In celebration of Independence Day, ThinkAdvisor presented the 13th annual "Advisors Who Serve(d)" compilation, featuring veterans' experiences in the advisory world, shared in their own words. This collection highlights a diverse group of financial advisors and industry professionals who have served in the military.

Paul D. Babaz, Managing Director-Investments, Oppenheimer & Co.

Branch: U.S. Army
Rank: Specialist
Service Dates: 1989-1996
Role: UH1 Crewchief (Medvac)
Memorable Story: During a deployment, Paul visited a school for orphans and gave a Hershey bar to a little girl who kept coming back for more. This experience remains a poignant memory, reflecting his wish to have done more for the children.

David Brown, Investment Advisor & Founder, Magellan Wealth Advisors

Branch: U.S. Air Force Reserve and active duty
Rank: Airman Basic/Major and Navigator
Service Dates: 1979–2008
Role: Pilot, navigator on C-130s
Memorable Story: On his first combat mission into Iraq, David transported exhausted Navy SEALs during a secret mission. He later learned they were part of the operation to rescue POW Jessica Lynch, making the mission deeply rewarding.

Gary J. Curry, Financial Advisor, Raymond James & Associates

Branch: U.S. Marine Corps
Rank: Recruit/Lance Corporal
Service Dates: 2001-2005
Role: Communications, Field Radio Officer
Memorable Story: On Day 2 of basic training, Gary experienced his first "thrashing" after failing to secure his canteen. This intense physical correction marked the true beginning of Marine Corps boot camp for him.

Jim Friddell, Financial Planner, The Opus Group, part of Prudential Advisors

Branch: U.S. Marine Corps
Rank: Captain
Service Dates: 1997–2004
Role: Infantry officer, platoon commander, among other positions
Memorable Story: During the 55th anniversary of a significant battle in the Pacific, Jim's unit attended a ceremony and met battle survivors. This emotional experience deepened his appreciation for the sacrifices of past Marines.

Nick Jahn, Retirement Plan Consultant, SageView Advisory Group

Branch: U.S. Air Force
Rank: Major  Dates: 1994–2008
Role: Civil engineer, pilot
Memorable Story: Nick met his best friend, now his wife Ashley, while serving in the Air Force, highlighting the personal connections forged during his military service.

Jeff Kitchen, Financial Advisor, Principal, Edward Jones

Branch: U.S. Navy
Rank: Midshipman/Lieutenant
Service Dates: 1988-1998
Role: Special Operations Officer, diver, explosive ordnance disposal
Memorable Story: Jeff emphasizes the importance of trust and discipline learned in the Navy, which he applies to build client relationships in his financial advisory career.

Jerry Albert Koebel, Financial Professional, Berthel Fisher, and Company

Branch: U.S. Navy
Rank: Seaman/Lieutenant Commander
Service Dates: 1963–1993
Role: Navigator on nuclear submarines
Memorable Story: At 17, Jerry found himself trapped in a freezer for two hours while on a submarine, an experience that remains the scariest moment of his life.

Adrian Montecinos, Financial Advisor, Wells Fargo Advisors

Branch: U.S. Navy
Rank: Lieutenant
Service Dates: 2014–2019
Role: Nuclear Submarine Officer
Memorable Story: Adrian's time on submarines taught him to appreciate everyday comforts and strengthened his resilience, valuable traits for both military and civilian life.

William B. Mullin, Senior Vice President, Wealth Enhancement Group

Branch: U.S. Army Corp of Engineers
Rank: Lieutenant/Captain
Service Dates: 1990–1998
Role: Combat engineer
Memorable Story: A lesson on leadership from his platoon sergeant during the Gulf War taught William the importance of putting his team before himself.

Sean Michael Pearson, Financial Advisor, Certified Military Financial Advisor, Ameriprise Financial

Branch: U.S. Pennsylvania Air National Guard
Rank: Airman First Class/Major
Service Dates: 1997-present
Role: Aircraft weapons system craftsman, chief of public affairs
Memorable Story: Sean's diverse military experiences include supporting disaster relief and election security efforts, showcasing the National Guard's vital role at home and abroad.

Roman F. Reed, Senior Director-Investments, Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.

Branch: U.S. Army Infantry
Rank: 2nd Lieutenant/1st Lieutenant
Service Dates: 1985–1993
Role: Army Reserves
Memorable Story: Training alongside newly commissioned officers and allied nations during the Infantry Officer Basic Course fostered Roman's deep appreciation for the United States.

Somer Taylor, Associate Wealth Advisor, Alia Wealth Partners

Branch: U.S. Army
Rank: Private/Sergeant
Service Dates: 2007–2012
Role: Air Traffic Control Specialist
Memorable Story: Somer cherishes the lifelong friendships and countless memories made during her service and is grateful for the shared experiences with fellow soldiers.

We join ThinkAdvisor in thanking those financial advisors who served their country.

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