About Us | Operation Lifeline

From Our Founder...

I began Operation Lifeline Inc. in 2022, not long after I retired from the Air Force. Following a career of military service, I offered my time and experience to Saint Johns County and was appointed to the Housing Finance Authority. In this position, I was shocked to learn about the challenges our lower-income families (including many veterans) were experiencing due to the soaring housing market. I was particularly disappointed to hear the indifference expressed by many in the local communities and those in positions to help.

During my 26+ years of Air Force service, I travelled to countless countries and communities to help those in need. It was always the mission I enjoyed most, and I came to the realization that my service and mission could continue here at home. Upon founding the organization, I was floored by the immediate support Operation Lifeline received from the local governments, and I quickly began finding wonderful individuals who were eager to invest their time to help veterans.

If you are like-minded, we would love your support. If you are a struggling veteran, know that you are not alone. We would love to make your home safer improving quality of life for you and yours.

Sincerely,

Erick L. Saks, Lt Col, USAF (Ret)
Executive Director, Operation Lifeline Inc.

Our Team

Board Chairman

Justin Herman

Former Capt, USAF

justin@oplifeline.org

Justin Herman serves as Chairman of the Operation Lifeline Inc. Board of Directors and brings extensive experience in public service, technology, and organizational leadership. After separating from the U.S. Air Force as a Public Affairs Officer at the rank of Captain, he continued his public service career in senior federal roles, including Head of Emerging Technologies for Citizen Services at the U.S. General Services Administration and advisor to the White House National Science and Technology Council under two U.S. Presidents. Based in Washington, D.C., Justin works in senior leadership roles supporting public sector initiatives and serves as an expert advisor to the World Economic Forum, with a focus on innovation and policy.

Dave Russell Photo_Full Size_edited_edit

Board Secretary

David Russell

Capt, USAFR

captrussell@oplifeline.org

David Russell serves as Secretary of the Operation Lifeline Inc. Board of Directors and brings a strong record of leadership, operational expertise, and service. A former U.S. Air Force Logistics Readiness Officer, David played a key role in establishing the International Donor Coordination Centre in Europe, supporting coordinated efforts among the United States and allied partners. David earned his MBA from Columbia Business School, reflecting his commitment to professional development, strategic thinking, and ethical leadership. His combined military and business experience provides valuable perspective to the Board, particularly in organizational governance and logistics, and strengthens Operation Lifeline Inc.’s ability to deliver, mission-driven housing programs.

Board Treasurer

Richard Walberg

Col (Ret), USAF

richard@oplifeline.org

Rich Walberg serves as Treasurer of the Operation Lifeline Inc. Board of Directors and brings more than 27 years of distinguished military service to the organization. During his career in the U.S. Air Force, Rich commanded at the Wing, Group, and Squadron levels and held senior staff positions with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Air Mobility Command at the Pentagon. Since transitioning to the private sector, Rich has continued to lead in complex and innovative environments as the founder of Tacticum LLC, a consulting firm specializing in aviation, defense, and logistics. His leadership experience, operational discipline, and strategic perspective provide valuable financial and governance oversight to Operation Lifeline Inc.

Board Member

Eries Mentzer

Col (Ret), USAF

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Eries Mentzer brings over 25 years of distinguished service to her role as a board member for Operation Lifeline Inc. During her military career, she served as Commander of the 42nd Air Base Wing at Maxwell Air Force Base, where she oversaw operations supporting more than 42,000 personnel and their families. A trailblazer in her field, Eries has been a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion, fostering community partnerships and empowering underserved populations. Her passion for service aligns closely with Operation Lifeline Inc.’s mission to provide safe and accessible housing for veterans and low-income families.

Since retiring, Eries continues to champion impactful initiatives that strengthen communities and improve lives.

Founder/Executive Director

Erick Saks

Lt Col (Ret), USAF

erick@oplifeline.org

Erick Saks serves as Founder and Executive Director of Operation Lifeline Inc. A retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, Erick served 26 years supporting humanitarian and infrastructure missions across Africa, the Middle East, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Following his military service, he founded Operation Lifeline Inc. to address housing barriers facing veterans and underserved populations through affordable housing development, home rehabilitation, accessibility modifications, and permanent supportive housing. Erick serves on multiple Continuums of Care and on the board of NEFBA Builders Care, supporting regional homelessness strategies and critical home repairs. A Florida Certified General Contractor and NCCER Instructor, he brings a practical, workforce-informed approach to housing delivery.

Chief Operating Officer

Marshall Buford

MSgt (Ret), USAF

marshall@oplifeline.org

Marshall Buford serves as Chief Operating Officer of Operation Lifeline Inc., bringing more than 24 years of active-duty service in the U.S. Air Force and extensive leadership experience to the organization. In 2026, Marshall transitioned from Operation Lifeline’s Board of Directors to the staff, leaving his role with Air Force Officer Training School to focus full time on advancing the organization’s mission. His background includes more than a decade of officer recruiting and leadership development, mentoring future officers and supporting organizational growth. As COO, Marshall oversees day-to-day operations, helping ensure the organization is positioned for sustainable growth and effective service delivery. His leadership and people-focused approach help position Operation Lifeline Inc. to scale while delivering safe, accessible housing solutions.

Project Manager

David Black

david@oplifeline.org

David Black is the Project Manager for Operation Lifeline Inc., bringing a wealth of expertise and passion to the organization. As a master carpenter, his work can be seen in some of the most distinctive homes in the southern region, where his artistry and attention to detail have earned him widespread acclaim. With a career spanning decades, he has solidified his reputation as a true expert in his field. Through his career, David has made significant contributions to the construction industry, consistently delivering high-quality results. David's commitment to excellence and compassionate approach ensure that Operation Lifeline Inc. exceeds its goals, driving the organization's success and making a lasting impact on the community it serves.

Volunteer Coordinator

Aileen Buford

Military Spouse & Parent

aileen@oplifeline.org

Aileen Buford serves as the Volunteer Coordinator for Operation Lifeline Inc., bringing a lifetime of service-oriented leadership to the organization. A licensed psychotherapist and longtime military spouse, Aileen offers deep insight into the unique challenges faced by service members, veterans, and their families. Her professional background includes work in hospitals and nursing homes, service within local government, and experience as an educator. Aileen is committed to connecting individuals and families to the resources and support systems they need, with a focus on those impacted by military service. She is widely recognized for her ability to navigate complex systems, advocate effectively for others, and support individuals through both crisis and recovery.

Co-Founder

Vanessa Saks

Lt Col (Ret), USAF

vanessa@oplifeline.org

Vanessa Saks, co-founder of Operation Lifeline Inc., brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the organization. Her retirement from the U.S. Air Force in 2020 as a lieutenant colonel after 22 years of service is a testament to her dedication and leadership. Throughout her military career, Vanessa established herself as an extraordinary individual with a diverse skill set. She began her journey by leading the personnel section for the renowned "Triple Nickle" fighter squadron in northern Italy, showcasing her ability to manage and coordinate essential functions within a high-performing unit. Much of her career was spent as a communication strategist, providing counsel to numerous high-visibility government officials and using her expertise to shape effective messaging.

Co-Founder

Patricia Codere

Military Parent

patricia@oplifeline.org

Patricia Codere serves on the Board of Directors and as the Volunteer Coordinator for Operation Lifeline Inc., bringing over 20 years of management experience in the international maritime industry. As the former Director of Charter Management for a renowned yachting company, she oversaw operations for multimillion-dollar yachts and coordinated with 19 offices across 14 countries, managing relationships with clients from 40 different nationalities. Her extensive expertise provides a unique perspective that enhances Operation Lifeline Inc.'s strategies and decision-making processes. In her role as Volunteer Coordinator, Patricia mobilizes and manages volunteers, fostering a collaborative environment to ensure the success of the organization’s initiatives.