations,
Friday, October 31, 2025
As we approach Giving Tuesday on December 2, we invite you to stand with us in strengthening the voice and impact of our Reserve and National Guard community.
For over a century, the Reserve Officers Association has championed the rights, readiness, and recognition of our nation’s citizen-warriors. From advocating for fair benefits and policies to providing professional development and support, ROA remains steadfast in its mission — but we can’t do it without you.
This Giving Tuesday, your support will:
Empower our advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill
Expand professional resources for reservists and their families
Strengthen our ability to protect and promote the interests of those who serve
Every contribution, no matter the size, fuels our shared mission.
Together, we can ensure that the voices of our service members are heard loud and clear.
Posted By John Hashem, Executive Director,
Friday, October 31, 2025
Photo Credit: McKinley Williams | Full album is available on ROA's Flickr account.
The Reserve Organization of America’s 2025 Annual Meeting united members, leaders, and advocates from across the nation for four days of focused action. The event showcased ROA’s growing influence, sharpened its legislative priorities, and reaffirmed
its mission to strengthen the Total Force through informed, strategic advocacy. It was a powerful opportunity to meet many of our dedicated members and witness the transition of ROA’s national leadership.
ROA opened the week with its first Excellence in Legislative Readiness Awards Reception, honoring congressional staff and partners who have advanced Reserve Component readiness and veteran policy. Honorees included key staff from Representatives Derrick
Van Orden and Barry Loudermilk, along with former ROA policy fellows now shaping national defense policy. The evening underscored how professional relationships and disciplined advocacy produce real results for reservists, guardsmen, and their families.
The next day, ROA members descended upon Capitol Hill for Advocacy Day 2025, meeting with more than 150 congressional offices across 20 states. The government shutdown only strengthened our resolve. Teams advanced key legislative goals—protecting servicemember
pay during shutdowns, improving Reserve dental readiness, defending Air Force Reserve attack and airlift missions, and securing presumptive toxic exposure benefits for 9/11 Pentagon responders. The effort reflected ROA’s operational strength and its
ability to deliver under pressure.
That evening, ROA joined the Doughboy Foundation at the National World War I Memorial for a wreath-laying ceremony honoring General John J. Pershing and the 4.7 million Americans who served in the Great War. Outgoing President Layne Wroblewski and incoming
President Peggy Wilmoth laid the wreath on behalf of ROA, linking the valor of the “citizen-soldier” of 1918 to today’s citizen-warrior. The ceremony closed the day with reflection and purpose—affirming the continuity of service across generations.
On Saturday, ROA hosted two defining panel discussions. The first, “Current and Future Planning for Helicopters and Aero Combat Casualty Evacuation During Large-Scale Land Combat Operations,” confronted the Army’s plan to eliminate all Army Reserve rotary-wing
aviation units by October 2026—removing 141 Black Hawks, 4,400 Soldiers, 600 civilians, and 12 aviation facilities nationwide.
I moderated the session, joined by senior aviation and aeromedical experts who examined how the Army’s transformation risks erasing critical strategic depth in combat casualty evacuation, homeland response, and sustainment operations. While modernization
and unmanned systems promise new capabilities, panelists agreed that eliminating Reserve aviation will create gaps that could take years to rebuild, weakening both national and domestic response capacity.
In direct response, ROA delegates voted unanimously to adopt a legislative resolution supporting Senator Ted Cruz’s RESCUE Act—a measure designed to preserve joint force aeromedical evacuation capability. The resolution commits ROA to championing MEDEVAC
and related aviation functions within the Reserve Component, ensuring that highly skilled aviators, medics, and maintainers remain integral to the Total Force.
The second panel, “Advocates in the Arena,” examined how advocacy must evolve in a fast-moving, media-driven Congress. Led by ROA Director of Legislation and Military Policy Matthew Schwartzman, the discussion featured senior leaders from the Services,
MOAA, NMFA, FRA, NDC, and MCRA.
Panelists reflected on how today’s Congress operates differently; shifting power structures, constrained resources, rapid communication, and constant public visibility. They emphasized storytelling, speed, and accountability as central to modern influence.
Several Reserve Component leaders noted how RC issues often fall behind larger defense priorities, reinforcing the need for persistent advocacy to keep the Reserve visible and valued. The discussion provided members with practical tools to turn engagement
into strategic impact, connecting national defense priorities to the real lives of servicemembers and families.
We held our prestigious joint awards ceremony for organizational, service and excellence in communications awards. This distinguished awards ceremony recognized those whose dedication, leadership, and service made a lasting impact.
Sunday began with an inspirational and respect service and tribute to our fallen comrades and concluded with the adoption of a key governance reform, renaming ROA’s Executive Committee to the Board of Directors, followed by the installation of National
President Maj Gen (Ret.) Peggy Wilmoth, Army National Vice President Tony Kanellis, USA (Ret.), Air Force National Vice President Col Don Brown USAF (Ret.), and Naval Services VP CAPT Henry Plimack, USCGR (Ret.).
In all, the 2025 Annual Meeting captured ROA in full stride as the premier military service organization of the reserve components, their members, families, and veterans.
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The Reserve Organization of America is proud to celebrate one of our distinguished leaders, retired Lt. Col. Hazel L. Robinson, U.S. Army Reserve, has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Flagship Alumni Award from the 
The latest “Ground Truth” discussion brought together an impressive lineup of leaders and experts to tackle issues affecting today’s Reserve and National Guard communities.
