104 Cassina Dr Longs SC 29568
donate@thosewhoservedfoundation.org
+1 (854) 854-6104
104 Cassina Dr Longs SC 29568
donate@thosewhoservedfoundation.org
+1 (854) 854-6104
Capt. Rick Roberts is the President and Founder of Those Who Served Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Veterans and first responders through therapeutic experiences on the water. The inspiration for the foundation began with his father, a 26-year U.S. Navy Commander who struggled with PTSD after his service. Seeing firsthand the challenges many Veterans face planted the seed for what would eventually become Those Who Served Foundation.
Rick’s love for the water began early. Growing up in Central Florida, he owned his first boat at just 14 years old and spent countless hours learning the waterways and developing a lifelong passion for boating and fishing. That passion ultimately led him to earn his U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master Captain’s License.
Before becoming a full-time captain, Rick spent 26 years with General Motors, building a successful career in the automotive industry. Eventually, he chose to follow his true calling—being on the water and serving others.
Capt. Rick is a devoted husband and a proud father who values family above all else. He is also a lover of nature and finds peace and purpose on the water. Today, as a charter captain and nonprofit leader, he combines his maritime experience with his passion for serving Veterans, helping them find camaraderie, healing, and a renewed sense of connection through time spent outdoors and on the water.
Capt. Rick Roberts is the President and Founder of Those Who Served Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Veterans and first responders through therapeutic experiences on the water. The inspiration for the foundation began with his father, a 26-year U.S. Navy Commander who struggled with PTSD after his service. Seeing firsthand the challenges many Veterans face planted the seed for what would eventually become Those Who Served Foundation.
Rick’s love for the water began early. Growing up in Central Florida, he owned his first boat at just 14 years old and spent countless hours learning the waterways and developing a lifelong passion for boating and fishing. That passion ultimately led him to earn his U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master Captain’s License.
Before becoming a full-time captain, Rick spent 26 years with General Motors, building a successful career in the automotive industry. Eventually, he chose to follow his true calling—being on the water and serving others.
Capt. Rick is a devoted husband and a proud father who values family above all else. He is also a lover of nature and finds peace and purpose on the water. Today, as a charter captain and nonprofit leader, he combines his maritime experience with his passion for serving Veterans, helping them find camaraderie, healing, and a renewed sense of connection through time spent outdoors and on the water.
Mike “Mo” O’Grady serves as Vice President of Those Who Served Foundation, bringing a servant-leader mindset, decades of professional experience, and a deep passion for supporting Veterans and their families.
Mike recently retired after a successful 25-year career as an Outside Sales Representative, spending more than two decades in the automotive and industrial lubricants industry. Throughout his career, he built a strong reputation for driving business growth, developing long-term client relationships, and delivering results through integrity and hard work. His veteran sales perspective and leadership experience bring tremendous value to the foundation as it continues to grow its mission and outreach.
Originally drawn south in 2004 by the region’s warm climate and renowned Southern hospitality, Mike first settled in Wilmington, North Carolina, before eventually making Conway, South Carolina his home.
Service runs deep in Mike’s family. His father served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era, and his son proudly served in the United States Navy. This strong military heritage has shaped Mike’s passion for advocating for Veterans and supporting programs that improve their quality of life.
When he’s not working to expand the foundation’s impact, Mike enjoys life on the open road as an avid motorcyclist, embracing the freedom and camaraderie that come with the riding community.
Mike’s blend of professional expertise, leadership, and heartfelt dedication to Veteran advocacy makes him a powerful addition to the leadership team at Those Who Served Foundation.
Capt. Dennis brings a lifetime of dedicated service, both on land and at sea, embodying the very mission of our foundation. A US Navy Veteran, Dennis transitioned from military service in 1979 to a distinguished career in law enforcement.
He recently retired after 45 years of service with the State Law Enforcement Agency (SCDES), as well as serving as a reserve officer with NMBPD for over two decades.
Beyond his law enforcement career, Dennis is a highly experienced mariner. He earned his 100-ton Master’s License from the USCG in 1981 and has spent years running offshore charters.
Dennis is now combining his professional expertise with his passion for supporting his fellow veterans and first responders. As a captain for our foundation, he is dedicated to getting our community out on the water—providing the peace, camaraderie, and relief that only time on the waves can offer.
Dennis is a devoted family man, married with two children and two grandchildren. We are incredibly fortunate to have his experience, leadership, and heart on our board.
Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Captain Dennis Sechler!
Capt. Dennis brings a lifetime of dedicated service, both on land and at sea, embodying the very mission of our foundation. A US Navy Veteran, Dennis transitioned from military service in 1979 to a distinguished career in law enforcement.
He recently retired after 45 years of service with the State Law Enforcement Agency (SCDES), as well as serving as a reserve officer with NMBPD for over two decades.
Beyond his law enforcement career, Dennis is a highly experienced mariner. He earned his 100-ton Master’s License from the USCG in 1981 and has spent years running offshore charters.
Dennis is now combining his professional expertise with his passion for supporting his fellow veterans and first responders. As a captain for our foundation, he is dedicated to getting our community out on the water—providing the peace, camaraderie, and relief that only time on the waves can offer.
Dennis is a devoted family man, married with two children and two grandchildren. We are incredibly fortunate to have his experience, leadership, and heart on our board.
Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Captain Dennis Sechler!
Darren Law is a native of East Tennessee and a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Following his military service, Darren built a successful career in the financial services industry, holding professional roles with major institutions including Truist Financial Corporation, JPMorgan Chase, and Wells Fargo. Throughout his career, he developed extensive experience in banking, client relations, and financial services leadership.
Now retired, Darren dedicates his time to pursuing personal passions such as woodworking and fishing, while continuing his lifelong commitment to service. He currently serves as a Board Member of Those Who Served Foundation, where he helps support programs that honor and assist Veterans and their families.
Darren has been married to his wife, Candice, for nearly 23 years. Together they have three sons and share a strong dedication to family, community, and supporting those who have served our country.
Those Who Shared Foundation is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jim Wilson to its Board of Directors. Mr. Wilson, a distinguished Army veteran and long-standing pillar of the technician and biker communities, brings a unique and invaluable perspective to the foundation’s mission.
Mr. Wilson’s background is defined by service and a steadfast commitment to his craft and community. He proudly served in the United States Army for eight years and is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm, demonstrating a deep dedication to his country.
Professionally, Mr. Wilson is an ASE Certified Technician with an impressive 25 years of experience, showcasing a relentless pursuit of technical excellence and precision.
Beyond his professional achievements, he is recognized for his active leadership within the biker community. As an avid motorcycle enthusiast, Mr. Wilson has dedicated countless hours to supporting and advocating for fellow riders, fostering strong connections and a robust network.
“We are truly honored to welcome Jim to our Board,” said Capt Rick Roberts . “His experience as a veteran, combined with his unparalleled technical expertise and his deep roots in the community, aligns perfectly with our core values. Jim’s dedication to service, both in uniform and as a civilian, makes him an exceptional fit for the Those Who Shared Foundation.”
In his new role on the Board, Mr. Wilson will leverage his experience to help shape the foundation’s strategic direction and enhance its outreach efforts. His insight as a fellow veteran and an active community member will be vital in further developing programs that effectively support those who have shared unique and challenging life experiences.
Please join us in giving Jim Wilson a warm welcome to the Those Who Shared Foundation Board!
Those Who Shared Foundation is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jim Wilson to its Board of Directors. Mr. Wilson, a distinguished Army veteran and long-standing pillar of the technician and biker communities, brings a unique and invaluable perspective to the foundation’s mission.
Mr. Wilson’s background is defined by service and a steadfast commitment to his craft and community. He proudly served in the United States Army for eight years and is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm, demonstrating a deep dedication to his country.
Professionally, Mr. Wilson is an ASE Certified Technician with an impressive 25 years of experience, showcasing a relentless pursuit of technical excellence and precision.
Beyond his professional achievements, he is recognized for his active leadership within the biker community. As an avid motorcycle enthusiast, Mr. Wilson has dedicated countless hours to supporting and advocating for fellow riders, fostering strong connections and a robust network.
“We are truly honored to welcome Jim to our Board,” said Capt Rick Roberts . “His experience as a veteran, combined with his unparalleled technical expertise and his deep roots in the community, aligns perfectly with our core values. Jim’s dedication to service, both in uniform and as a civilian, makes him an exceptional fit for the Those Who Shared Foundation.”
In his new role on the Board, Mr. Wilson will leverage his experience to help shape the foundation’s strategic direction and enhance its outreach efforts. His insight as a fellow veteran and an active community member will be vital in further developing programs that effectively support those who have shared unique and challenging life experiences.
Please join us in giving Jim Wilson a warm welcome to the Those Who Shared Foundation Board!
Kristin LoBuono proudly serves as the youngest member of the board, bringing energy, compassion, and a deep commitment to service to the mission. Originally from Paramus, New Jersey, Kristin moved to Carolina Shores, North Carolina in 2008 and quickly embraced the strong sense of community found along the Carolina coast.
Service has always been a central part of Kristin’s life. She comes from a family deeply dedicated to public service—one uncle proudly served in the United States Army before retiring from the U.S. Postal Service, while another served his community as a Captain with the Paramus Police Department. Their examples instilled in her a lasting respect for those who serve and sacrifice.
Kristin spent more than 20 years building a career in the customer service industry before transitioning into banking, where she has spent the past decade helping individuals and families navigate their financial futures. She finds great fulfillment in guiding clients toward financial confidence and stability.
Outside of her professional life, Kristin is a devoted animal lover and a certified volunteer at the Brunswick County Animal Shelter, which is operated by the Sheriff’s Office. Her compassion for others—both people and animals—reflects her deeply caring nature.
Kristin was honored to be invited to join the team and is proud to contribute to the organization’s mission of supporting veterans and first responders. She is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and understands the profound impact of PTSD through personal experiences in her own life. Her dedication, empathy, and heart for service make her a powerful voice for those who have sacrificed so much in service to others.
Bob White brings a lifetime of service, compassion, and dedication to his role on the board. Originally from West Virginia, Bob relocated to Carolina Shores, North Carolina six years ago, where he continues his commitment to serving others—especially his fellow veterans.
Bob proudly served his country as a combat medic from 1967 to 1969 with the 3rd Medical Battalion. During his time in uniform, he provided critical care to fellow service members under some of the most challenging conditions, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to helping those who served.
After his military service, Bob attended West Virginia State University and remained deeply connected to the veteran community. For four years, he served as a program lead supporting disabled veterans, helping coordinate activities and opportunities that brought camaraderie, healing, and connection to those who needed it most. He also played a leadership role in the Project Healing Waters program, an initiative that uses the therapeutic power of fly fishing to help veterans recover both physically and emotionally.
Today, Bob continues to share his passion for the outdoors and the water. He is an active member of two fishing clubs and particularly enjoys surf fishing along the Carolina coast. His love of fishing, combined with his deep respect for veterans, aligns perfectly with the mission of supporting and connecting those who have served.
Bob’s experience, leadership, and heart for veterans make him an invaluable part of the team and the mission to serve those who have sacrificed for our country.
Bob White brings a lifetime of service, compassion, and dedication to his role on the board. Originally from West Virginia, Bob relocated to Carolina Shores, North Carolina six years ago, where he continues his commitment to serving others—especially his fellow veterans.
Bob proudly served his country as a combat medic from 1967 to 1969 with the 3rd Medical Battalion. During his time in uniform, he provided critical care to fellow service members under some of the most challenging conditions, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to helping those who served.
After his military service, Bob attended West Virginia State University and remained deeply connected to the veteran community. For four years, he served as a program lead supporting disabled veterans, helping coordinate activities and opportunities that brought camaraderie, healing, and connection to those who needed it most. He also played a leadership role in the Project Healing Waters program, an initiative that uses the therapeutic power of fly fishing to help veterans recover both physically and emotionally.
Today, Bob continues to share his passion for the outdoors and the water. He is an active member of two fishing clubs and particularly enjoys surf fishing along the Carolina coast. His love of fishing, combined with his deep respect for veterans, aligns perfectly with the mission of supporting and connecting those who have served.
Bob’s experience, leadership, and heart for veterans make him an invaluable part of the team and the mission to serve those who have sacrificed for our country.
Ben Lathrop brings a lifetime of hard work, dedication to family, and a deep respect for those who serve to his role with the organization. Born and raised in San Carlos, California, Ben later relocated to Norfolk, Virginia, where he began building a career rooted in technical skill and leadership.
In 1991, Ben graduated from the Advanced Technical Institute for Automotive Mechanics and quickly found his place in the high-performance automotive world. He worked with American Tire Distributors as a High-Performance Specialist, focusing on aftermarket wheels, tires, and suspension systems. His knowledge and passion for the industry later led him to Richmond, Virginia, where he served as Warehouse Manager for Custom Wheels Unlimited. Over the years, Ben continued to build his leadership experience by managing three independent automotive shops.
Today, Ben works as a Sales Representative for Gutter Techs, where his strong work ethic, customer focus, and ability to build relationships continue to serve him well.
Ben is also a proud father of three children—Cody, Courtney, and Keegan—who remain the center of his life and motivation.
Service to country runs deep in Ben’s family. His grandfather served as a retired Colonel in the U.S. Army Artillery. One uncle retired as a Lieutenant Colonel serving at the Pentagon, while another served as a Captain in the Army’s Judge Advocate General Corps. His cousin continues that tradition of service as an Army firefighter who completed three tours in Iraq and now serves with the Pasadena Fire Department and CAL Fire as a fire jumper.
Growing up surrounded by those who dedicated their lives to protecting others instilled in Ben a profound respect for the sacrifices made by our military and first responders. That respect fuels his passion for supporting organizations that care for those who have carried the weight of service. Ben is honored to be part of a mission that provides healing, camaraderie, and support to veterans who deserve nothing less than the nation’s gratitude and care.
