CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Andrew "Ace" Linares, Chief Executive Officer of HATSOFF, is an epitome of dedicated service and innovative leadership. As a distinguished U.S. Army veteran, Ace has transferred his sense of duty into making a tangible difference in the lives of transitioning service members. Born and raised in Allen Park, Michigan, Ace enlisted in the US Army at the age of 18 and served with distinction until 2013. His notable military achievements include a Presidential Commendation from George W. Bush, MACOM Soldier of the Year in 2008 and 2009, and an impressive tenure as a BDE Senior Intelligence Sergeant, culminating in the rank of SSG/E6. Following his military service, Ace pursued his academic interests, earning an Associate's Degree in Security Management from the American Military University, a major in Philosophy and a minor in Latin American Studies from Wayne State University, and completing a Nonprofit Executive Management Graduate Program at Cornell University. Ace's commitment to leadership and service extends to his academic journey, where he served as the Vice-President of the Philosophy Club at Wayne State University and engaged in a Sociological Sustainability Field Study at the University of the Sunshine Coast. He recently completed the Executive MBA program at the University of Michigan - Stephen M. Ross school of Business

A Pioneer in Veterans Services

Under Ace's guidance, HATSOFF introduced the groundbreaking PCA (Prior to, Current, & After Crisis) Long-Term Care Model. This has reshaped the traditional support structures for veterans, offering enduring solutions in various stages of crisis, and has become a blueprint for other organizations to follow. Ace's focus on leveraging real-time data to identify high-risk veterans has set HATSOFF apart as a front-runner in personalized care. He innovated a system that utilizes data analytics to create visual heat maps, helping the organization to focus its resources on the most pressing needs within the veteran community.

Expanding Housing Solutions

Notably, Ace led HATSOFF in its strategic partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. This allows the organization to provide hotel vouchers for homeless veteran families on a case-by-case basis, filling a critical gap in the current housing programs aimed at single veterans.

Building Skills and Future

Under his leadership, HATSOFF offers comprehensive services including career scholarships, financial literacy courses, and mentorship programs. The focus is not just on immediate relief but on empowering veterans to be independent and self-sufficient in the long run.

Community Partnerships

Ace has been instrumental in creating strong community networks, partnering with legal organizations to offer free services to homeless veterans and at-risk populations, fortifying HATSOFF's pursuit of a vision for a future where no veteran transitions alone, ever again.

Paul Vidal is a seasoned executive with a track record of driving operational excellence and innovation. Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of HATSOFF, Paul has brought his extensive experience and leadership to the organization, making a significant impact over the past year.

Before joining HATSOFF, Paul served as the Head of Operations for GrayMatter Robotics, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the field of artificial intelligence-enabled robotics. His work in automating challenging industrial and maintenance tasks, such as sanding, demonstrated his commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for practical applications. Paul's impressive educational background includes earning an MBA from Harvard and graduating from the Naval Academy. As an 11-year veteran of both the US Navy and the UK Royal Air Force, where he served as a jet pilot, he gained invaluable leadership experience in high-pressure, dynamic environments.

Throughout his career, Paul has excelled in various roles, spanning Operations, Finance, Digital Marketing, Consulting, e-Commerce, Business Development, and Fund-raising. His ability to adapt and excel in diverse domains showcases his versatility as a leader.

As the COO of HATSOFF, Paul has applied his multifaceted skill set to enhance the organization's operational efficiency, foster strategic growth, and drive impactful initiatives. His contributions have not only streamlined internal processes but have also strengthened external partnerships and collaborations. In the past year, Paul's impact as COO can be seen in the improved operational performance of HATSOFF, the successful execution of key initiatives, and the organization's ability to reach new milestones. His leadership has been instrumental in aligning HATSOFF with its mission of serving veterans and their families effectively.

Under Paul's guidance, HATSOFF has achieved remarkable progress, making a positive difference in the lives of those it serves. His dedication to the organization's mission and his ability to lead diverse teams make him an invaluable asset to HATSOFF as its COO.

Jason R. Dummer is a dedicated and accomplished professional with a diverse background spanning military leadership, finance, entrepreneurship, and aviation. Now stepping into his role as Finance Director at Honoring All The Sacrifices, Jason brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. With over two decades of military service as a Warrant Officer in the Army Reserves, Jason has demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational efficiency. Previously, he held the position of Vice President of Acquisitions at Infinite Equity Capital, where he excelled in financial analysis, due diligence, and deal structuring.

As an accomplished real estate professional and investor, Jason founded and served as President of Next Chapter Properties. His deep understanding of the real estate market and entrepreneurial mindset have led to lucrative opportunities and exceptional investment returns. Holding an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Finance from the University of Illinois, Jason's expertise spans business development, innovation, and strategic management.

In addition to his professional achievements, Jason is an avid aviation enthusiast and serves as a pilot with the US Civil Air Patrol, a volunteer organization supporting emergency services and aerospace education. He is also a passionate foodie who enjoys exploring diverse cuisines and cultures during his travels. Jason’s thirst for knowledge and personal growth fuels his continuous pursuit of new experiences, and he embraces opportunities to network with individuals from various backgrounds and industries.

Outside of his professional endeavors, family plays a significant role in Jason's life. As a father to his two children, Parker and Alena, spending quality time with his family and supporting their aspirations brings him immense joy. Jason’s diverse background in military leadership, finance, real estate, entrepreneurship, and aviation positions him as an invaluable asset to Honoring All The Sacrifices as Finance Director. His strategic financial acumen, passion for innovation, and strong interpersonal skills make him an integral part of our executive team.

Wes Gideon is the Deputy Executive Director of Honoring All The Sacrifices of Freedom Fighters. He is married to his wife Amy, and they have 3 children. We grew up in Texas and spent 4 years as an Officer in the United States Army; on active duty he served in Fort Bliss, TX, Fort Polk, Louisiana, and spent a year deployed to Kuwait. Upon leaving active-duty Wes joined the Army Reserves where he currently serves in the metro-Detroit area as a LTC.

His civilian experience includes Logistics and Operations management experience at FCA where he worked at local Assembly Plants in Trenton Michigan and Sterling Heights, Michigan. Wes currently works as a Program Analyst at the Army Tank and Automotive Command in Warren, Michigan. Wes Gideon's education includes a BA from Evangel University, MA from University of Texas at EL Paso, and an MBA from California Intercontinental University. 

Darren Leis is the Chief of Staff to the Executive Director of Honoring All The Sacrifices of Freedom Fighters (HATSOFF). He is the husband of Staci and father of five remarkable children, D’Artagnan (19), John (16) Abygail (13), Darren Jr. (12), Annebeth (6). Darren currently holds positions such as Counsel to Judge Executive of Jackson County for War on Teen Drug use; Educator for Jackson County, Kentucky school district; Community Leader for War on Teen Drugs for Jackson County, Kentucky and surrounding counties; Committee member for Jackson County, Kentucky Tourism Committee; and Project Leader for Recreation Economy for Rural Communities; Committee member of the Truck Safety Coalition, and Haven Care Center volunteer. Darren and his family attend the First Baptist Church of London and enjoys singing every Sunday with the choir. He is also a Retired Sergeant First Class of 20 years that served in the United States Army.

Darren Leis's education includes Graduate study from Kairos University with a Masters of Divinity and Devry University with a B.S. in Business Management. Certified Associate of Project Management Professional, Professional Certificate in Team Leadership, Certification of Society Human Resources Management, Certificate of Human Resources Management, and Certified Professional in Talent Development. Military achievements all not inclusive are as follows: Combat Action Badge, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2nd award), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal (6th award). Campaigns deployed under are OIF, OEF, OIR Veteran. Currently resides in McKee, KY.

"Never wait for success to just fall in your lap; seek it out and command its acknowledgement!"

          -- (Darren Leis; 2007) 

Guarionex “Tony”’ Baez is the Executive Director of Technology with Honoring All The Sacrifices of Freedom Fighters (HATSOFF). USMC 99–07, Sgt

Tony currently works as the Director of Customer Implementations and Customer Success for a Detroit Based Tech company that is disrupting the Construction industry and consulted other startup & mid-sized businesses globally.  With hundreds of customer implementations,  change management, and IT projects completed under his belt, he has helped companies secure over $50 million in Annual recurring revenue in the last 15 years.  

Internal operations and IT change agent, thought leader delivering transformative and incremental improvement. Skilled in technology related to sales, finance, human resources, and back-office disciplines. Adept at engaging executive decision-makers and process stakeholders to identify and solve authentic business issues that keep solutions simple for end users. 

“The perfect blend of operational experience and technology achieves a high level of success for the organization.”

Eric Ribbentrop is the Executive Intelligence Director with Honoring All The Sacrifices of Freedom Fighters (HATSOFF). He is the husband of Danielle & father of four amazing kids, Isaac (14), Liam (12), Anya (5) & Ezren (3). 

Eric currently works as a management consultant with various startups & mid sized businesses globally.  With over two dozen completed assignments & 200+ contracts underbelt he has helped companies secure over $100 million in revenue in the last 15 years. This has taken the form of commercialization agreements & strategies (Branding, Sales & Marketing).  With activities like fundraising (Debt or Equity), origination & closing of Mergers & Acquisitions & Partnerships.  With the goal of driving rapid growth & scaling companies.

Coming of age as a homeschooler has created an intense curiosity for the world & how things are made & work.  To this end Eric is an avid reader & self learner. Today Eric is focused on an upcoming church plant & his local community.