Save the Brave (STB) is a certified, one hundred percent, nonprofit organization devoted to provide camaraderie and stress management programs. STB is committed to establishing connectivity of the mind, body, and spirit by creating solid support networks that are entirely accessible to all Veterans in need. Through diverse outreach programs and financial assistance, STB provides a safe and comfortable space for Veterans to connect with each other, share stories, struggles, and accomplishments to heal the wounds that go largely unseen. Our philosophy is simple. There is no pill, no prescription and no vaccination that can cure the effects of PTS better than connecting with fellow Veterans through shared experiences. Our strength comes through connection.
There is no easy way to talk about suicide. It is never easy. But this is the reason we came together at Save the Brave. After we lost our first Marine and brother to suicide, we started STB – just 5 months later we lost another friend who took his life. Our mission was clear.
Nick Velez
Nick is a native Californian. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2005. In 2006 Corporal Velez deployed with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion 4th Marines as part of the Surge Strategy into the most dangerous cities of Iraq. Nick is the owner of Bastard’s American Canteen – proudly named after his battalion. Through his business and network, Nick discovered that his passion for helping Veteran’s with PTS was his calling. He remains a staunch advocate for the Veteran community he proudly serves through outreach and fundraising efforts to give back to those in need.
Ernesto Delgado
Ernie is a Vietnam Veteran and spent thirteen months in Vietnam serving with 3d Battalion, 26th Marines in some of the toughest fighting during the historic urban battle of Khe Sanh. He was a squad leader and Grunt in an era of war that rivaled by few others. Still missing the chaos of battle, Ernie has nonetheless stayed connected to the brotherhood of Marines and has dedicated himself to helping others, like him, that battle the effects of PTS.
Eulalo “Lalo” Lopez
Eulalio is an emergency room and mental health nurse with fifteen years of active duty and Naval Reserve service. He served as a US Navy Hospital Corpsman with the United States Marine Corps during combat operations in Iraq. He has operated in the most challenging environments and collaborated with military services around the globe in medical and research programs. His experience helps support the mission of Save the Brave and the Veteran communities they serve. He is an avid outdoorsman, angler, and horseman and shares his passions to help bring veterans together in a safe environment to heal and connect.
Emmanuel “Manny” Maeda
Manny is a former Sergeant in the US Marine Corps with 8 years of service — from team leader to platoon sergeant, he led Marines in countless combat operations in the Middle East. Additionally, he instructed at 1st Marine Division Schools preparing small unit leaders for combat deployments. He now serves as the Chief Operations Officer for Bastards American Canteen and Chairman for MPOD Management Group. Manny is an avid outdoorsman and has dedicated countless hours of his time to continue to serve and support Save The Brave outreach programs and our Nation’s veterans.
