Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Melody Wallace is a veteran of the United States Navy. She served as a hospital corpsman with the Marines from 1991-1995. Using her Montgomery G.I. bill to further her education, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, a Master’s degree in English, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work. She is in her 21st year of teaching as a JAG Specialist at Apollo High School. Mrs. Wallace enjoys using her heart for service to educate her students on the importance of our veterans and military service members, and is the president and co-founder of She’s the V.E.T. which seeks to increase visibility and support for female veterans who have proudly served our country.
Carlotta Richey is a proud US Army veteran who values her role as vice president and co-founder of this female-led nonprofit dedicated to serving, honoring, and elevating women who have worn the uniform. Rooted in the values of military service and community, her work focuses on recognizing and uplifting female veterans past, present, and future. She is committed to ensuring the service and sacrifice of women in the military are seen, respected, and celebrated.
Natasha Conkright is a 12 year U.S. Army combat veteran, the secretary, and one of the founding members of She’s the V.E.T. She is driven by a mission to empower female veterans through connection, leadership, and community support. Known for her resilience and determination, Natasha continues to lead from the front by advocating for visibility, opportunity, and recognition for women who have served. She is committed to ensuring that female veterans are not only heard, but respected and represented.
Melanie Wallace proudly served 23 years in the United States Army and Kentucky National Guard before retiring in 2018. For the past 20 years, she has been blessed with a strong, supportive marriage and two incredible sons. As she steps into this next chapter, she is passionate about empowering and mentoring young women entering the service, helping them navigate both the challenges and opportunities ahead. She also supports fellow veterans as a trusted resource, continuing her lifelong commitment to service, leadership,
and community.
Born in Indonesia, Carie White served as a Dental/Medic in the US Air Force and the Missouri Air National Guard from 1992-2000. After living all over the United States, Carie has called Hawesville home for 28 years and is the proud mom of two young adult children. She currently works as an Expanded Duty Dental Assistant (EDDA) for Dr. Meagan Aull. As the granddaughter of a WW2 era Navy veteran who served aboard the USS Franklin, the daughter of a Vietnam Army helicopter gunner, and the older sister to a retired USAF Fighter Pilot, her heart for service runs deep.
Suzanne Gochenouer is a six-year Vietnam-era United States Air Force veteran. She was one of the first women in the field of electronics, specifically Ground Radio Maintenance. Following her service, she supported America’s service men and women for another twenty years on government contracts for a large aerospace company. She is now in her third career as an editor, writer, ghostwriter, and writing coach. Suzanne is determined to share her knowledge and skills to empower service women from every decade and branch of service to find their voices and speak their truths both during and after service.
Angela Withers is a U.S. Army veteran, retired metallurgist, and advocate for veterans and community engagement. She is passionate about supporting female veterans through connection, visibility, and service. Angela has served on numerous nonprofit and civic boards, dedicating her time to leadership and volunteer efforts. Outside of advocacy work, she enjoys scuba diving and solo backpacking sections of the Appalachian Trail.