Supporting Veterans. Strengthening Communities.

I’m Emily Rieger, and I spend my days helping healthcare run a little smoother and my free time helping our community say thank you to its veterans. I am Co-President of Operation Hometown Heroes, and I am also a wife and a mom to two amazing daughters, Ophelia (4) and Autumn (1).

My husband, David, is a Veteran Service Officer with the county, and hearing his stories from work showed me how many people just need someone to show up for them. I wanted to be part of building something that does exactly that.

Professionally, I am an Operations Manager at Springfield Clinic, and I started my career as a bedside nurse. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing and an MBA in Healthcare Administration. Leading teams and solving problems for the people who depend on us is what I love to do, and I bring that same heart to this mission.

I believe the men and women who have served, and the families who stand behind them, deserve to know their community is standing with them.

Hi, everyone! My name is Connor Prior. I’m a husband of 14 years, a proud father of three amazing kids, and a correctional officer with the Illinois Department of Corrections. I’m also Co-President of Operation Hometown Heroes.

Family, community, and helping others have always been important to me. With friends and family who have served our country, supporting veterans is something that comes from the heart.

I believe the people who have sacrificed so much for our freedom deserve to know their communities haven’t forgotten them. That’s why I do what I do. If I can make even a small difference in the life of a veteran or their family, it’s all worth it.

I’m proud to be part of this mission, and I’m excited to see everyone at Vetstock 2026.

Hi! My name is Sara Prior, treasurer of Operation Hometown Heroes. First and foremost, I’m a wife and mom to three amazing kids who definitely keep me busy and on my toes. Most of my days are spent going from one activity to the next, cheering from the sidelines, and making memories with my family.

As the granddaughter, daughter, and sister of veterans, I have seen how military service affects not only those who serve, but also their families and communities. Their example taught me the importance of gratitude, compassion, and being there for others, which is why Operation Hometown Heroes means so much to me.

While I haven’t served myself, I am honored to support those who have and to help veterans and military families feel appreciated, supported, and connected. Through OHH, I hope to turn my family’s appreciation into action and carry on the legacy of service that has always been part of our family.

My name is Calvin Brewer, and I come from a proud military family. I have dedicated nearly seven years to serving in the U.S. Army, and I now serve as a Sergeant and Transportation Management Coordinator, guided by commitment, leadership, discipline, and resilience.

For me, service goes beyond the uniform. It means making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. During my mobilization to Texas in support of COVID-19 response efforts, I volunteered at homeless shelters, animal shelters, and community beautification projects. Those experiences allowed me to support people in need while strengthening relationships between service members and the border communities we served, building trust, understanding, and a shared sense of purpose.

I am passionate about helping fellow service members transition to civilian life, with a focus on mental wellness and access to essential resources. Every person who has served, along with their families, deserves unwavering support, meaningful opportunities, and the respect they have earned.

As secretary of Operation Hometown Heroes, I am continuing that mission beyond the military, working to ensure that no service member, veteran, or military family has to face life’s challenges alone.