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Recognizing Veteran Excellence: The 2026 Honorees

In an inspiring announcement, Military Friendly® has revealed the 2026 Veteran of the Year and Vetrepreneur® of the Year honorees, celebrating the outstanding contributions of veterans in various fields. This prestigious recognition aims to highlight the remarkable achievements and impactful leadership that veterans exhibit post-service.

Each year, Military Friendly gathers nominations from across the country to find veterans whose endeavors truly stand out. The 2026 honorees come from a diverse array of industries and backgrounds, demonstrating how veterans continue to lead and inspire their communities after their military service.

Understanding the Significance

Kayla Lopez, the Vice President of Memberships at Military Friendly®, emphasizes the program's significance, stating, "The achievements recognized through these awards differ from one honoree to the next, which is what makes this initiative so meaningful." This statement underscores the unique paths veterans take, illustrating that there is no single mold for veteran leadership.

The honorees reflect a rich mix of experiences—from building businesses and leading organizations to advocating for fellow veterans and enhancing community well-being. Their diverse contributions enhance the fabric of society, proving that the skills and values learned in the military can translate into meaningful impact in civilian life.

The 2026 Veterans of the Year

This year, the 2026 Veteran of the Year recipients include:

• - Ryan Groves, MS, honored as the National Military Friendly® Veteran of the Year.
• - Joshua Copeland from Louisiana, recognized for his exemplary leadership in Corporate America.
• - Dave Underwood from Illinois, awarded for his Community Impact.
• - Bryan Bills from Ohio, honored within Higher Education.
• - Valerie Sudduth from Florida, acknowledged for her advocacy work.

Each of these individuals has demonstrated outstanding qualities and achievements in their fields, carving out paths that not only benefit themselves but also inspire others in the veteran community.

The 2026 Vetrepreneurs of the Year

In addition to the Veterans of the Year, the following individuals have been named the 2026 Vetrepreneurs of the Year:

• - Gary Travis from California as the Emerging Vetrepreneur.
• - Dial Burum from Virginia recognized for his Lifestyle Business.
• - Anthony Suppa from New York, who made strides in the restaurant industry.
• - Robert Kolley from Nebraska, honored for his advocacy as a Vetrepreneur.

These Vetrepreneurs exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit that is commonly found within the veteran community. Their dedication to establishing successful businesses reflects not only their resilience but also their commitment to uplifting those around them.

Honoring the Achievements

The annual awards ceremony culminates in a celebration that recognizes both state and national honorees across various categories such as advocacy, professional leadership, and community impact. The selection process was rigorous, involving peer nominations, public voting, and assessments by a peer council, ensuring that the honorees truly represent the best of the veteran community.

Together, these honorees showcase the wide-ranging contributions of veterans nationwide, reinforcing the idea that their journey does not end with military service. Instead, it evolves—shaping their communities and industries in profound ways.

For further details about the 2026 state winners and to learn more about Military Friendly and its initiatives, you can visit Military Friendly's website.

In closing, the stories of these remarkable veterans remind us of the importance of supporting our veterans as they transition to civilian life, recognizing their potential to enact change, lead, and inspire others. Their achievements are a testament to the enduring spirit of those who have served, proving time and again that their contributions have the power to shape a better world.