Meet Our Team
Dedicated Leaders Committed to Serving Veterans and Building Stronger Communities
William (Bill) Whetsel
President
Bill Whetsel, born and raised in Greensburg, PA, is a U.S. Air Force veteran who served as an EOD technician. Following his service, he pursued a 13-year career with Trans World Airlines and later played a pivotal role in forming the Transportation Security Administration after 9/11, where he helped transition U.S. airports to federal security. After retiring as a TSA security supervisor, Bill’s passion for helping fellow veterans led him to establish the Rumshock Veterans Foundation in 2019. Inspired by a family legacy of military service and a lifelong commitment to helping others, Bill is dedicated to supporting veterans in times of need.
Peter Lyons Hall
Vice President
Peter Lyons Hall is a digital marketing professional dedicated to helping businesses and communities grow through strategic marketing, digital content management, and website development. He has volunteered extensively for organizations and events such as The Warwick Farmers’ Market, The Summer Arts Festival, and The Children’s Book Festival, among others. Notably, Peter designed the document instrumental in the Town of Warwick’s purchase of the Mid-Orange Correctional Facility.
He has also contributed to branding and website development for organizations like the Warwick Historical Society and the Vernon Chamber of Commerce. A graduate of Marquette University with an MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University, Peter has shared his expertise as a teacher of entrepreneurial marketing at Orange-Ulster BOCES.
Roxanne Lopilato
Treasurer
Roxanne Lopilato is an accomplished Kitchen and Bath Designer with over 20 years of experience managing multiple branches for a Plumbing and Heating Supply Company. A dedicated leader and team player, Roxanne brings creativity, persistence, and a commitment to achieving results.
Her passion for nonprofit work began in her childhood as a member of the Ladies Auxiliary in Park Slope, Brooklyn, alongside her aunt. Since then, she has been actively involved in her community, serving on the "Save the Lake" committee, as a Board Member at Grace Lutheran Church, and as President and Secretary of her homeowners association.
Roxanne finds joy in giving back, driven by the belief that the support and mentorship she’s received can be paid forward to help others during their time of need.
Position Open
Secretary
We’re currently seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as Secretary. This vital role involves maintaining meeting minutes, managing records, and supporting the Board in its mission to serve veterans and their families.
If you’re passionate about giving back to the community and want to make a meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you. Learn more about this opportunity by reaching out to us today!
John “Jack” Laroe
Trustee
John “Jack” Laroe served in the Peace Corps from 1975 to 1976, working with the Forest Products Research Institute in Ghana, West Africa. During his time there, he traveled extensively, collaborating with sawmills to address operational challenges related to outdated equipment and foreign exchange issues caused by political instability.
Though his service was cut short due to illness, Jack gained invaluable insights into Ghanaian culture and a deep appreciation for cross-cultural exchange, which remains a cornerstone of his life experience.
Manolin “Manny” Tirado
Trustee
Manolin “Manny” Tirado is a U.S. Army Reserve and New York National Guard veteran who served from 1981 to 1989. With over 35 years of public administration experience, he retired as a Principal Transportation Planner at NYC Transit in 2021. During his tenure, Manny founded and chaired the NYC Transit Veterans Resource Group, an official MTA affinity group for veterans.
Manny holds a B.A. in History-Sociology from Columbia University and an M.A. in Political Science from Brooklyn College. In addition to his career, he taught political science as an adjunct lecturer for 17 years at Brooklyn College and Metropolitan College of New York.
Since 2007, Manny has lived in Greenwood Lake, NY, with his wife, Christine Rickoff-Tirado. He served on the Greenwood Lake Planning Board from 2018 to 2023. In his free time, Manny enjoys playing the clarinet, boating, and swimming.
Be the Change You Want to See
Join Our Team of Dedicated Volunteers
Your time and skills can make a lasting difference in the lives of veterans and their families. Whether it’s helping at events, supporting our programs, or mentoring, your contribution can change lives. Fill out the form to become part of our mission and help us create a stronger, more compassionate community.
Still have questions?
Visit our FAQ page for quick answers, or reach out to us directly. We’re here to help and would love to hear from you.
