Help honor and support our local heroes

Master Sergeant (ret) Chris Corbin entered military service in July 1995. Prior to becoming a Green Beret with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), he served in various Army units, including the 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, and the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.

On February 17th, 2011, Chris was on his 3rd tour to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). That day, he was on patrol with his Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) through a village in the Helmand Province, when he stepped on an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and suffered injuries to both legs, resulting in a Bilateral, Below-the-Knee (Bilat BK) amputation.

After stabilization, Chris was immediately sent to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, where he underwent several surgeries; after which, he embarked upon what was thought to be a long road to rehabilitation.

On July 15th, 2011, less than 5 months after his injury, he was medically cleared to Return to Duty (RTD) with the 7th Special Forces Group (A), where he remained on Airborne status until he retired.

On March 24th, 2012, 13 months after his injury, Chris ran his first 5K race to benefit the Fisher House on Eglin Air Force Base. His determination and will, coupled with the support and motivation provided by his teammates, enabled Chris to finish his first race in 27 minutes and 34 seconds.

Master Sgt Corbin is now retired, and he and his girlfriend, Kristi, breed, raise, train, and place Belgian Malinois and “Dutchies” Shepherds as specialty-trained service animals.

Major Karmon Dyches embodies the spirit of selfless service, drawing inspiration from her Navy Seabee father’s legacy. With a decade of active duty in the Army, Karmon has dedicated her life to defending her country and supporting her fellow service members.

Currently serving in the Army Individual Ready Reserve, Karmon’s journey has not been without its challenges. She has bravely faced the repercussions of a service-connected spinal injury, enduring constant pain and significant nerve damage that has affected her mobility and quality of life. Despite these obstacles, Karmon’s unwavering dedication to her mission remains a testament to her character.

In her role as a Sexual Assault Prevention Officer, she tackles one of the most pressing issues affecting women in the military, advocating for safety and support in a challenging environment. Karmon’s commitment to her fellow service members illustrates her relentless pursuit of a better, safer Army for all.

“My body, which once carried the weight of my gear and the responsibility of my duties, now bears the lasting scars of my service, a constant reminder of the sacrifices I made for this great country and for the betterment of the United States Armed Forces.”

Major Karmon Dyches is both a warrior in the field and a tireless advocate for positive change outside of it. She inspires others with her strength and dedication to service. Major Dyches serves as a powerful example of the sacrifices made by women in the military and the ongoing fight for respect and equality within its ranks.