We need your help! Vote for us to win a $5,000 grant for our printing needs.
Visit bit.ly/OEWCG19 and vote for us!
top of page
news
Search
Nikki is a Sheriff’s deputy in Louisiana and can be seen doing the men’s weight during the Spartan events 💪🏼
What is your occupation? I am a sheriff's deputy.
How long have you been an OCA? Since the fall of last year.
How did you get involved? In 2017, I began running with another non-profit that raised money for one of my coworkers. He was severely injured in an ambush in 2016. I stayed with that team after they helped him; but while we were doing great things by assisting with financial needs of fallen and wounded officers and their families, I felt like something was missing. I found that connection in OEW by having the opportunity to run with honorees at races and see them overcome obstacles and regain confidence in their abilities.
Most memorable moment? I have two that are hard for me to choose between. Earlier this year, Jonathan Lopez tasked a bunch of OCAs over to the New Image Youth Center in Orlando. The objective was to build The Give Team an OCR playground to train on; if funds and time allow, they often run events with OEW. Lopez wasn't sure what job to give me and told me to "Figure it out". I left that day having bonded with a very sweet 6-year old that showed me all about the mission of NIYC.
The other is the moments post-race at the Spartan Super in Jacksonville with honoree Drew Stokes. We both ended up separated from the rest of the group as everyone took off to clean up; we were able to share about our experiences that day - he as an honoree and me as my first time running with an honoree. I showed up to be a supporter for Drew and his wife; and I left having been encouraged by Drew.
Why should people become OCAs for OEW? OEW is fully run by volunteers and all of our fundraising efforts go into the programs that assist them directly. I've seen the impact it's had on the lives of honorees and I truly believe OEW is helping save the lives of a population with a high suicide rate. Plus, there is the bonus of running with a bunch of friends - you're never alone on the course and you're on a mission that is greater than any medal you can get at the end of the race.
What’s the next OEW event you’re planning on attending? The Spartan Beast in Dallas in October will most likely be my next event.
Thank you for being a part of our family, Nikki! We love having you.
Q: What does your call sign mean to you?
A: Candor - Being open and honest in all communications. Being honest with people and treating them as they should be treated.
Q: What branch of the military or LEO did you serve in (or are currently serving in), for how long, and what was your job?
A: I currently serve in the United States Army. I have served for over 25 years. I work in Military Intelligence and serve as a senior leader in a Direct Report Unit (DRU) to the Department of the Army.
Q: Why did you commit to the Masked Athlete program?
A: I was drawn to the MAT by their athleticism, expertise with the Honorees, and their service without recognition. I had served with OEW as an OCA for several years and had never considered applying for the MAT. I guess you could say I as a very committed OCA and several team members and MAT members recognized that. They convinced me that I could give more to the Honorees and the organization that I had come to love.
Q: Motto or principle you live by.
A: Thinking ”Here goes Nothing” could be the start of EVERYHTING!
Q: What piece of advice would you give someone who is interested in becoming a MAT?
A: First, know your ‘why’. Why do you want to be on this field? Why do you want to put yourself through the physical stressors on a consistent basis? This is all about the Honorees, and those around them. It is about the team members to your left and right. It is about the OCAs and those seeing us for the first time out on a course or at an event. It is about living by a set a values that places others before self, and team before individual.
Second, get a mask and start doing sprints. Sprint until you think you will be sick. Stop and recover, then do it again. Being in a mask, up and down the hills in Asheville or Wintergreen, for 12+ hours is not the most pleasant way to spend a Saturday. But our Honorees rely on you to do just that. Refer to my first point.
Q: What would you like people to know about OEW?
A: We are a Family. We work together toward one goal. We laugh, cry, fight, and understand just like any family because family is first. There is constant banter between the team members, Honorees, and OCAs before, during, and after an event. We eagerly welcome new members into our tribe.
Q: What is your favorite event and why?
A: The custom GORUCK Challenge held in Tennessee in 2016. It was a first for OEW and very challenging. It was organized by a long time OCA, Kevin Poe, who I have been friends with for years. We had an amazing group who did the event from the team members and MAT, to the OCAs and new comers to the organization. I am truly appreciative that I got to do it with my best friend. We also met Danny Stokes, the lead cadre. We must have made a good impression because he joined the team and has improved OEW ever since. It was a great example of OEW’s family atmosphere as we all descended on Kevin’s house before the event. As each person arrived it was like a family reunion. Then after the event we came together even more as we ate food, talked about the challenges of the event, fought over who got the big couch, and became closer.
Check out our OEW Spotify channel! Each Call Sign will share their own playlists of music that gets them pumped for action or helps them chill during their workday. Follow our channel and receive updates whenever new playlists are posted!
Don't have Spotify? Click here to download now and enjoy FREE music on your mobile device or desktop.
About INDOC: The application process to apply for the Masked Athlete Team, Warrior INDOC, is now an open enrollment. Pre-requisite is to have military or LEO experience with honorable discharge. E-mail: indoc@enduringwarrior.org for submission details.
bottom of page