History
Learn about our organization's history, mission, and achievements. Discover how we got started, what we have accomplished, and what we stand for. We invite you to explore our chronicles and learn more about the impact that Veterans for America First has had on our Nation's politics and communities.
Part 1: Veterans for Trump: A Grassroots Movement is Born
In the summer of 2015, the United States was gearing up for one of the most contentious presidential elections in its history. The political establishment was in turmoil, with the rise of outsider candidates and a general sense of dissatisfaction with the status quo. Among the many candidates vying for the presidency, one name stood out: Donald J. Trump.
Trump’s candidacy was unlike any other. He was a businessman, a reality TV star, and a political outsider. He spoke in a way that resonated with many Americans who were tired of politicians’ double-talk and empty promises. His message of America first, bringing back jobs, and securing the border hit a nerve with many, including a group of Veterans who would later come together to form Veterans for Trump. The seeds of the movement were planted in the hearts of Veterans who were concerned about the crisis on the southern border. Many of them had served as border patrol agents, and they knew firsthand the challenges faced by those on the front lines of securing the nation’s borders.
Trump’s outspokenness about the border crisis and his promise to secure the border resonated closely with their hearts. Closest to both of their hearts (Trump and the Veteran) was the loss of lives both inside and outside of the Veterans Affairs Department. The staggering numbers of veterans taking their own lives, with over 22 deaths per day, and the hundreds of thousands dying due to inadequate care, demanded immediate action. In 2016, a group of veterans, who would later become prominent leaders of the organizations, were successful in mobilizing fellow veterans to come out and support Donald Trump. They sensed that he was the first candidate from either party to mean it when he said he cared about Veterans and intended to fix the failed system of Healthcare being managed through the Veteran’s Administration.
During his presidential campaign, Donald Trump recognized the dire situation that many veterans were facing in terms of mental health and inadequate medical care. He connected with the “why” behind the issue of veteran suicide, understanding that the loss of so many lives on U.S. soil was not just a tragedy, but a failure of America to honor the sacrifices of those who had served their country.
Trump’s message of support for veterans resonated with many of them, and they became some of his most passionate supporters. He made a point of attending events focused on veteran issues, including the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally, and promised to overhaul the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to better serve those who had served their country. Through his outreach to veterans, Trump showed that he understood the depth of the issues facing them and that he was committed to making a real difference in their lives. This message resonated with many veterans, who saw in Trump a leader who could help bring about real change for their community. Donald Trump was the first candidate to genuinely care for the issues faced by veterans and military personnel, as opposed to just using them as props for political gain.
As the election season heated up, Veterans who supported Trump began to organize and volunteer. They rallied together alongside Trump immediately as it became clear that Trump loved Veterans and would stand with them in #VAReform. With the message of the Veteran’s plight at the forefront of every presidential debate, they came in as his honored guests. They then started to spread the word about their support for the candidate online. In 2015 under the leadership of Corey Lewandowski (the first Trump campaign manager) created the first Veterans for Trump Coalition in Virginia making Joshua Macias the Chairman.
Joshua quickly got to work in building a strong organization of Veterans who supported Trump’s candidacy. He opened a campaign office in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and began organizing rallies and events to support then-candidate Trump. In December 2015, Joshua Macias established the Veterans for Trump Coalition and started expanding it to include states like Maryland, Delaware, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
Joshua worked to create executive positions within the Coalition and established a database of volunteers to train as delegates for state conventions. He also began coordinating with national 501c3 Veteran groups to create opportunities for them to join the movement. One of Joshua Macias’s key accomplishments was his use of social media to spread the word about the Veterans for Trump movement. He was one of the first to use hashtags like #Vets4Trump and #VetsForTrump, which quickly gained traction among Veterans who supported the candidate. He aligned Tony Porta as the spokesman for Veterans for Trump and worked to create a VetsForTrump Media team focused on social media and Veterans within the movement.
Veterans for Trump, under Joshua Macias’s leadership, connected the Student Veterans of America to Trump volunteer teams and worked to oppose false statements of the media and others attacking Trump. With photographs of events, including military hashtags from years of use to pull in Veterans. His leadership and organizational skills were instrumental in building a grassroots movement of veterans who supported Donald Trump’s candidacy in the 2016 election.
In the early days, the movement was small but passionate. Veterans and patriots who supported Trump came together to share their stories, swap ideas, and brainstorm ways to get involved in the campaign. In March 2016, efforts were focused on registering Veterans as delegates for the state convention, and delegate training was provided within the volunteer database through the 2nd district. In Fayetteville with the Launch of VetsForTrump Tony Porta conducted an interview of DJT, regarding Veteran concerns as a VIP exclusive interview with Sean Hannity.
A Fox News segment on the movement went viral, leading to a surge in the VetsForTrump cause pages from 12K to 200K, surpassing Bernie Sanders’ cause page, which was currently at 100K. The Vets4Trump Media emerged, focusing on social media and veterans within the movement. Ray Reynolds joined the team as a volunteer photographer, and the Vets4Trump Twitter account was started. Support for the movement also came from notable names like Pastor Mark Burns as well as from Diamond and Silk during this time.
After the merger with the G.O.P one of the first group photos (SEE BELOW) of Veterans and patriots who came together to support Trump is a testament to the movement’s beginnings. It included Mike Kelly, Al Baldasaro, Trinna Phillips, Joshua Macias, Tony Porta, Alice Butler-Short, and Matt Miller, all of whom would play key roles in shaping the movement’s future
As the movement grew, so did it’s digital presence. Trump recognized the power of social media in spreading the message. The story of how Veterans for Trump was born is a testament to the power of grassroots movements and the enduring spirit of American patriotism.
Part 2: The Rise of a Patriotic Movement - From Grassroots to National Force
More and more supporters joined their cause, the movement grew into a powerful force for change, organizing rallies and spreading its message across the Nation. As the movement continued to rapidly expand it began to attract the attention of notable individuals who shared its values and its vision for the future of America. One of the most prominent figures to join the movement was Admiral Chuck Kubic, a highly respected military leader, and former naval officer who became the organization’s national spokesman.
RADM Charles R. Kubic (right), Commander, 1st MEF Engineer Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Headquarters Group, leads Seabees down one of the many hills of a 7-mile march near Camp Commando, Kuwait. U.S. Navy photo by U.S. Army Lt. Col. Steve Duarte (RELEASED).
Admiral Chuck Kubic is a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Navy and a former commander of the legendary SEABEES. He is also the author of the book “Bridges to Baghdad,” which tells the story of the SEABEES’ critical role in the Iraq War. In the book, Kubic outlines how the SEABEES, America’s premier expeditionary construction force, raised the bar of the “Can Do!” tradition set by their World War II forefathers during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.
During the war, Kubic and his SEABEES worked alongside the First Marine Expeditionary Force (1 MEF) in Iraq. Task organized into three regimental-sized formations under division-level command, the SEABEES maneuvered, built, and fought their way to Baghdad. Despite encountering some of the fiercest adversaries since Vietnam and one of the world’s harshest environments, the SEABEES carried out their primary missions of building bridges and roads along the attack route.
The SEABEES also conducted Civil Military Operations in the face of a cunning, often hidden enemy. In addition to building military bridges during the historic march to Baghdad, the SEABEES also worked to create cultural bridges during the subsequent reconstruction of a liberated Iraq.
As an expert in military construction and infrastructure, Admiral Kubic’s experience has been invaluable to the Veterans for America First movement. His leadership and expertise have played a crucial role in the movement’s efforts to support America’s veterans and advance the America First agenda.
Already a Trump Surrogate and a member of the National Security Council with the addition of Admiral Kubic’s leadership and expertise were invaluable in helping to shape the movement’s message and strategy. (It’s worth noting that Admiral’s company – Kubic Engineering Group played a significant role in the construction of the southern wall. Over the next four years, his company built approximately one-third of the entire wall. Veterans for Trump are grateful to have Admiral Kubic as a friend and leader who has contributed immensely to our national security.)
In addition to Admiral Kubic, the movement also gained the support of other notable individuals, such as Ambassador Quinn Nii, who became the organization’s first ambassador. Flag officers Sean Kilbane with GOP and Thomas Speciale, a former senatorial candidate also joined the movement, bringing extensive military experience and leadership skills to the cause. And in Florida, the movement gained the support of Julio Martinez, a Vietnam combat veteran and former mayor of Hialeah, who became the organization’s Florida director.
It is noteworthy to say a few things about Julio. Julio J Martinez is a former Hialeah mayor and Vietnam combat veteran who made history as the first Republican mayor in the 200-year history of the city. Under his leadership, Hialeah saw a massive increase in new police officers and a cleanup of the city, making it a stronghold of one of the largest Latino Republican populations in Dade County. Julio is a strong proponent of the America First agenda and President Trump.
Julio is also the founder and president of the largest Latino Republican club in the state of Florida, with over 400 members. The club, which was founded almost 20 years ago, operates out of a 4,000 square foot studio called American Freedom Network. The studio broadcasts patriotic messaging to the local Latino community and serves as the headquarters for the Veterans for Trump movement.
In addition to his political and grassroots activism, Julio is a boxer and is in the boxing hall of fame. He boxed in the U.S. Army while serving with the 25th Infantry Division and had 39 fights. His fighting spirit has made him a valuable addition to the Veterans for Trump team, and his grassroots mobilization efforts were instrumental in delivering victory to Trump in Miami Dade in both the 2016 and 2020 elections.
Julio was also one of the first people on the scene when Andrew Gillum was found with an overdosed male escort, which is not surprising given that he led an aggressive campaign to prevent Gillum from becoming Florida’s governor. Overall, Julio’s leadership and dedication to the America First movement and the Veterans for Trump cause make him a highly respected and influential figure in Florida politics.
Martinez was instrumental in flipping Miami-Dade red in the 2020 election. His grassroots volunteers and mobilization efforts played a crucial role in achieving this feat. As a Vietnam combat veteran and the founder and president of the largest Latino Republican club in the state, Julio had the skills and expertise to galvanize support for the America First movement and President Trump. His leadership and strategic planning helped mobilize a massive grassroots army that knocked on doors, made phone calls, and rallied voters to the polls.
Julio’s contributions to the Veterans for Trump movement have been invaluable. He helped expand the grassroots mobilization efforts tenfold, proving that he is a true Freedom Fighter in every sense of the word.
As the movement continued to expand, it began to collaborate with other national grassroots organizations that shared its values and goals. The diverse coalition included TPUSA, Bikers for Trump, Bikers for Trump – Boots on the Ground, Gays for Trump, Latinos for Trump, Women for Trump, Blacks for Trump, Muslims for Trump, and Asians for Trump. Movement formed strong relationships and worked together to promote the interests of all Americans. Together, they stood as a united front, committed to upholding the principles that make America great and ensuring a better future for all.
Joshua Macias was a key figure in the early days of the Veterans for Trump movement, particularly when it came to organizing volunteers to provide security for then-candidate Trump before the Secret Service became involved. He saw a need to protect the future president from potential harm, and he was determined to make it happen. The individuals tasked with this were often veterans themselves, and they brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the task at hand. The augmented security team provided valuable support to the campaign during a critical time. Joshua’s leadership and dedication were instrumental in ensuring that Mr. Trump was able to campaign effectively and safely.
In December 2015, Joshua Macias played a significant role in the opening of then-candidate Trump’s event in Manassas, VA, representing Veterans for Trump alongside other Virginia leaders. He assisted in articulating the Veteran plan which Trump then incorporated into every one of his public speeches. Macias’ plans for Veteran reform became a staple and a key part of Trump’s campaign from that point on.
CHECK OUT VIDEO WHERE JOSHUA OPENED FOR THE PRESIDENT
Following this event, Trump continued to bring the Veteran Team everywhere he went, demonstrating his commitment to supporting and advocating for veterans. Macias and the Veterans for Trump organization remained dedicated to promoting American values and supporting the America First agenda, working tirelessly to advance the causes they believed in.
Led by Admiral Chuck Kubic and Joshua Macias this grassroots movement quickly gained momentum. They saw the potential for real change and a return to traditional American values, and they were determined to make it happen.
At the heart of their mission was a focus on veterans’ issues and border security. These were two issues that they felt were being overlooked by the political establishment. They knew that America’s veterans had made tremendous sacrifices for their country, and they deserved better support and care. They also believed that securing our borders was essential to preserving our national security and the American way of life. Supporters from all across the country joined together to form a powerful force for change. They organized rallies and worked tirelessly to spread their message.
As the 2016 presidential election approached, the movement continued to gain momentum. Donald J. Trump emerged as a candidate who shared their values and their vision for the country. He recognized the importance of supporting our veterans and securing our borders, and he was committed to making America great again.
On November 8, 2016, the American people spoke. Donald J. Trump was elected as the 45th president of the United States. It was a historic moment, and the movement that had helped to propel him to victory was celebrated in a way that only true patriots could.
Following the inauguration of the new administration, the Veterans for Trump movement continued to develop and transform. It was recognized as a group committed to advocating American values and championing an America First policy. Members of the organization remained steadfast in their efforts to promote the issues they were passionate about, and they took great pride in being part of a movement that was effecting change.
Part 3: Veterans For America First / VFAF
In light of the 2020 election outcome, National grassroots movement that upheld America First principles beyond Trump’s presidency gained more significance. The conservative groups were left shattered and disbelieving, and the group emphasized that unity was crucial to move forward. This led to the birth of “Veterans for America First / VFAF”. Veterans for America First (VFAF) organized two trips to the Southern border wall. During these trips, Admiral Kubic showed several dozen America First political candidates, as well as dozens of veterans, portions of the wall that he and his team had built. They also saw what the “Obama” wall looked like prior to Trump’s presidency. These trips were important in demonstrating the progress that had been made on the wall and the need to continue supporting border security efforts.
During one of these trips, VFAF and Veterans for Trump worked alongside Latinos for Trump to donate meals to border patrol agents. The effort resulted in over 200 meals being delivered to those who watchfully protect our borders. This gesture of support was greatly appreciated by the border patrol agents and helped to strengthen the relationship between the agents and the communities they serve.
On the second trip, VFAF and volunteers organized and held hands from one side of the unfinished wall to the other, essentially finishing the wall with their bodies as a statement. This action demonstrated the commitment of VFAF and its volunteers to securing the border and supporting America First values.
Overall, these trips were successful in promoting VFAF’s mission of supporting America First values and promoting strong border security. Through these efforts, VFAF was able to demonstrate its commitment to supporting those who protect our borders and continue to advance the values of the America First movement.
This online community became a hub for like-minded patriots to connect, share ideas, and mobilize around issues and causes that aligned with the America First principles. However, online engagement alone was not enough to make a real impact. Organization needed to have a strong political presence and know-how, aside from community engagement. This realization led to collaborate and take a more active role in politics and empowering new leaders within the organization who have the aptitude for long-term political engagement.
As a result of these discussions, a vote was held to elevate Stan Fitzgerald, the former political director, to the position of president of the organization. Stan, a former police detective proved to be a reliable and capable asset. Stan worked to advance the organization in political engagement.
Stan led the organization to new heights, building a powerful and effective grassroots movement that embodied the America First principles.
Part 6: Empowering New Leaders and Advancing on Two Fronts
Stan Fitzgerald’s effectiveness in the political field can be attributed to his extensive background and experience in law enforcement and business. As a retired police detective, he developed strong leadership skills, an understanding of the legal system, and the ability to analyze complex situations. He also has experience running his own business, which has given him valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities that entrepreneurs face.
Additionally, Stan is a persuasive communicator and an effective organizer. He has used these skills to build coalitions and mobilize support for the causes he believes in. For example, as President of Veterans for America First, he organized Trump bus tours and helped to streamline the process of endorsing candidates and individuals to become ambassadors for the movement. His efforts played a significant role in energizing supporters and spreading the message of the movement across the country.
Stan’s dedication to the movement earned him personal invitations to Bedminster and Mar-a-Lago to meet with Trump. In June 2021, Trump personally thanked Stan and Donna for their political efforts during remarks he made at a diner honoring Jody Hice. This recognition from the former president demonstrates the significant impact that Stan has had on the America First movement.
Furthermore, on November 29th, 2022, Trump posted the VFAF endorsement for his presidency on his Truth Social account. This accomplishment is a testament to Stan’s leadership and influence within the movement, as he played a significant role in making this happen.
Moreover, Stan’s leadership style is characterized by inclusiveness and collaboration. He works closely with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and he values their input and ideas. This approach has helped him to build strong relationships and partnerships with individuals and organizations across the political spectrum.
One of his notable contributions to the movement was his work in organizing Trump bus tours. During these tours, Stan traveled to various places to spread the message of the movement and energize its supporters. He was able to effectively communicate the organization’s goals and vision to a diverse range of audiences, including veterans, business owners, and supporters of President Donald Trump. His efforts helped to increase visibility and raise awareness of the VFAF, which in turn helped to attract new members and supporters.
In addition to his work on the bus tours, Stan was also instrumental in endorsing candidates and individuals to become ambassadors for the movement. He proved effective in identifying and empowering new leaders in the movement, and his efforts were successful in raising up new leaders to promote the movement’s values.
The long-ago-conceived vision of establishing state chapters for the VFAF became a reality, leading to the creation of the first three state chapters in Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.This was a significant achievement as it allowed the movement to have a more prominent impact in those states and gave local activists the opportunity to organize and take action.
Stan’s dedication to election integrity was a significant aspect in the America First movement. He hosted a fundraising event in September 2022 in South Carolina for three Secretary of State candidates, Mark Finchem, Jim Marchant, and Kristina Karomo, with the goal of supporting national election integrity efforts.
Stan had previously taken part in an investigation of suspected fake ballots being transported from Arizona to Georgia, showing his commitment to ensuring fair and transparent elections. He also ran an election integrity forum in Georgia with Garland Favorito, YG Nyghtstorm, and Jeff Zink, the AZ Audit Manager. Additionally, he sent a public letter on behalf of VFAF to the Georgia Secretary of State with concerns on the reported flipped election results in the 2022 GA Primary.
As a leader in the movement, Stan was involved in various operations that cannot be discussed. He worked with Mike Daugherty on challenging the 2020 Georgia Senate runoff results, taking on Perkins Coie. Stan Fitzgerald also hosted numerous America First fundraising efforts and was listed as host for Tudor Dixon at a Georgia event.
It is worth mentioning that Stan Fitzgerald’s remarkable contributions to the America First movement are greatly complemented by his spouse, Donna Fitzgerald. Together, they have played a vital role in organizing events, endorsing candidates, and promoting the movement’s values.
Donna Fitzgerald’s support for the movement has been evident in her unwavering commitment to its goals. Her involvement in the VFAF has been invaluable in helping to advance the organization’s mission of promoting America First policies. As a team, the Fitzgeralds have demonstrated strong leadership skills, an unwavering dedication to election integrity, and a commitment to inclusiveness and collaboration.
As a team, the Fitzgeralds have hosted numerous America First fundraising efforts and have been listed as hosts for Tudor Dixon at a Georgia event. Their contributions to the movement have been invaluable, and their dedication to promoting America First policies has been unwavering.T
Part 7: What the Future Holds: Prospects and Possibilities
The successful realization of Veterans for America First’s (VFAF) vision, as outlined by Admiral Kubic, and Joshua Macias, can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of all leaders, with Stan Fitzgerald now being a permanent member of the VFAF and serving as it’s President. Today, VFAF – Veterans for Trump boasts a formidable team with promising prospects for the future. Their unwavering commitment to promoting the America First movement’s values and principles, coupled with their strong team dynamics, positions VFAF to continue making positive impacts in both grassroots activism and the political sphere.
The organization’s dedication to national security, election integrity, and support for America’s veterans and active-duty military members remains a top priority. The VFAF team is also actively working to identify and endorse candidates who align with the organization’s values, ensuring that the America First movement continues to gain momentum and support across the country.
Looking ahead, it seems that Veterans for America First – Veterans for Trump is confident in its ability to help re-elect Donald Trump. The organization’s support for the former President, coupled with its commitment to advancing the America First movement, suggests that it will be a formidable force in the 2024 election and beyond.
Overall, the prognosis for Veterans for America First – Veterans for Trump is positive. The organization has a strong leadership team in place, a clear vision for the future, and a proven track record of success. As it continues to grow and expand its reach, it will no doubt play a major role in shaping the political landscape and advancing the values of the America First movement.