RhodaB4MVA2026

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Navarre, FL
RhodaB4MVA2026

As a MVA 2026 Semi-Finalist & retired USAF combat veteran, I advocate for women veterans facing homelessness.

Having overcome homelessness, MST, domestic violence & invisible disabilities, I serve w/ purpose,uplifting & empowering others beyond the inform

03/25/2026

I get to show off my Ms Veteran America shirt at our weekly veterans’ breakfast with the Lucky Bros. Proud to have “Served Like A Girl”! And what a great fit!

03/20/2026

Every Friday, something special happens behind the scenes at HighPoint Church.

Faithful hearts come together to serve…quietly preparing, cleaning, and making ready a place that will soon be filled with worship and community. These are the moments most people never see, yet they carry so much meaning.

I’m truly honored to serve alongside these incredible individuals. In the process, what started as simple acts of service has grown into something even more meaningful…genuine friendships, shared laughter, and a deeper sense of connection. There’s a special kind of bond that forms when people come together with a common purpose and a willing heart.

Grateful for this time, for these wonderful people, and for the reminder that some of the most beautiful parts of community are built in the quiet, faithful moments. 🥰🙏🏽

03/15/2026

Last night at UWF, our community came together for something deeply meaningful…to honor and welcome home Army veteran Hunter Girdner, a proud Cantonment native who was seriously wounded during Operation Epic Fury in Iran.

Hunter’s story is one of remarkable courage, but also of quiet humility. After serving our nation in uniform and later continuing his work as a defense contractor, he once again chose others over himself. When a teammate found himself in danger, Hunter didn’t hesitate. He ran back into the line of fire to help, an act of selflessness that left him with severe shrapnel wounds. His injuries were serious, requiring multiple life‑saving surgeries at Walter Reed, including the repair of his spleen and the removal of a kidney.

What struck me most, though, was not just the bravery of that moment…it was Hunter’s character. There was no desire for recognition, no need for the spotlight. Just quiet strength, humility, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the people around him. His actions remind us that the truest form of heroism often comes without fanfare. It is found in sacrifice, in courage, and in the instinct to put others before yourself when it matters most.

The evening was also a powerful reminder of how many veterans continue serving long after their time in uniform ends. Many in the room have transitioned from military service into leadership roles within our community…some even stepping forward to run for office. They may have traded their boots for suits, but the spirit of service that defined their military careers still guides them today.

Moments like this have a way of bringing a community together. They remind us of the cost of the freedoms we enjoy and the extraordinary people who are willing to bear that cost on behalf of others.

Hunter, welcome home. Northwest Florida stands with you, is proud of you, and will be beside you as you continue your recovery.

03/15/2026

Yesterday afternoon I had the privilege of joining my friends, Belinda Ganey and Norm LaFountaine at Ace’s for a private meaningful roundtable gathering with members of our community. Representatives from independent pharmacies and even local agricultural farmers came together to share how their industries are struggling to compete with large corporate systems and to discuss the challenges they face every day.

In the small, welcoming setting, they spoke openly about their concerns, experiences, and hopes for the future with Florida Lt. Governor Jay Collins, who is preparing to run for Governor in the next election. The format of the conversation made the moment especially impactful. It wasn’t a formal speech or political event…it was an honest dialogue where people could speak freely and know their voices were truly being heard.

Independent pharmacists and local farmers are pillars of our communities. They provide essential services, sustain local economies, and care deeply about the people they serve. The obstacles they face deserve real attention and thoughtful solutions.

What stood out most was seeing Jay Collins take the time to listen carefully and engage with everyone in the room. He expressed a sincere commitment to helping connect the right people and resources so that practical solutions can begin to take shape.

I also had the pleasure of lightening the moment a bit by asking our Lt. Governor…who is originally from Scobey, Montana, like my husband and children…whether he was a Griz fan or a Bobcat fan. Lol! We also shared other common connections, including both of us being Warrior Games athletes. We talked about how programs like the Warrior Games and nonprofits such as Catch A Lift Fund play such an important role in helping our nation’s warriors rediscover a new “why” through health, exercise, and competition.

Moments like this remind me that meaningful progress often begins with simple but powerful conversations…bringing people together, listening to real concerns, and working collaboratively toward a stronger future for our communities.

03/15/2026

Honored to support my friend, Brandi Mitchell and her nonprofit, Shadows of Strength, at the Pedals and Pop Ups event in Destin, Florida in celebration of Women’s History Month. This incredible gathering brought together more than 85 women‑owned businesses, creating a space filled with empowerment, connection, and purpose.

What made the day even more meaningful was the mission behind it. Shadows of Strength works to uplift survivors of human trafficking by giving them a platform to share their stories and helping connect them with the support services they need to heal and rebuild their lives. Being surrounded by so many women championing one another while supporting such an important cause was truly powerful.

I also had the privilege of meeting a local veteran and children’s author, Stephanie Hennessy, who is using storytelling to inspire the next generation. One of the books even highlights my friend, retired Army Combat Veteran Colonel Greg Gadson, whose resilience, courage, and leadership continue to inspire so many.

Events like this remind me that when women come together…with compassion, courage, and purpose…we create spaces where voices are heard, stories matter, and hope grows stronger.

02/27/2026

What an honor it was to attend the Navarre Chamber of Commerce Annual SAIL Awards and Installation Breakfast—a wonderful morning dedicated to celebrating leadership, service, and community spirit.

I was especially proud to see three incredible friends recognized as nominees for 2025:

Brandi Mitchell ( Shadows of Strength ) – Nonprofit of the Year
Lisha Wallace – Member of the Year
Carmen Reynolds – Citizen of the Year

Each of these women embodies strength, compassion, and dedication to making Navarre a better place. I’m deeply grateful to Brandi for inviting me to represent Shadows of Strength as a volunteer…it was a privilege to stand beside such inspiring leaders.

This morning reminded me how fortunate I am to be part of a community that uplifts, supports, and celebrates one another. My heart is full, and my pride in our Navarre community has never been stronger.

02/27/2026

Dressed for the Navarre Chamber’s SAIL Awards breakfast as if I were brunching in the Hamptons…nautical stripes, coastal flair, and captain’s confidence. Hoist the sails, darling… adventure awaits! ⚓️🌊⛵️

02/23/2026

Some legacies are not just remembered…they are carried forward through generations of service.

My husband, Josh…his grandfather was a United States Marine who fought on the black sands of Iwo Jima, one of the most defining and brutal battles in American history. His courage and sacrifice became the foundation of a legacy rooted in honor and unwavering commitment to country.

The second generation was his Uncle Bill, who also wore the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. During the Vietnam era, he volunteered to return to Vietnam…twice. That decision reflected a deep sense of duty…a willingness to step forward again, fully aware of the cost.

Then came Josh, earning the title of Marine and becoming a third‑generation Marine. Today, he continues serving our nation after transferring to the United States Air Force, with over 26 years of service and counting. Though his uniform has changed, the title never will. Once a Marine, always a Marine.

Three generations. One unbroken line of service. A legacy of sacrifice, strength, and steadfast devotion to something greater than self.

Semper Fidelis.

Address

123 USA Street
Navarre, FL
32566

Website

https://www.finalsaluteinc.org/Home.html

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