Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Louisiana State University
Lina enlisted in the Marine Corps for a challenge that would provide guidance and direction in her life.
She deployed twice to the Helmand Province in Afghanistan during her time in the Marines. The first was with her unit as an Osprey helicopter airframes mechanic and the second as a member of the female engagement team (FET) where she was attached to two infantry units. During her second deployment, her team experienced heavy enemy fire and mortar attacks resulting in fellow Marines as well as Afghans losing their lives. As a result, she developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Upon her discharge, Lina struggled with the transition to civilian life. With the support of her family and therapist, she continues to work through her struggle of anxiety and depression. While recovering, Lina decided that she wanted to complete her higher education. Sentinels of Freedom was there to provide her the support she needed to attain this goal in the form of housing and living subsidies and financial coaching. Lina is currently attending Louisiana State University and working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering. She hopes to eventually work in an environmental capacity where she can help make the Earth more sustainable.
Stay Updated
Join our Mailing List to receive updates on Sentinels of Freedom and the Veterans we support
I want to receive recurring automated text messages from Sentinels of Freedom with updates about how to stay involved, such as recommended events and other actions. Message and data rates may apply. To stop receiving messages text STOP to 90975. By opting in you agree to our Mobile Terms & Conditions.
David Halverson
Lieutenant General Halverson, U.S. Army (retired)
President of Cypress International
Samantha Chapman
Vice President of Programs
Sentinels of Freedom
“Following along the side of our Sentinels journey, from application to graduation and beyond, I have witnessed the growth, success, and positive impact the Bridge for Education program provides. Sentinels of Freedom offers support when the tough situations arise, encouragement along the way, and celebrates as goals are accomplished.”
Board of Directors
Secretary, 2007-2019
“Our focus on ‘education first’ is spot on with what most wounded veterans need most. That includes an individual, hands-on focus on each veteran, including the commitment to support them until they graduate.”
Dan Coleman
Director of Design
Planning Engineering and Construction for River Islands Development
“I was fortunate to be there at the start of Mike Conklin’s vision for what Sentinels of Freedom would become today. As with many great endeavors, they tend to start with a small simple step. Mike came to my office and expressed his desire to help a local wounded warrior with his need for housing upon his discharge and return home. I was grateful for the opportunity to help and offer him housing.”
Pete Walsh
Founder, President, and CEO
Owards LLC
“I like that Sentinels requires its candidates to be accountable — to go back to school or work as soon as their injuries allow. I also like the requirement to meet with a financial planner to get their financial lives in order.”
HT Tran
Graduated Sentinel
Founder, CEO, and President
DNW Ventures, Inc
“What makes the SOF programs different from other similar programs? SOF has higher expectations — it’s about ‘earning rather than giving.’ That’s why I see our Sentinels as ‘thrivers’ not just ‘survivors.’ ’’
Chris Marzilli
Executive Vice President
Information Technology and Mission Systems General Dynamics
“I see Sentinels not as a charity but as an investment vehicle. The upside created by unlocking the potential of these veterans is truly ‘off the charts.’”
Ron Lowe
Major General Ronald Lowe, US Army (retired)
Executive Director of General Contracting (retired) AT&T
“These men and women stepped up to defend America, and they’ve been injured in the line of duty. It’s our obligation to look out for them.”
Mary King
Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Diversity Officer
Pacific Gas & Electric
“I can tell you from personal experience that transitioning from military to civilian life is not easy. The rules are different. The pace is different. Especially if there’s a significant injury.”
Stacy Hadeka
Senior Associate in Government Contracts
Hogan Lovells US LLP
“Each Sentinel leaves the program with a new mission, a new purpose, and the support he or she needs to build a great future.”
Jason Church
Graduated Sentinel
State Counsel
Office of US Senator Ron Johnson, Wisconsin
“I may have lost my legs, but the Sentinels program has given me a big step forward into a new life. And importantly, the help we Sentinels get is not temporary, not just a one-time gift … Its benefits are there for the rest of our lives.”
Kent StrazzaBoard Treasurer
Managing Director
Alternatives Group Franklin Templeton Investments (Retired)
“It is our responsibility as Americans to support those who serve and protect our freedoms. The Sentinels program is about hands-on support for severely injured vets. It prepares them for the future.”
Mike Sandy
Board Secretary and CFO
Sentinels of Freedom
“Over the history of our great nation, the price of our freedom and safety has been paid by men and women who were willing to serve. Our wounded veterans have paid a disproportionate share of that burden. Sentinels of Freedom helps give some back by helping these exceptional soldiers in their transition to exceptional civilians.”
Mike Conklin
Chairman and CEO
Sentinels of Freedom
“In SOF’s mission, we are meeting our national responsibility as citizens to support those severely wounded veterans who have served and sacrificed to defend our freedom.”