Atlas

Jack enlisted in the Marine Corps at the age of 17. He was assigned for 1/24 A Co, 4th Marine Division. He took part in funeral duties and fundraisers for fallen Marines. His primary military occupational specialty was Machine Gunner 0331 where he employed the M240B machine gun.

Jack pursued his degrees during this time in hopes of receiving a commission to fly for the Marine Corps. During his time in college and service in the Marine Corps, while in college he was awarded Dean's list 3 times. Jack received his pilot's license during this time.

Jack put college, flight school, and his business on hold after the call for help from President Zelenskyy for anyone who can hold a weapon. Jack, without regard for his safety, bought a plane ticket on his 22 birthday (February 25th) to come and help fight off the Russian aggressors and got right to work. In the first week, Jack helped extract 12 families. When he could have left he continued and continues to fight the Russian aggressor, and will continue to supply critical aid to service members, refugees as well as the people of Ukraine.

Darion Hester, who everyone calls Tex, is a proud Texan from San Antonio, and a recent addition to Atlas Global Aid‘s efforts in Ukraine.

During the invasion and occupation in Winter 2022, Darion found it difficult to reconcile with the conflict from his home in San Antonio, and very quickly made the decision that he wanted to help those in Ukraine who did not have adequate resources to protect and defend themselves.

Despite having no prior military experience, Darion made the decision to travel to Ukraine to join the fight to protect Ukraine from the Russian aggressors. He first met Jack when they found themselves in the same group of volunteers in Spring 2022. Darion is a comforting and emotional person and he uses those qualities to drive his passion to help others.

Because of his selfless attributes and willingness to serve others, Tex has found a home with Atlas Global Aid. He will often be found working on projects that provide aid and comfort to those in need. He spends his free time reading and has started to explore all that the beautiful country of Ukraine has to offer. Tex is ready to stand with Atlas Global Aid and fight for a better future and Atlas is proud to have him on board.

Madelyn enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17, where she served on active duty for over 5 years. She held billets in almost every available environment as a Navy Corpsman, including beginning her tour of duty with three years in the Emergency Department, Labor and Delivery, and the Multiservice Ward. Madelyn made the move to "green side" and spent the final two years of her enlistment working with the Marine Corps supporting 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and various other Marine Corps units. While on active duty, she pursued her degree in Criminal Justice, and almost concurrently with her honorable discharge from the United States Navy, she received her B.S. in Criminal Justice. 

In June of 2022, the day her contract ended as an active duty sailor, Madelyn flew directly to Poland and made her way to Ukraine, using her expertise to assist a non-governmental organization in training military members and civilians in Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC). She has a passion for the impact that well-practiced medicine can have on an individual and loves to share the skills and knowledge she attained and honed in the U.S. Navy with the people in her family's ancestral home of Ukraine. 

Shortly after arriving in Ukraine, Madelyn started working alongside Jack Frye, President of Atlas Global Aid. Jack realized that Madelyn shared the same passion and vision for helping people that embodies the ethos of Atlas Global Aid. While they completed numerous tasks that were deemed to be improbable, at best, and nigh-unto-impossible, at worst, they determined that Madelyn would be a great fit for the Atlas team as a Director of a medical program. In December of 2022, based on her dedication to Atlas' vision, her relentless drive, and her forethought pertaining to future operations. Atlas' founding members voted to bring Madelyn on board as their Chief Medical Advisor.

A lifelong resident of the Gulf Coast region, Madelyn enjoys surfing, paddle boarding, and scuba diving when she travels home to visit family. Her work-related passions include traveling to conflict regions around the globe and assisting trauma and operating teams in high-stress environments.

Meet Rima Ziuraitis, a remarkable individual driven by a deep sense of civic responsibility and a passion for volunteering and advocating for causes close to her heart. With a strong educational background and an unwavering commitment to making a difference, Rima has become a valued member of numerous organizations and a tireless advocate for the Ukrainian community.

Rima's journey began at North Central College, where she pursued majors in Political Science and Philosophy, accompanied by minors in History and International Relations. It was during her time at college that she became inspired to not only fulfill her civic duties but also actively engage in volunteer work, both locally and internationally. This drive led her to embrace a wide range of responsibilities and leadership roles within various community organizations.

At the core of Rima's dedication is her deep connection to the Lithuanian community in Chicago. As an active member, she has taken on pivotal roles as a board member of the Chicago Lithuanian World Center, the Lithuanian Research and Studies Center, Baltic American Freedom League, Vilnius-Chicago Sister Cities, and others. Rima's commitment to service extends further as she is also a Rotarian, embodying the spirit of community service and fostering positive change.

Rima's advocacy efforts have also extended to important national and international issues. Over the years, she has been a vocal advocate for Baltic and Ukrainian matters on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., engaging in discussions surrounding topics of significant importance that intersect with the interests of the United States. Her active involvement and dedication in raising awareness and driving meaningful conversations have made a significant impact.

However, Rima's connection to Ukraine and her commitment to supporting its people emerged in a profound way in 2014 during the first invasion. Together with the Lithuanian community, she organized solidarity protests in Chicago, standing side by side with the Ukrainian community and demanding attention to the crisis. This passion for justice and humanitarian aid led her to Washington, D.C., where she worked with these groups to elevate awareness and push for meaningful action.

As the second invasion by Russia into Ukraine unfolded, Rima's dedication to helping those in need intensified. She dedicated countless hours of her time to volunteering for various organizations, tirelessly procuring and providing humanitarian and military aid, both in the United States and Ukraine. Rima's efforts spanned a wide range of initiatives, from procuring and delivering essential supplies to the Ukrainian defense forces, such as drones, tactical medicine, and protective gear, to supporting the civilian population through initiatives like providing holiday gifts for children and medical equipment. Her unwavering commitment to advocating for Ukraine and sharing firsthand insights with Congressional members has made a significant impact in raising awareness and fostering support for the people affected by the conflict.

With her extensive experience, unwavering dedication, and compassionate spirit, Rima Ziuraitis has become an invaluable asset to the cause of supporting Ukraine and advocating for positive change. Her tireless efforts and passionate commitment continue to inspire others and make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.

Ron Carter, a highly accomplished and multi-talented individual with a passion for aviation, firearms, tactical combat casualty care (TCCC), historical research, and philanthropy. As the Vice President of Save the Second, Ron brings his expertise and dedication to the Atlas' mission.

Originally from the vibrant state of Arkansas, Ron made the decision to relocate to Colorado Springs in 2006, seeking new opportunities and challenges. With a wealth of experience in aviation, Ron has established himself as a respected professional in the field. His extensive knowledge and skills have allowed him to excel in various roles within the industry, demonstrating his commitment to excellence and unwavering attention to detail.

In addition to his aviation background, Ron has made significant contributions as a firearms and Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) instructor. Previously serving as the Chief Firearms Instructor at Redleg Tactical, Ron played a pivotal role in educating and training numerous students in the intricacies of small arms methodology. His ability to impart knowledge and instill a strong sense of responsibility and safety has made him a trusted and sought-after instructor in the field.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Ron's interests extend to the realm of history. He has delved deep into the historical and contemporary contexts of various regions, with a particular focus on Ukraine. Driven by a genuine curiosity and a desire to make a positive impact, Ron has dedicated a significant amount of his time to assisting charitable organizations in Ukraine. His commitment to helping those in need stems from his firm belief in taking action rather than turning a blind eye to the world's challenges.

Complementing his wide-ranging expertise, Ron is also an accomplished competitor in the realm of defensive pistol shooting. As a Master Class International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) competitor in the United States, he continuously hones his skills and pushes the boundaries of his abilities. Ron's dedication to his craft showcases his unwavering commitment to personal growth and the pursuit of excellence.

In summary, Ron is a multifaceted individual whose professional accomplishments and diverse interests have shaped him into a well-rounded individual. His extensive knowledge and experience in aviation, firearms instruction, historical research, and philanthropy, coupled with his competitive spirit in the world of defensive pistol shooting, make him a true asset to any organization or endeavor he undertakes.