Maria was deployed to Balad, Camp Anaconda in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) from October 2005 to 2006. She served with the 266th Finance Command out of Germany where she was assigned to provide finance support to the Forward Operating Base. Maria joined IAVA's Storm the Hill Program in 2010, where she received invaluable leadership and networking skills. Maria is now an IAVA local leader who works to raise awareness about the challenges she and other veterans face finding full-time employment during the economic crisis.

After joining the Marine Corps in 2000, Anthony served his country honorably, deploying to Iraq twice. Following his military career, Anthony enrolled at Westminster College. Using his Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, Anthony saved $45,000 towards tuition and additional costs and received his Bachelor of Science degree. Anthony joined IAVA to advocate on behalf of his fellow veterans during Storm the Hill 2010, worked for IAVA as an intern, and has since become an integral staff member serving IAVA's national membership.

Sherman Watson joined the Marine Corps in June of 2002 and served with the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He deployed to Iraq on three different occasions, serving one ten month and two seven month tours. He sustained several injuries during his deployments, and suffered a Traumatic Brain injury in 2006 when his vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb. After returning home, Sherman struggled with his TBI and the isolation that many veterans face living with invisible wounds. Since becoming an IAVA Member, however, Sherman has participated in events across the country and has shared his story with millions from California to Capitol Hill. He currently resides in California with his wife and two daughters. He recently threw out the first pitch at an LA Dodgers game as an IAVA representative.