Supporting Veterans: Who We Are at Operation Hometown Heroes

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My name is Emily Rieger, and I am a proud wife and mother of a three-year-old daughter with another little girl on the way. Supporting veterans is not just a cause for me; it is deeply woven into my life. My husband and multiple family members have served our country, and I have seen firsthand the sacrifices they and their loved ones make in service to our nation. I know how crucial it is to have the right resources, a strong community, and a renewed sense of purpose beyond service. That’s why we founded Operation Hometown Heroes, dedicated to honoring and empowering veterans through mental wellness for veterans, creating pathways for career transitions, and fostering community reintegration. My goal is to ensure that every veteran and their family, regardless of era, branch, or background, receives the respect, resources, and veteran support services they deserve to thrive.

My name is Connor Prior Sr., and I am a proud husband and father. My mission is to stand beside our nation’s veterans and their families as they navigate the challenges of community reintegration after service by offering mental wellness for veterans through resources, financial assistance, and a listening ear when it’s needed most. Too many veterans return home feeling forgotten despite their sacrifices, and I want them to know they are remembered, respected, and appreciated. Through compassion, connection, and dedicated outreach, I strive to ensure no veteran or their family faces life’s hardships alone, and that they have access to essential veteran support services.

My name is Sara Prior, and I am a proud wife and mother of three, as well as a daughter, sister, and granddaughter of veterans. Growing up in a military family, I witnessed firsthand both the pride and the challenges that come with serving our country. I understand the sacrifices made, not only by those in uniform but also by their families during and after military service. My mission is to honor those sacrifices by helping veterans and their loved ones navigate the often difficult transition to civilian life through robust veteran support services. By focusing on community reintegration, I aim to provide essential support, resources, and a strong sense of community, ensuring that every veteran and their family feels valued, understood, and equipped to thrive beyond their service. Service to our country does not end when the uniform comes off, and neither should our support for mental wellness for veterans. This work is my way of giving back to those who have given so much for our freedom.

My name is Calvin Dean Brewer, and coming from a proud military family, I have dedicated over five years to serving in the U.S. military as a truck driver, upholding a legacy of commitment, discipline, and resilience. For me, service extends beyond wearing the uniform; it signifies making a meaningful difference wherever possible. During my mobilization to Texas in support of COVID-19 response efforts, I went beyond the call of duty by volunteering at homeless shelters, animal shelters, and participating in community beautification projects. These experiences not only allowed me to serve those in need but also played a crucial role in community reintegration, strengthening relationships between the military and the border communities we supported, fostering trust, understanding, and a shared purpose. I am passionate about providing veteran support services and helping fellow service members and veterans successfully transition into civilian life, with a strong focus on mental wellness for veterans. I believe every individual who has served, along with their families, deserves unwavering support, access to vital resources, and the respect they have earned through their sacrifice.