Gretchen Evans, Military Hero Award

In 2024, Retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major Gretchen Evans received a Purple Heart nearly 20 years after being injured in combat—during a time when women weren’t allowed in combat. Evans is a fierce advocate for veterans and founded Team Unbroken, an adaptive racing team of mostly veterans who have experienced life-altering injuries, illness, or traumas.

Jimmy Graham, Military Advocacy Hero

A star tight end in the NFL, Graham was selected to the Pro Bowl five times and played for four different teams throughout his career. A passion for aviation led Graham to start The Jimmy Graham Foundation, which provides life changing and impactful experiences through the freedom of flight. The foundation works to recognize the accomplishments and sacrifices of veterans, and provides flights for underprivileged youth as an introduction to aviation.

Charles E. (“Chuck”) Fagan III, Corporate Hero Award

Chuck Fagan has served as Velera’s (formerly PSCU) president and chief executive officer since April 2015. In this role, he leads the strategic direction of the company and oversees all aspects of Velera’s operations. Fagan is an advocate for the credit union industry and an active member of the community. He has been a champion of Velera’s support of The PenFed Foundation, leading Velera to donate more than $1.1M throughout the last 10 years.

Native American Women Warriors, Community Hero

Mitchelene BigMan

Michelene BigMan was raised on and off the Crow Reservation in Montana and enlisted in the Army in 1987. She is the founder of Native American Women Warriors, a color guard of female Native American Veterans with the mission to bring attention to and honor the contributions of Native American women’s military service.

American Legion Post 20, National Press Club, Community Hero

Zack Baddorf, accepting award

Post 20 received its charter on November 19, 1919, after the urging of General John Pershing, the most celebrated commander of WWI. The NPC is a vigorous advocate of press freedom worldwide, just as Post 20 has represented the core value of service to country for more than 100 years. The award will be presented to Zack Baddorf, an accomplished international journalist, Navy veteran and Post 20 member who founded the nonprofit Military Veterans in Journalism.