Wyakin Honor Guard

The Wyakin Honor Guard recognizes those whose generosity honors the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of America’s heroes. Each giving level honors a medal awarded to servicemembers for extraordinary service, symbolizing your extraordinary commitment to empowering Wyakin Veterans as they pursue education, careers, and purpose.

Brandon Woodard, Wyakin Alumni

Being a member of the Wyakin program not only changed my life, but it also saved it. When I medically retired from the military, I found myself in a situation I had never experienced before; I had no mission and no team around me.

Wyakin provided what no other group or organization outside of the military was capable of, they gave me a purpose again. That is the foundation of this program, but it is not the only thing they do. During my time as a student-veteran in the program, I was given extensive support in my academics, in my personal health, and my professional career. I am currently the Director of Continuous Improvement and Operational Excellence for a global manufacturing company. Our President and CEO was introduced to me 10 years ago by the Wyakin Foundation. I would never have been able to find myself in a position where I can positively influence the lives of thousands of employees across our global company without Wyakin being there for me.

Additionally, this program provides us with the opportunity to pay it forward. After my journey through the program, I was able to become a mentor and be there for the next generation of veterans facing some of the same issues I experienced over a decade ago. This program is small with limited reach, but it is the most all-encompassing program out there. The situations Veterans face are not quick fixes, and I am a testament to the fact that Wyakin does not specialize in quick fixes. When they agree to support a Veteran, they are there for life as long as we have people and organizations willing to do their part and chip in to ensure the financial sustainability of this program.