Save the Brave (STB) is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans’ mental health. We believe that the cornerstone of mental health for veterans lies in physical fitness, self-worth, and community. Our goal is to connect veterans through outreach programs, fostering a sense of community and building the strength of character essential for their well-being. Together, we aim to create a supportive environment that empowers veterans on their journey to improved mental health and overall resilience. No pill, prescription, or vaccination 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.
Rob Fierro
Robert Fierro brings over 15 years of business development and management experience, excelling in both corporate and entrepreneurial settings. With a background at a Fortune 500 company and as an entrepreneur, he is skilled in driving revenue growth through key account management and team leadership. A combat veteran and United States Marine Corps alum, Rob is dedicated to Save The Brave's mission to prevent veteran suicide. As Treasurer, he oversees financial management, budget creation, and compliance, ensuring efficient resource allocation. Rob also develops fundraising strategies to maximize the impact of Save The Brave's initiatives, positively affecting veterans and their communities
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.
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.
Andrew Gruel
Andrew Gruel, a Patriot & Executive Director at Save The Brave, has been a dedicated supporter since 2015. An American chef and television personality, Andrew has appeared on Food Network’s “Food Truck Face Off” and FYI’s “Say It to My Face!”. As the founder of Slapfish and several other restaurants, he brings substantial business acumen and a vast network to support Save The Brave’s mission. Andrew, along with his wife Lauren & family, is committed to the American dream and passionately supports veterans.
Dominic "Chacho" Chavez
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran
Annabel Fernandez
Patriot
