The American Veterans Mission (AVM) wants to thank Aaron Mandzak for continuing to serve as one of our directors. Being geographically located more than a thousand miles away and serving as a board member for AVM is not easy since we are a very hands-on organization with our involvement in the community. However, Aaron’s passion and commitment help him continue the spirit of service to others in North Carolina.
As a veteran, Aaron’s time away from work always consists of building a brighter future for his family and community. The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to burden us all with barriers, but he and his family continue to break through them every chance they get. Before the pandemic, Aaron began to network with the Winston-Salem Chamber of Commerce and with a few local resource centers. Since then, he has moved his residence to Lexington, NC, and his networking has been more focused on individual business owners and leaders in his community.
Aaron meets with multiple local small business owners who are veterans and also those who support veterans. Aaron continues to build these relationships, and he plans to re-engage with community entities to establish a North Carolina AVM base. As a board member, Aaron is taking these steps slowly and carefully to ensure complete safety and so that we are confident in our investments.
Aaron’s wife, Rachel, also contributes to increasing our network and building community relationships. As a Military Science Instructor at Wake Forest University and Winston-Salem State University, Rachel has engaged with many military leaders, including General (Retired, U.S. Army) David Petraeus and Vice Admiral (Retired, U.S. Navy) Forrest Faison. Additionally, Rachel always carries the Presidential Proclamation from the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Acts of 2012 and 2017. It includes the proclamation paying tribute to our Vietnam veterans, a lapel pin, and a Vietnam veteran sticker. Aaron and Rachel have presented this to deserving Vietnam veterans whom they meet on any given day.
Thank you, Aaron and Rachel, for continuing your service with us at the American Veterans Mission. Together, everyone achieves more!
