Page 9 - 2025 Heroes Gala Event Program - Smaller

2025 Hero Award Recipients
ARMED FORCES HERO AWARD
This category includes active-duty military and veterans. Nominees have demonstrated exceptional courage, self- sacrifice, extraordinary compassion, or life-saving actions that go above and beyond the call of duty.
Commander Jim Espinoza, VFW Post 4266 Parker
A proud Gulf War Marine veteran, Jim Espinoza serves as the dedicated commander of VFW Post 4266 in Parker. Under his leadership, the Post has become a thriving hub of service, camaraderie and community impact. When Jim stepped into the role, the post was facing significant challenges, including low membership and financial struggles.
Through his vision, persistence and heart for veterans, the Post has grown an impressive 130% year-over-year, bringing in new energy, resources and purpose.
Jim leads by example, ensuring the Post fulfills its mission of supporting veterans, their families and the wider community. Under his guidance, members assist fellow veterans and widowers with landscaping projects, ensuring that those who served are cared for with dignity and respect. They volunteer at local dog parks, organize food drives, and show up wherever a helping hand is needed.
“It is a team effort, and that is something the military teaches you–– that teamwork is everything, “ Jim shared. “When you are just one person, you can’t get anything done, but when you link arms with an entire group of us, we are unstoppable!”
Jim is very humbled by this honor and said he is grateful for everyone in his Post. “This is not just a one-person award; it’s a group award,” he said.
This Heroes Award is brought to you by: