OPERATION LIFELINE INC.

Erick Saks, Founder of Operation Lifeline Inc., retired from the U.S. Air Force in 2020 after over 26 years of dedicated service. His military career took him around the world, focusing on supporting humanitarian operations, including building schools, medical facilities, and essential infrastructure in regions facing poverty and conflict. After retiring, Erick  relocated to Saint Johns County, Florida, where he became actively involved in local government. He was elected as a Supervisor for the Rivers Edge Community Development District and was appointed to the Housing Finance Authority. The experience ignited his passion for direct veteran support, leading to Operation Lifeline Inc. He also serves on the Continuum of Care board and actively participates in various veteran councils, strengthening his commitment to supporting fellow veterans.

Marshall Buford, the Board Chairman for Operation Lifeline Inc., brings 24 years of active-duty service in the U.S. Air Force to his role, continuing his work with the Air Force at Officer Training School. With a decade of officer recruiting experience, he mentors aspiring officers, helping them develop leadership skills and clear visions for their futures. Additionally, Marshall serves as an adjunct professor of English at Auburn University's Montgomery campus. His extensive travel, having visited all 50 states, 42 countries, and all seven continents, provides him with unique insights and perspectives. Marshall's commitment to leadership, education, and community service makes him an invaluable asset to Operation Lifeline Inc., where he guides the organization in its mission to support safe and accessible housing.

Justin Herman is Vice Chairman of Operation Lifeline's Board of Directors. After separating from the U.S. Air Force as a Public Affairs Officer at the rank of Captain, Justin went on to serve again in diverse public service roles including head of Emerging Technologies for Citizen Services for the U.S. General Services Administration and advisor for the White House National Science and Technology Council for two U.S. Presidents. Today, Justin lives in Washington, D.C., where he  works as the GM and AVP of Global Public Sector Industry for ServiceNow, a Fortune 500 software platform company, and serves as an expert advisor for the World Economic Forum. He also helps guide emerging organizations on understanding and navigating public programs and opportunities.

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Aileen Buford is the Secretary/Treasurer of Operation Lifeline Inc. Aileen has dedicated her entire life to serving her country, her family, and humanity. As a licensed psychotherapist and a military spouse for decades, she is now talking to her Staff Sergeant son about grandchildren. Aileen is a mother of three boys and one beloved daughter, and she has experienced all the ups and downs that military life entails. She has worked in hospitals and nursing homes, served on local governments in Massachusetts, and taught middle school students in Alabama. Aileen has connected countless individuals to the services they need, grieving every loss and championing every win. She faces each day with determination, tackling every obstacle and overcoming every barrier that Airmen encounter.

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.

David Russell, a member of the Operation Lifeline Inc. Board of Directors, brings an impressive background and steadfast commitment to service. As a former Air Force Logistics Readiness Officer, he was instrumental in establishing the International Donor Coordination Centre in Europe, aiding the United States and its allies. In 2024, David earned his MBA from Columbia Business School, showcasing his dedication to personal growth and ethical leadership. His academic achievements, coupled with his military experience, provide a unique perspective and valuable insights that significantly enhance Operation Lifeline Inc.'s mission. David's diverse experience and unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and providing safe and accessible housing make him an invaluable asset

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.

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Rich Walberg brings over 27 years of distinguished military service to his role as a board member for Operation Lifeline Inc. During his career in the U.S. Air Force, Rich commanded at multiple levels, including Wing, Group, and Squadron, and held senior staff positions with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Air Mobility Command at the Pentagon. A decorated pilot with over 5,000 flight hours. Since transitioning to the private sector, Rich has continued to lead in innovative fields as the founder of Tacticum LLC, a consulting firm specializing in aviation, defense, and logistics. Rich’s dedication to empowering communities and fostering impactful initiatives aligns seamlessly with our mission to provide safe and accessible housing for veterans and low-income families.

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.

Ginny Campbell, the Program Director of Operation Lifeline Inc., brings extensive experience and expertise to the organization. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from Flagler College, she is a HUD Certified Housing Counselor with multiple certifications. Most recently, she served as a Housing Counselor for St. Johns County, successfully assisting over 125 families in becoming homeowners and managing a caseload of 100-225 families. Ginny also has over a decade of experience as a real estate agent and property manager. Her commitment to empowering others and her collaborative approach make her an invaluable asset to Operation Lifeline Inc. Having lived in St. Johns and Flagler Counties since 1984, Ginny is deeply invested in her community.

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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.

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