#United States #Boston #Miles for Military #nonprofit organization #Senior Leadership

Miles for Military Expands Leadership Team with New Appointments

In a significant step forward, Miles for Military, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free flights home for junior enlisted active-duty service members, has announced two pivotal appointments. Brittany Reilly joins as the new Chief of Staff, while Kathleen O'Connor takes a seat on the Board of Directors. Both leaders bring invaluable experience and commitment to the mission of reconnecting military families.

Since its inception, Miles for Military has focused on assisting enlisted service members (E-1 through E-4) who have completed 25 hours of community volunteer service, recognizing their dedication both to their country and to civic engagement. This commitment is embodied in the organization's goal to provide 5,000 flights in 2026, following the successful milestone of delivering over 1,000 flights to date.

Leadership Expansion

The organization is entering a new phase of growth, underlined by the strategic appointments of Reilly and O’Connor. Windle Jarvis, the Executive Director, expressed his enthusiasm about the new additions: “We are thrilled to welcome two exceptional leaders to our team. Their skills will undoubtedly facilitate our expansion and enhance our capability to serve military families.”

Brittany Reilly, in her role as Chief of Staff, aims to bolster operations and further develop strategic initiatives. Reilly previously held the position of Chief Operating Officer at the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation. Her extensive background includes roles at the U.S. Department of State, where she oversaw several key initiatives, as well as experiences in the White House and Department of Labor. Reilly emphasized her excitement in joining an organization that makes a meaningful impact, stating, “Working alongside this dedicated team to expand our impact is incredibly inspiring.”

Meanwhile, Kathleen O’Connor’s election to the board marks another strategic move. Currently an Executive Director at AQR Capital Management, O’Connor has over 20 years of legal and public policy experience. She has previously worked with the Public Policy and Regulatory Affairs practice at Dentons and has played various roles in government positions advocating for civic and charitable engagement. O'Connor remarked, “I’m proud to join the Miles for Military Board of Directors and support an organization that is making such a meaningful difference for our nation's service members and their families.”

The Organization’s Mission

Founded by Maureen Byrne, a Massachusetts resident and mother of a Marine, Miles for Military arose from a real need. After learning about the struggles of junior enlisted service members who could not afford flights during holidays and important family gatherings, Byrne saw an opportunity to make a difference. Under her leadership, the organization has grown significantly since its launch in 2021, facilitating emotional reunions of service members with their families during critical life moments.

As Miles for Military continues to gain traction, the organization is excited to witness the positive influence of its enhanced leadership structure. Both Reilly and O'Connor embody the spirit of philanthropy and community engagement that the organization cherishes.

For more information about Miles for Military or to support its mission, visit www.milesformilitary.org. Every contribution helps to ensure that more military families can experience reunions that matter.