Julie Leland is a highly respected and distinguished veteran of the Air National Guard, having demonstrated exemplary service with the 115th Fighter Wing based in Madison, Wisconsin. Throughout her military career, she participated in two significant combat deployments to Qatar and Iraq, during which she played a crucial role in the management and handling of ammunition for F-16 fighter aircraft. Her responsibilities encompassed ensuring the operational readiness and safety of munitions, a task that necessitated meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to both her mission and her fellow airmen.

Following her military tenure, Ms. Leland transitioned to the field of mental health, dedicating sixteen years to a variety of impactful roles at the Madison VA Hospital. She currently serves as a VA Community Care Provider in her private practice, where she is deeply committed to assisting veterans who encounter unique psychological and emotional challenges. By formulating personalized care plans, she tailors her therapeutic approaches to address the diverse needs of each veteran, thereby fostering a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes healing and resilience.

Ms. Leland's profound sense of duty, in conjunction with a rich family legacy of military service, underpins her commitment to advocating for her fellow service members. As the President of the Veterans Care Trust Fund, she spearheads efforts to oversee and implement initiatives that provide essential resources to veterans in need. This role allows her to make a direct, positive impact on the lives of those who have served, ensuring they receive the care and support necessary for a successful transition into civilian life.

In addition to her work with the Veterans Care Trust Fund, Ms. Leland is an engaged member of her local American Legion, where she participates in community outreach and advocacy. Through these initiatives, she actively contributes to raising awareness about the challenges faced by veterans and works to provide solutions that create a meaningful difference in their lives. Her dedication reinforces the bonds of camaraderie that characterize military service, fostering a sense of community and support among veterans and their families.

Sandra Deich dedicated nearly seven years to serving as a Veterans Advocate within the Sauk County community. During her tenure at the Veterans Service Office, she significantly impacted the lives of veterans through her unwavering commitment to those who have served. Ms. Deich successfully developed innovative outreach programs aimed at assisting homeless veterans, as well as strategic plans designed to support individuals at risk of homelessness. A distinguishing factor in Ms. Deich's professional journey is her extensive experience working with survivors of sexual trauma, which has afforded her a unique perspective and skill set. Her steadfast dedication to military personnel and the families of veterans is evident in all her endeavors.

In her personal life, Ms. Deich shares a profound partnership with her husband, Darren, an Army retiree who dedicated over twenty years to the Field Artillery. Their marriage, now spanning thirty-two years, exemplifies the joys and challenges associated with military and post military life. This partnership has involved relocating to five different duty stations, including international assignments, and enduring two combat deployments. Throughout these transitions, Ms. Deich has not only provided support for her husband’s career but has also made invaluable contributions to the Army and Local communities they have joined by engaging in various roles and pursuing multiple professional opportunities.

Mrs. Deich's faith has been a constant source of guidance and comfort throughout her life, providing her with strength and resilience. Her experiences of trials and losses while serving alongside Darren have deepened her faith and fortified her resolve. These challenges have also fueled her passion for helping others, inspiring her to provide compassion and support to those in need.

Both Ms. Deich's and Mr. Deich's families have a legacy of military service with generations before them, which continues with one of their four children currently serving and other nieces and nephews in the armed forces. This generational commitment to service enriches Ms. Deich's advocacy work. Currently, she occupies the position of Vice President of the Veterans Care Trust Fund and in both the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion Auxiliaries. Furthermore, Ms. Deich is actively engaged in community advocacy efforts within Wisconsin’s rural communities, diligently working to ensure that the needs of veterans and their families receive appropriate attention.