We Are The Mighty unveils 2026 Mighty 25 honorees
On September 1, 2026, We Are The Mighty unveiled the 2026 Mighty 25, an annual accolade recognizing veterans, military spouses, creators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who are dedicated to improving the lives of service members and military families. This year, the list highlights individuals across various sectors who are making a tangible difference through their work and influence.
The 2026 class of Mighty 25 is distinguished not by a shared title or industry, but by a collective commitment to action. Their efforts span a wide range of initiatives, from expanding access to care and opportunity, to strengthening military families and preserving the legacy of service. Each honoree brings a unique perspective to the table, yet their common thread is a deep-seated belief in the power of personal and communal action.
"Through the Mighty 25, we showcase that the military-veteran community takes a proactive approach to creating positive change," said Blake Stilwell, Editor-In-Chief of We Are The Mighty. "This year's honorees exemplify the military ethos of caring for our people and future generations. Their work is a testament to the advocacy, education, and unity that drive our support systems forward."
The 2026 Mighty 25 includes a diverse group of leaders: - Jennifer Ballou, a Gold Star family leader and advocate for memorial preservation. - Richard Brookshire, a Black veteran championing policy and equity. - Sharene Brown, founder of Five & Thrive and a key voice for military family quality of life. - Amber Capone, a driving force behind veteran mental health treatment reform. - Verenice Castillo, a leader in military spouse mentorship and network building. - Jason David, a veteran storyteller and resilience advocate. - Holly Dailey, a leader in Army family readiness. - Sam Eckholm, a storyteller and creator of military aviation content. - Kenneth Fisher, a leader in military family philanthropy. - David Higgins, a pioneer in veteran homelessness solutions. - Ryan Patrick Hunt, an innovator in veteran employment and recruiting. - Kerry Irvin, a leader in special operations family support. - Meaghan Keeler, a builder of the global special operations community. - Michelle Lang, a rural veteran resource connector. - Lydiah Owiti-Otienoh, an advocate for foreign-born military spouse inclusion. - Jen Pilcher, a military spouse entrepreneur and communications leader. - Mike Rowe, a champion for skilled trades and the workforce. - Suzy Malloy, a community connector for military families. - Mike Sherbakov, a veteran entrepreneur and investor. - Lori Simmons, a leader in military spouse recognition programs. - Rodney Smith Jr., founder of youth mentorship and community service. - Lyla Kohistany, a policy leader for veterans and Afghan allies. - Rosie and Leroy Torres, champions for toxic exposure reform and veteran health. - Melissa Washington, a leader in women veterans' community and entrepreneurship. - Robert Zachery III, a builder of veteran recognition and military legacy.
This year's Mighty 25 celebration coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Military Influencer Conference (MIC), which will take place in Tampa from September 23 to 26. The event is expected to draw nearly 4,000 attendees, including veterans, military spouses, entrepreneurs, advocates, and government leaders. TikTok will host the evening's official red carpet experience and cocktail hour, marking a significant milestone for the conference.
"We are proud to honor this year's Mighty 25, whose work is making a meaningful difference," said Katherine Torres-Pummill, General Manager of Recurrent Military. "Their impact varies, but what connects them is a shared commitment to supporting those who serve and their families."