About Us
Stefan Hespeler
Co-Founder, Operation VEST
Stefan has been a veteran advocate since April 2, 2016, when he launched a 22 push-up campaign to raise awareness about veteran suicide. What started with push-ups has since grown into a mission that has helped countless veterans. Since that time, over 72,000 veterans have been lost to suicide—a staggering crisis reflecting more than 250,000 annual attempts (CDC). This reality drove him to take action, culminating in the founding of Operation VEST in 2020 to prevent veteran suicide by connecting struggling veterans with local resources.
As a hands-on leader, Stefan organizes fundraising efforts, builds partnerships, and ensures that resources reach those in need. Operation VEST has raised awareness and directly provided food and basic necessities to veterans in need. Additionally, Stefan serves on the steering committee for the Suffolk County Veterans Run Series, further deepening his commitment to the veteran community. His efforts have earned congressional, state, and local recognition for advancing the cause.
For Stefan, this mission is personal. His twin brother, Justin, a Marine Corps veteran and Presidential Medal of Valor recipient, inspires his dedication to supporting those who have served. Stefan and his wife, Jenny Mortenson Hespeler, co-lead Operation VEST, driven by purpose and family.
Beyond his nonprofit work, Stefan is a General Manager at a Fortune 500 company, where he leads with a focus on efficiency, engagement, and community impact. His work fosters resilience and hope, honoring veterans’ sacrifices through meaningful, community-driven initiatives.
Jenny Hespeler
Co-Founder, Operation VEST
In her role as co-founder, Jenny leads with passion, advocacy, and a deep commitment to veteran support.
Driven by empathy, she plays a pivotal role in building relationships, developing impactful programs, and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health.
Her dedication has earned her widespread recognition, including being named a Woman of Distinction by the state of New York and receiving numerous proclamations and citations from local officials for her service. But for Jenny, success isn’t measured in accolades—it’s in every conversation, every life touched, every friendship formed, and every veteran who finds hope through their work.
Jenny has worn many hats throughout her career, including being a painting contractor.
Jenny grew up in Lindenhurst, NY, with her parents and 2 older brothers.
As a resident of the Village of Brightwaters since 2013, Jenny has also volunteered in her local community by supporting various events such as the Brightwaters Pumpkin Run and Ragamuffin parade and even used her painting skills to assist in the renovation of Wohseepee Park Cabin.
Being an animal lover, Jenny is “Fur Mom” to her 3 dogs, Finn, Coral and Tucker (a Paws of War alum currently training to be a service dog).
Balancing her nonprofit work with family and career commitments, she remains steadfast in her mission to expand Operation VEST’s reach and impact. Through her leadership, she continues to build a community where veterans feel supported, empowered, and never left behind.
Darren M. Jackson
Board Member, Operation VEST
Darren M. Jackson brings a distinguished 41-year military career to his role as a veteran engagement advocate with Operation VEST. Beginning in 1984, he served as a U.S. Marine Corps Gulf War veteran until 1997, then transitioned to the New York Air National Guard, where he remains active. His service includes four deployments since 2009 and two active-duty tours, totaling eight years and six months of active service.
Darren’s dedication has earned him numerous accolades, including the National Defense Medal with Bronze Star, Air Force Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Achievement Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal with two Bronze Stars, and the Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Frame and three Oak Leaf Clusters.
With deep roots in the veteran community, Darren is committed to supporting Operation VEST’s mission to prevent veteran suicide by connecting struggling veterans with vital resources. His extensive service and leadership strengthen the organization’s efforts to foster resilience and hope.
Leslie E. Owen
Board Member, Operation VEST
Leslie E. Owen has been a Brightwaters, NY resident since 1972, originally hailing from New Jersey. She moved to New York in 1970 after marrying Harold D. Owen, a U.S. Navy veteran from Massapequa. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Rutgers University and a Master of Science in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from Adelphi University, Leslie brings decades of expertise to her work.
For over 40 years, Leslie served as a clinical therapist at The Community House program at Glen Cove Hospital and as a nurse in psychiatric units at South Shore University Hospital and Glen Cove Hospital’s inpatient behavioral health unit. She has also maintained a private practice, treating patients, including many veterans and their families. Her career extends to supervisory consulting for substance abuse treatment programs and lecturing on alcohol and substance abuse care.
Leslie’s connection to the military is deep-rooted: Her husband, three siblings, and three brothers-in-law are veterans of the U.S. Navy, Army, and Coast Guard. Her godfather was wounded in Korea at Pork Chop Hill, and her father-in-law served as a WWII Marine in the Pacific. This heritage fuels her unique understanding of veterans’ needs.
A dedicated volunteer with Operation VEST since its founding in 2020, Leslie supports its mission to prevent veteran suicide through resource connection and community care.