Lynelle Chauncey Zelnar, Executive Director Lynelle stepped up to the plate to spearhead this needed outreach in October 2003. Her efforts began with the gathering of a few boxes of items consisting of Gatorade, snacks, magazines, hygiene products, etc. along with a few letters to send to the initial three soldiers whose names she obtained from a local family.
Lynelle then contacted the owners of The Oasis Coffee House to try to gather more supplies and letters of encouragement for the three soldiers. Her commitment prompted a few local teachers to start a letter writing campaign. It also brought in additional items to package and ship than she initially expected.
Through the years, it’s amazing to see how Lynelle’s ambition to help encourage soldiers has turned into such a flourishing and nationally known organization with businesses, corporations, religious groups, schools (from daycares to colleges), and individuals from all over the United States contributing to this mission.
The response from our troops is why we do what we do!
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Bob Nichols, National Chairman of the Board Bob had a television career which spanned 33 years in Palm Beach County, Florida. Bob’s career included working at WPTV and WPEC, both as a weatherman and a news anchor. He is also a licensed professional auctioneer, commercial talent, and nationally recognized motivational speaker.
Jay Cashmere, Vice-Chairman of the Board Jay is a news anchor and reporter for WPTV News Channel 5 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Jay also has a long list of award-winning stories to his credit.
Jay is a dedicated journalist, who is also committed to his station’s longtime reputation as a community-minded station. As the Vice Chair of Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, Inc., Jay continues his outstanding community service work. He was one of the first reporters in Florida to bring the work of FSO to the attention of South Florida television viewers.
Christine Annelies Mouring, Secretary Christine is an attorney at law practicing in Palm Beach County, Florida. Christine is actively involved with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and also serves on several other Boards.
Art Snow, Director Art has been married to his wife, Marianne, for 29 years and they have two sons. Their son, Nicholas, received his Masters’ Degree in Economics from San Jose State and is continuing his education in a PhD program. Their son, Andrew, is a Sergeant in the United States Army and stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. Andrew is a veteran of two tours in Iraq and was an Infantry Soldier as well as a Bradley Commander in Iraq.
As the Director of the Tennis Program at The Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida, Art has raised thousands and thousands of dollars for FSO through annual golf & tennis tournaments. Marianne is active in helping our local National Guard Unit Family Readiness Program based in Hollywood, Florida. At their 2007 holiday dinner dance, Marianne was presented with a plaque for her service.
Both Art and Marianne have been extremely involved and committed volunteers with FSO since 2004.
Donald K. Lanman, Director Don has a professional background which includes executive level management positions in marketing, management, communications, operations and community service. Don has held senior management positions in marketing with leading firms which include American Express, Bank One and First State Bank of the Florida Keys. Don is a graduate of the University of Nevada with a BA in Journalism as well as a post-graduate MBA from St. Mary’s College in California.
Don is a Veteran, previously serving as a Commissioned Officer in the United States Army. His many civic, community and philanthropic contributions include: Board of Directors, Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, Inc., Palm Beach County Film & Television Commission and the Hospice/Visiting Nurses Association.
Don says, “As a United States Army Veteran, I understand how important it is to receive word from home. To feel appreciated and loved. To know that our country, but more importantly, our family, friends and neighbors, have not forgotten us. This experience is why I choose to help remember our service members with that human touch that says, we appreciate and value your services, keep the faith…”
Elizabeth Varian, Director/Webmaster Elizabeth specializes in Intranet/Internet consulting which includes, but is not limited to, site design and development along with Internet marketing. Elizabeth is quite familiar and effective in putting strategies to use on the Internet that enhance real world marketing efforts and strategies.
Elizabeth says, “This outreach captured my heart from the beginning. Being a military brat myself of two Vietnam Vets, I love that our soldiers are not forgotten or pushed to the backburner because of political differences like those of past conflicts.”
Chuck Debevec, Director Chuck served in the United States Marine Corps for 9 years and is married to his wife, Marie. Chuck and Marie are parents to 5 children. Chuck has been involved with FSO for about 3 years, not knowing that his son would be one of the recipients of FSO’s “We Care” packages while in Iraq. Chuck said, “I really got involved when I was announcing at a race track during a fundraiser and found out that Lynelle knew my son who was still in Iraq.”
Joe Hansen, Director
FSO TEAM and OPERATIONAL SUPPORT:
Jeanelle Knecht, Asstistant to Executive Director/Team Member Jeanelle is an Air Force mom to son, Staff Sargent, Michael Marez. Jeanelle became involved with FSO in 2007 by signing up as a volunteer. As a mother of a serviceman, she knows how hard it is to send a package.
Jeanelle is originally from Southern California. Her goal is to always strive to make sure everyone is taken care of. She says, “FSO is an organization that has allowed me to become someone special and stand out in the crowd as an Air Force Mom. I appreciate that greatly. I love what I do.”
Jeanelle’s primary assignment is to assist Executive Director Lynelle, in ALL aspects of the organization; including, but not limited to, managing the National Operation Center and overseeing the services that FSO provides to the public. Her most important duty is overseeing FSO’s mission of sending “We Care” packages to our United States Military personnel serving overseas.
Jeanelle goes on to say, “I always wanted to make sure that my son had everything he needs while he was deployed fighting for our freedom. With FSO, I know that we can make a difference to support our troops as they put their lives on the line to make a difference for us here at home. By volunteering, I feel this is my way to tell our troops, ‘THANK YOU for what you do, day in and day out.’”
Sue Beard, Former Treasurer, Palm Beach County Manager and current Finance Manager/CFO/Team Member Sue has a vast knowledge of the financial picture for non-profit businesses, as well as for-profit businesses. Sue monitors the expenses incurred and acts as a liaison with the Corporate Accountant, the donors, as well as the Government, which has strict guidelines for 501C Organizations such as FSO.
Sue also spends many hours volunteering for the different events.
Michael Coleman, Speakers Guild. Michael is retired from the Air Force and served in the Vietnam Conflict. Michael has been involved with FSO since 2004, serving in many capacities, including, but not limited to, Volunteer Manager and Assistant to the Palm Beach County Manager and National Headquarters Administrator.
Michael is also a member of the Disabled Veterans Association (DVA) and served during Vietnam and the Cold War eras. His son is in the US Air Force and is a member of the Alaskan Air Reserve with more than 14 years of service. Michael also serves on the FSO Speaking Guild.
Michael says, “I started out with FSO because I had a vehicle big enough to help take the “We Care” packages to the Post Office. By doing that, I saw a need for me to do something to give back to my country. I saw a need to give something to a family that is much bigger than my own. That family is all of the men and women who are serving in all of the branches of the military. By taking on the ideas of this organization, and taking it to the point of a passion with me, as well as the fact that I have this personal part, which is my son who has been sent in harms way on several occasions, makes this organization very close to my heart.”
John Oldham, Community Relations/Team Member John has served 12 years with the Florida Army National Guard. John was introduced to FSO through another non-profit Veterans group.
John has been volunteering since September 2007. As Public Relations Manager, he is responsible for promoting FSO via public speaking at different clubs, schools and organizations, as well as soliciting for such to hold events and fundraisers. His primary goal is to bring exposure and raise funds for FSO. However, John’s other interests include traveling and watching sports.
Helen Saucier, Packing Events Manager/Former Warehouse Manager/Team Member One day, Helen wanted to send a package to a soldier in Iraq or Afghanistan. She found a site on the internet, prepared a package and went to the Boynton Beach Post Office to mail it. The clerk who waited on her told her about FSO and she attended an “inventory” event. Her brother and husband were stationed in Vietnam and she remembered sending them packages 30 years ago and how much it meant to them.
Helen is a Controller for a country club and goes to the FSO warehouse just about every night, counting and sorting donations and organizing the items. It never ceases to amaze her at the generosity of strangers and how people from all over the country send donations. Letters of encouragement are also written and received from individuals as well as churches, schools and other organizations to enclose in the packages.
Helen says, “Mail call is an exciting time for the soldiers and many do not have family who can afford to send them anything. Our “We Care” packages and letters assure them that they are “Not Forgotten.” I’m honored to be a part of this organization.”
Barbara and Kevin O’Connor,Warehouse Co-Managers/Team Members
Kevin & Barbara are the proud parents to Cassandra!! They became involved after seeing it on the news about 4 years ago. They wanted to continue to teach Cassie to help others and this great organization welcomed ALL of them with open arms!!
Al Flores, Soldiers’ Data Coordinator Al is the proud father of United States Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer, Sean Flores. Born and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, and a graduate of Forest High School. Sean is currently overseas on his third tour.
Al says, “I feel privileged to be a part of FSO supporting our courageous troops fighting abroad for our great nation.”
M. Ellen Kuzniewski, Team Member/Social Network Updater/Volunteer Office Assistant, joined FSO in May 2009. She came to the National Headquarters with the sole purpose of donating and obtained a tank top, bumper sticker and window decal for herself and a friend. She is personal friends with Jeanelle and after meeting Jeanelle’s son, who happened to be there at the time, and seeing the warehouse and entire set up, she became overwhelmed and cried her eyes out. While in Jeanelle’s arms, she repeatedly said, “Oh my God! I can’t believe this. Since I can’t work (due to major back surgery in November, 2010), I want to help. What can I do? I’ll come in on my good days.” From that day forward, Ellen comes to the office a couple days a week and updates the in-house calendar with upcoming events and posts them on both the Facebook Fan Page as well as the Facebook Group Page. She creates flyers when needed and volunteers at packing events as well as outside events when she is able to. She also assists Jeanelle whenever necessary.
Ellen’s father served in both the Marines and then the Army. He served in WWII, the Korean War and the Viet Nam War. Her nephew was in the Marines and is currently serving in the Army. Her niece’s husband is currently serving in the Air Force.
On a trip back “home” to New Jersey, Ellen went to both the Fort Dix and McGuire bases and delivered FSO flyers and cards at the Visitor’s Stations. She also delivered stacks at the surrounding hotels, restaurants, etc. She is proud to spread the word of FSO wherever she can.
Ellen goes on to say, “I am so proud to be a part of such an awesome organization such as FSO. To be a part of their ‘mission’ is the best experience anyone can have as an American. God Bless our troops and God Bless the USA.”
Jennifer Conger, PSA Administrator Jennifer began volunteering with FSO while on leave from her full-time job as a police officer. Her husband currently serves in the United States Coast Guard as a reservist with the Deployable Operations Group. Members of his unit, TACLET South, are deployed worldwide on an average of 200 days per year. Jennifer’s oldest son’s godfather is an Officer in the United States Army and has served three tours in Iraq/Afganistan.
Jennifer says, “I wish I had discovered FSO while my good friend was still overseas. Every time he returned home he would exhibit extreme gratitude for the letters I sent, and they were just letters. To think of the joy I could have given him with a “We Care” package made me want to do my part and make sure no service man or woman feels alone while they are away from home and fighting for my freedom.”
Mary Liguori, Administrative Support to John Oldham/ Team Member
Thomas M. Whelan, FSO Emcee Tom joined FSO in June 2009. He has a 2-year college degree from Florida Community College of Jacksonville. Tom is a Veteran and brings his gratitude and experience with him to the organization. He served 6 years in the United States Marine Corps, and was honorably discharged. During his service, he was in Desert Shield/Storm, Somalia and numerous other locations in the world.
Tom says, “I love the Marine Corps with all my heart and miss it everyday. Some of the best friends I ever made are Marines. I received many medals and commendations for my service. They include combat action, navy achievement, and navy commendation medals. My father also served this country in the United States Navy, during The Vietnam War and was a decorated service member, with 2 bronze stars.
I got involved because I was touched in my heart by what FSO does and how they support the soldiers by giving them everyday items from home that are missed and greatly appreciated by many. During my time in Desert Storm, there was no organization like this that existed and when I found them, it blew my mind. I wanted to do my part as a veteran to help the service members to the best of my ability and let them know, I appreciate all they do for us.”
Bill Arcuri, Veterans Affairs Liaison/Team Member Bill became involved with FSO in the fall of 2006 when he responded to an event by WIRK supporting FSO. Having served two tours in Vietnam and being a combat veteran and former POW he understands the sacrifices made by the men and women serving this great country. The vast majority of Vietnam Veterans never received a “welcome home” or received a “thank you” for their service when they returned home. Bill believes that with the work being done by FSO, we will ensure the current Veterans are supported while deployed and recognized for their service when they are back home.
Karla Smiley, Broward County Manager/Team Member Karla joined FSO because she felt it is a wonderful organization. Karla says, “This is not about the ‘what’, it is about taking care of the TROOPS and making sure they are not forgotten, as Broward County Manager, I want to make sure they get monthly care packages and know that they are HEROES and we love them.”
Kim Gill, Broward Public Relations/Team Member
Tara Laxer, Public Relations/Team Member Tara is an honorary board member of FSO and started with the organization in 2005. Her dedication to the troops came from her hands-on work with those who served in WWII, Vietenam and Korea to her own friends who have served in Iraq and Afganistan. As the former chief of staff to a local State Senator, Tara has worked on policy regarding PTSD and she continues to do so working with a variety of non-profit organizations in the area. She believes our veterans are the greatest natural resource our country has both past and present and they all should be treated as such. FSO reminds the troops when they are serving overseas, when they return or when they are being deployed they have a extended family they can count on.
Janelle Gonsalves, Team Member Janelle became involved with FSO to remember friends and family lost and to honor those still serving. She has been a member since 2008 and loves to help send off a little piece of home to men and women overseas. Her brother, Staff Sgt. Mark Gonsalves has been a recipient of many boxes and he has enjoyed sharing them with his fellow servicemen and women. Janelle has always been a proud supporter of the U.S. military and participating with FSO promotes her pride in America, in Our Country and in our Heroes.
Kathy Manoudakis, Team Member Kathy is originally from Cherry Hill, New Jersey and now resides in Boca Raton, Florida. Kathy is the Assistant to the Vice President of a Commercial Collections Company in Boca Raton. Her husband Terry is from Athens, Greece and has lived in the United States since 1970.
Kathy and Terry’s son, Nik, is a Private First Class in the United States Army. When enlisting in 2007, Nik went to BCT at Fort Jackson, South Carolina then to AIT at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, then to his duty station at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Nik was deployed to Tikrit, Iraq.
They have two dogs, Miracle a minature Poodle, and Roxy a Pit/Boxer mix. Roxy is Nik’s dog and they are loving her and taking care of her until he returns from the Army.
Kathy says she got involved in FSO because, “…discovered FSO while I was cruising the internet looking for items I could send to my son in Iraq. I thought it was strange they weren’t on Facebook and contemplated asking if I could make a page, so about a week later, I checked Facebook again and there it was! I immediately contacted Francine, not knowing she was in Georgia, then I invited all of my Facebook friends to join, which they did. I saw that there was an event close to where I live in Western Boca Raton. Francine told me who to look for at the event, and that was it, I was in — hook, line and sinker! I really wanted to be involved, not just for my son and a few of his friends that are in the military, but for all of them. I believe if everyone gave back a few hours a month to whatever is close to their heart, the world would be a much happier place.”
Rosemary A. Mouring, Memorial Day Event Organizer and co-chairperson Rosemary was raised in North Palm Beach, Florida and is married to Robert H. Mouring, III. Rosemary and Robert have 2 sons and 6 grandchildren.
Rosemary became interested in FSO while attending a Memorial Day service at Royal Palm Memorial Park in May of 2004. Partnered with FSO in 2005 to organize an Annual Memorial Day Service in Lantana, Florida at Palm Beach Memorial Park. Working with FSO gives her a chance to honor and give back to our Veterans and let them know we appreciate the sacrifice they make to keep us free.
Lisa Minns, Event Chair for Bru’s Room Annual Soldiers Festival Lisa became involved with FSO through her mother who worked at a Coldwell Banker office in West Boca and they had a silent auction to benefit FSO. She is friends with the manager of Bru’s Room and knew that Bru’s liked to do events for charity groups. Through her love for event planning, the 1st Annual SoldierFest was born. Lisa believed in what FSO was doing but had no money to give so her contribution became organizing fundraisers. Since the 1st Annual SoldierFest she has also organized several happy hour fundraisers at Village Tavern and Murphy’s Law HardRock.
Cassandra (Cassie) O’Connor, FSO Student Ambassador/Fundraiser Cassie is from Lake Worth, Florida.
Cassie started doing this about 4 years ago. She is FSO’s first student ambassador and is currently at Christa McAuliffe Middle School. Cassie has raised over $10,000 for FSO!! She does fundraising events all year round. Her other interests are Tae Kwon Do, Reading, Disney World, Webkinz, and HELPING OUR TROOPS by raising money for them!!
Lisa Pigliavento, Former Packing Event Co-Manager, Public Relations & Resident Poetic Encourager, volunteers at the packing and other FSO events. Lisa writes poems to encourage our soldiers as well as the other volunteers.
Lisa loves volunteering because the joy the soldiers get from receiving “We Care” packages gives her joy in return.
Jorge Suarez, Certified Public Accountant with the State of Florida Jorge currently works with Florida Crystals Corporation, as the Manager of Production Accounting. Jorge has been employed with Florida Crystals Corporation for more than 14 years.
Jorge graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Finance and also from Florida Atlantic University with a degree in Accounting.
Jorge says, “It is a privilege to be a part of a growing organization that is helping thousands and thousands of our United States servicemen and women serving overseas and their families.”
FLORIDA KEYS
Ron and Debbie Marron, Key Colony Beach, Florida Keys, Public Relations Volunteers Ron and Debbie are faithfully committed to volunteering for events throughout the Florida Keys.
HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS:
Major General Wayne P. Jackson; SSGT Walter Brown (first group of recipients); Specialist Brian Desantis (first group of recipients); Congressman Allen West; Congressman Ted Deutch; Senator Jeff Atwater; Tara Laxer; WWII Nurse Colonel Banna Ghioto; Former Vietnam POW Bill Arcuri; Former News Anchor and Reporter Corey Saban; National Recording Artist/W4CY Radio & I-TV Host-JD Danner; and National Country Singer, Amber Leigh along with Betty Thomas, of the Condo News.
In the Florida Keys: Radio D.J. (Thunder Country 100.3) and local Celebrity, Dougie Hitchcock; Radio D.J. and local celebrity, Captain Don Mull (Keys Radio Group), Fisherman.
