Zack Kreisheimer

• Branch: Army
• Years Served: 10
• Rank: Sergeant
• Military Occupation: Combat Medic
• Hometown: Gilbert, AZ
• Twitter Handle: @zack_kreish

Tell us a little about you outside of the military:

I am the Director of Sales for the Sonesta Select Brand in Arizona. I have a beautiful fiancée, Tina, and a 5-year-old son, George. I love to golf and spend time with my family and friends.

Why are you participating in the fly-in with IAVA?

I want to give a voice to the veterans who feel unheard in the community. Having personally battled mental illness, which once crippled me, I want to ensure that no veteran ever reaches those lows. I am here to show them that they have a voice, and I am here for them!

How did your military experience shape you to be the person you are today?

My military experience shaped me into the man I am today. It taught me discipline, patience, and mental fortitude, which helped me overcome some of life’s toughest obstacles. I am deeply thankful for the military and how it shaped me into the man, father, and future husband I am today.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you believe is the most pressing? Why?

I believe that combating veteran suicide and modernizing the use of alternative therapies are the most pressing priorities. Therapies like EMDR helped me tremendously with PTSD during my darkest days. New studies show these therapies work, and they should be approved by the VA to help more veterans.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you have the strongest personal connection to? Why?

Veteran suicide is the issue I have the strongest personal connection to. I have had to bury too many friends who lost their battle with demons and took their own lives. The statistics are staggering, and I hold this issue close to my heart. I want to find a way to stop this significant problem we face.