ZACHARIAH Fike
Favorite Part of Job: We have an opportunity to bring Gold Star families together for the first time in some cases and often bring closure to their lives in regards to the loved one they lost. Meeting them and hearing of their gratitude brings closure to the Foundation as well. We also get to re-honor a Veteran who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that his memory will last forever.
Most Inspiring Mentor: My most inspiring mentor is my mother. She is responsible for starting my journey, both in life and my foundation. She is my biggest fan and her support and guidance keeps me grounded. She is the strongest woman I have ever met.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: Other than collecting military memorabilia, I enjoy antique Phonographs and Victrola music players.
Favorite Vermont Escape: Any Vermont Antique Store and of course 14th Star Brewing Company in St. Albans, VT.
Favorite downtime activity: I don't get a lot of downtime with my Foundation so I try to spend all of my free time with my family.
Favorite Social Media: Social Media is very important with any Business or Foundation. We have the best fans on Facebook and Twitter.
Person you would like to share a Vermont beverage with: I would like to share a 14th Star Brewing Company Valor Ale with Clint Eastwood.
What is the best career advice you have received? Treat your Soldiers as your family, both with honor and respect, and they will follow you into the gates of hell.
Where do you see yourself professionally in ten years? The Foundation is self sufficient allowing me to expand my efforts on other Veteran issues or concerns and possibly running for a local government office.
Community Involvement:
The mission is to locate lost or stolen military medals of valor and return them to veterans or their families in order to honor their sacrifice to the nation. Purple Hearts Reunited is a national organization, returning medals and attending events across the country, and has returned medals to well over 150 military families to date. The organization’s board and staff is made up of active-duty officers, veterans, and family members of veterans.
Awards/Recognition: Military Order of the Purple Heart Distinguished Service Award, American Red Cross Military Hero Award, Daughters of the American Revolution Medal of Honor, Historic Preservation Medal, and Exceptional Patriotism & Dedication Award, Vermont Wounded Warriors Distinguished Service Award, and the Key to Shelby County, TN.
United States Army Operations Officer, Rank: Captain, Branch: Infantry. Current Status: 17 honorable years, still serving on Active Duty (VTARNG).
AFFILIATIONS INCLUDE: VT State Commander, MOPH Medal Recovery Program, National Society, Sons of the American Revolution: Vermont Society State President General Society War of 1812: Vermont Society State President, Wounded Warriors Project
