Red, White & You: Honoring Missouri’s Military Heroes

Missouri has a storied tradition of military service, with countless individuals dedicating their lives to protecting our nation. While words can't fully capture the immense gratitude we feel for our servicemen and women, Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to highlight a few remarkable veterans and active-duty military members from our state. Read about their stories below, and if you know a military hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

1. Wayne Kaufman

Wayne Kaufman, a Vietnam War veteran from St. Louis, was inducted into the Missouri Veterans Hall of Fame in 2024 in recognition of both his military service and continued support of fellow veterans. Kaufman served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971, earning the Bronze Star Medal as a sergeant in the 25th Infantry Division. After returning home, he founded The Kaufman Fund in memory of his brother Ralph, offering critical resources to veterans such as dental care, holiday assistance and support for homeless individuals. Though he says closure never truly comes for Vietnam vets, Kaufman’s enduring mission is to ensure other veterans get the care and recognition they deserve. Read more here.

2. Darryl Mosby Sr.

Marine Corps veteran Darryl Mosby Sr. was named the 2024 Male Hero of the Year by New Directions for Veterans. Originally from St. Louis, Mosby enlisted in 1984 and served in logistics and data operations until his discharge in 1988. After struggling to transition to civilian life, he joined the New Directions program, which led to a career at the West Los Angeles VA Campus. Today, Mosby serves as the Senior Shift Manager at Avatara, overseeing more than 70 employees. He credits the organization with opening his eyes to new possibilities and helping him rebuild his life and career. Read more here.

3. SSG Gabrielle Hulett

Staff Sgt. Gabrielle Hulett of the Missouri Air National Guard was honored during Governor Mike Kehoe’s 2025 inauguration for breaking barriers and excelling in service. A member of the 139th Airlift Wing Security Forces Squadron, she became the first female Phoenix Raven in her unit—an elite security force trained to protect aircraft in high-threat areas. In addition to completing a critical detainee movement operations mission, Hulett is pursuing a nursing degree with distinction, highlighting her achievements in both military and academic settings. Read more here.

4. Harry Brown

Harry Brown, a World War II veteran from Washington, Missouri, celebrated his 100th birthday on Apr. 1, 2025. Born in the same farmhouse as his father and grandfather, Brown enlisted in the Army in 1944 and fought in the brutal Campaign of Okinawa, where he spent 52 days in a foxhole. After the war, he returned home, married and enjoyed a successful civilian career as a divisional sales manager for Purina. His milestone birthday served as a reminder of the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation and the resilience that defined his century of life. Read more here.

5. Charles Dickinson

Vietnam veteran Charles Dickinson of Hartville was honored at Missouri’s 2025 Salute to Heroes event for his tireless advocacy on behalf of veterans. A VFW leader for five decades, Dickinson played a major role in supporting legislation such as the second GI Bill and the PACT Act, which expanded benefits and healthcare access for veterans and their families. His efforts earned him the Lifetime Achievement Award from the VFW in 2022. Dickinson’s recognition symbolizes a lifelong commitment to service, both on the battlefield and in legislative halls. Read more here.

Do you know a veteran or active military member who deserves recognition? We’d love to hear their story! Click here to nominate them for a chance to be featured on Patch!