John Heintzelman, VAF Director
John is a retired Army Master Sargeant, with 22 years of service. He is a purple heart recipient as well as receiving the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (3rd OLC), Army Commendation Medal with “V” device, Army Commendation Medal (6th OLC), Army Achievement Medal (9th OLC), Army Good Conduct Medal (7th Award), National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), Kosovo Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Service Ribbon (Numeral 3), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Medal (Numeral 2), Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Superior Unit Award, Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Jumpmaster Badge, Pathfinder Badge, Drill Sergeant Badge, and the Expert Infantryman Badge. After retiring from active-duty MSG Heintzelman retired in Henderson, Nevada, where he works for the Air Force and has published Books, newsletters, articles, and podcasts to help Veterans in their transition, guide them to alternative therapies, and improve veteran mental health.
Justin Chavez, VAF Director
Justin Chavez, a veteran who previously served with the U.S. Marine Corp, currently works as the State and Community Engagement Manager, as well as the Veteran Program Manager for AARP Nevada. A proud veteran supporter, Justin has both his Bachelor and Master’s degree from Arizona State University and has over 13 years’ experience working in the veteran nonprofit sector. Justin also volunteers part time as a coach for Special Olympics and is a proud father, son, and husband, as well as a proud local Nevadan.
Becky (Chao) Wu, Treasurer
Veteran advocate/supporter, community leader, and Real Estate professional.
Maria Camposano, Secretary
Is an active Military Order of the Purple Heart and a senior manager with Humana Health Plans
Ralph McNamara
Retired Army Warrant Officer.
Purple Heart Recipient
Judy Tu
Media reporter, editor, and real estate investor.
Active veteran supporter
Su Phelps
Owner of Veterans News Reporter newspaper.
President, Society Military Widows Chapter 34.
Strong veteran advocate/supporter
Jim Martin
Loyal supporter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 730.
Active veteran supporter
Jennifer Belza-Vinuya
Former U.S. Army National Guard solider, community leader, and veteran supporter
