H.O.O.A.H. Wisconsin

William Kocken

Vice President

I was born in March of 1984 in Green Bay, WI where I have spent the vast majority of my life. I am a graduate of West De Pere High School.  Growing up I was active in the Boy Scouts of America having reached the rank of eagle scout. I was a two sport athlete through high school in both soccer and wrestling to include lettering all four years and being the team captain of the wrestling team my senior year.

I enlisted into the Army National Guard on March 28, 2002, at the age of 18 while I was in my junior year of high school. I went on my 1st Deployment in August 2005 for 12 months to Iraq. During that deployment I earned the Combat Infantryman Badge.  That badge was received because of direct contact with the enemy through IED and small arms ambush resulting in the loss of two Airmen. On that deployment we conducted combat patrols and logistical convoy security.

When we were put on alert for our second deployment I was selected over my peers to come onto orders as a full-time National Guardsman before the deployment to help bring up the unit’s readiness level and prepare them for the upcoming mission.  Shortly before the deployment in 2009 I was hired as an AGR (Active Guard Reserve) Service Member. We deployed in April 2009 for 10 months again to Iraq. During that deployment we conducted primarily PSD operations.

I deployed for a third time to Afghanistan in 2019 as the Platoon Sergeant for the Quick Reaction Force for all of TAAC-EAST.  This operation included supporting troops in enemy contact, downed aircraft recovery, and any other immediate needs in the region. Half way through this deployment I was moved into the Tactical Operations Center in Tarin Kowt where I tracked the area battle field, managed base defenses, supported Special Forces operations in the area, and controlled numerous air assets on a daily basis.

Between these deployments I have been working as an AGR. I attended the Army’s Ranger School under class 02-13 and went straight through earning my Ranger Tab on January 25, 2013.  I have also earned the Army Parachutist Badge, Pathfinder Badge, and Expert Infantryman’s Badge. I was selected to represent the Army National Guard at the 2014 Best Ranger Competition where my partner and I placed 19th overall. I am currently a Sergeant First Class working out of Waupun, WI as the Readiness NCO and Platoon Sergeant for A Co 2-127th IN.

I have been a part of numerous charity events to help raise money for an assortment of organizations. I co-founded 4th HOOAH WI in 2013 and sat in the roles of president and vice president of the veterans organization. 4th HOOAH WI is a chapter of a national organization that has helped thousands of veterans across Wisconsin through a multitude of programs and services. I am currently the lead organizer for the annual Veterans Suicide Awareness March

In 2018 I completed my Business Admin Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay.

I have competed in numerous physical competitions to include setting the Guinness World Record for fastest marathon with a 100lbs pack in 2018. I have also completed there Wisconsin Ironman races, one of which was while carrying a 40lbs ruck for the marathon portion to raise awareness. I led the team that won the 2019 Bataan Memorial Death March National Guard Heavy Division. I also earned the opportunity to compete at the World’s Toughest Mudder in 2011, where I was able to complete three laps on the course.

I have received the Order of Saint Maurice, Thomas E Wortham IV Achievement Award, Green Bay Packers Community Quarterback Award, and Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Future 15 Award. Through my military career I have also received many other awards and recognition.

Scott Conklin

Treasurer

My name is Scott Conklin, a current Wisconsin resident, and former long-time resident of Michigan. I was born in Jackson MI in 1981, and spent time between Michigan and Alaska until I was 6 years old and moved full time to Marquette, MI. I graduated high school in 1999 as a captain and 3-time State champion in Track and Cross Country, as well as participating in basketball, hockey, swimming, and diving. I went on college scholarships to the University of Sioux Falls in South Dakota, only to find out that I didn’t have the personal discipline to work hard in school, so I made the decision to move into the military after my first semester. In December of 1999 I joined the US Airforce and spent the next 6 years as an Aircraft Electrical/Environmental Specialist and 2 years with the Honor Guard. Much of my time was spent in Louisiana, with a few small stints overseas for deployments. From Active Duty I moved to the Reserves and after a brief period went Inactive Ready Reserve and moved back home to Michigan.

In 2008 I made a move from Michigan to Wisconsin and have lived here ever since. In 2010, I got the itch to get back to my military roots and joined into the Wisconsin Army National Guard as an 11B Infantryman. Since that time, I have served with 2-127 Bravo Company twice, Alpha, and currently with Headquarters Recon Platoon. During my military career, I have won various awards and distinguishments, served in many leadership roles, and look forward to staying in the NG until I am kicked out for old age. For my civilian careers, I have been in managerial roles since coming off of Active Duty. I have worked with great Wisconsin based companies such as American TV & Appliance, Schneider National, and now currently Dedicated Systems. During that time, I also graduated with a bachelors degree in Business Management, and am currently working on going back to school with the University of Michigan to earn a degree in Applied Sciences.

I look forward to supporting 4th H.O.O.A.H. in every capacity that I can. I have participated in many of the events since their inception a few years ago and am excited for all the opportunities to volunteer in the future.

Chelsea Kocken

SECRETARY

My name is Chelsea Kocken. I was born and raised in Green Bay, WI. I have been involved with 4th H.O.O.A.H WI since 2014 when I met my now husband, Will Kocken. With Will being a co-founder of the organization and VP when we met, I was pretty involved from the beginning. I quickly fell in love with the organization and everything it stands for. My absolute favorite thing about H.O.O.A.H is the community that it creates.

I have been working in event management since early 2015, organizing some of the community’s largest public gatherings. I truly enjoy engaging with the community and creating a product that brings people together to experience something new and creative.

Will and I were married in August 2017 and welcomed our daughter, Josie in February 2019. We enjoy being outside together, spending time with family and being an active part of our community.

I bring experience and passion for the organization as a board member and hope that I can help to make an even greater positive impact on our Veteran community.

Hattie Liebman

Board Member

My name is Hattie Liebman and I was born and raised in Green Bay, WI.  Both of my parents worked full time jobs and fortunately, daycare was with my grandmothers. I grew up on a dead-end road in a neighborhood with lots of other kids and outdoor activities were our favorite such as, street hockey, basketball, football, swimming in the neighbor’s pool, kick the can, etc. My brother and I had a wonderful childhood. We lived in Green Bay till about 8th grade then moved to Suamico. I participated in high school swimming, cheer leading, track and the Octagon Club where you accumulated volunteer hours.

After high school I went to college, Lakeland my first year then transferred to Oshkosh where I obtained my associates degree. From there I transferred to UWGB where I earned my bachelors double majoring in Human Development and Integrative Leadership Studies. During this time I worked at Bay View Middle School as a noon supervisor, odd and end jobs in the office, and coached 7th Grade volleyball and Spirit Team. Currently, I work at Arndt’s Delivery Service, a business my family has owned for approximately seventy years.

In my free time I love to travel. My top two favorite vacations are: two weeks living with a native Costa Rican family; it was awesome learning their heritage and culture. I’ve been to the Cayman Islands twice and will go again someday; so many interesting things to do and experience. Volleyball is my favorite sport and I’ve played every Wednesday for the past 10 years. In the summer I enjoy walking; usually 5 days a week and 10 miles each day. As a Green Bay native I’m a huge Packer fan and enjoy tailgating and attending warm weather games. I also love volunteering for my favorite non-profit 4thH.O.O.A.H. WI.

I became involved in 4th H.O.O.A.H. WI when my buddy, Will, decided to walk 22 miles. I was unable to assist that first year due to short notice. I’ve been the volunteer coordinator since 2013. At the time I was seeking my niche within various volunteer opportunities and this one was perfect. I’m passionate about it as I have several veterans in my family and know even more within the community. I’ll forever be grateful to Will for inviting me to be a part of this remarkable team. I look forward to many more years with 4th H.O.O.A.H. and continuing to serve the veterans in Wisconsin.

Jesse Metko

Board Member

I was born and raised in Kimberly, Wisconsin.  After high school, I went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering and Master’s in General Engineering from UW Platteville.  After college, I got a job in the construction industry which brought me to various places around the country including Chicago, Washington, DC and Houston, TX.

After almost 10 years of moving around the country, my wife, Alexis and I decided to move back to Wisconsin to start a family.  We have two boys (Will and Sam), and I am now an owner at Current Electrical Services in De Pere.

I joined the Army in 2003 while still in college.  I spent 10 years on the enlisted side before earning my commission, and am still serving in the Engineering branch of the US Army Reserves I have been on three deployments which included two tours in Afghanistan and a tour in Syria.

When I’m not working or chasing my boys around, I really enjoy being outdoors. I love to go hiking, hunting and fishing.  I also enjoy running, strength training and rucking.

I was first introduced to 4th H.O.O.A.H by Kyle Massa but didn’t get involved until the ruck march of 2019.  The Army has had such a positive impact on my life. I have made so many close friends through the military that they are like family to me. Being a part of 4th H.O.O.A.H gives me an opportunity to give back to the military community that I care so much about.

Jeremy Van Beek

Board Member

Hi my name is Jeremy Van Beek. I was born in July of 1986. I was raised in Little Chute, WI, where I spent the majority of my childhood until I moved to Kaukauna WI where I attended High School. I was a three sport athlete playing football, wrestling, powerlifting and baseball. My military career lasted from 2005-2012. My first deployment was with the 101st Airborne in 2007-2008. It was an 11 month deployment where I was awarded the CIB with actions that came from direct combat with enemy combatants and received other various awards with my time spent overseas. In 2009, I was deployed again to only be sent back due to an injury that had occurred from my previous deployment. Upon my medical separation from the military, I struggled a lot with trying to find myself and who I was. I was then introduced to a program called PAWWS Paws Assisting Wounded Warriors. That is where I was paired with my Service Dog “Frago”. After our time spent training I began to see how much the dog had helped me. I wanted to be able to give back to other Veterans and decided to create Got Your Six K9’s. After starting the non-profit I attended The Tom Rose School For dogs trainers and Tarheel Canine School for Dog Trainers earning my Master Trainer Certification. I am the head K-9 Trainer for the City of Green Bay Police department and the Village of Ashwaubenon K-9 unit. I run a for profit dog training business in Pulaski WI, where I breed, raise and train Police/Military K9’s, pet dogs and also service dogs for civilians.
I was connected with 4th Hooah because Will and I served together and had always stayed in contact after my time in the military. I was then asked to see if I wanted to join the ranks of 4th Hooah because they believed in my vision of Got Your Six K9’s and what we stood for. It has been amazing teaming up with them and being able to continue to serve my community.
In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends and family at our cottage along with hunting and fishing.

William Kocken

Ruck March Lead

I was born in March of 1984 in Green Bay, WI where I have spent the vast majority of my life. I am a graduate of West De Pere High School.  Growing up I was active in the Boy Scouts of America having reached the rank of eagle scout. I was a two sport athlete through high school in both soccer and wrestling to include lettering all four years and being the team captain of the wrestling team my senior year.

I enlisted into the Army National Guard on March 28, 2002, at the age of 18 while I was in my junior year of high school. I went on my 1st Deployment in August 2005 for 12 months to Iraq. During that deployment I earned the Combat Infantryman Badge.  That badge was received because of direct contact with the enemy through IED and small arms ambush resulting in the loss of two Airmen. On that deployment we conducted combat patrols and logistical convoy security.

When we were put on alert for our second deployment I was selected over my peers to come onto orders as a full-time National Guardsman before the deployment to help bring up the unit’s readiness level and prepare them for the upcoming mission.  Shortly before the deployment in 2009 I was hired as an AGR (Active Guard Reserve) Service Member. We deployed in April 2009 for 10 months again to Iraq. During that deployment we conducted primarily PSD operations.

I deployed for a third time to Afghanistan in 2019 as the Platoon Sergeant for the Quick Reaction Force for all of TAAC-EAST.  This operation included supporting troops in enemy contact, downed aircraft recovery, and any other immediate needs in the region. Half way through this deployment I was moved into the Tactical Operations Center in Tarin Kowt where I tracked the area battle field, managed base defenses, supported Special Forces operations in the area, and controlled numerous air assets on a daily basis.

Between these deployments I have been working as an AGR. I attended the Army’s Ranger School under class 02-13 and went straight through earning my Ranger Tab on January 25, 2013.  I have also earned the Army Parachutist Badge, Pathfinder Badge, and Expert Infantryman’s Badge. I was selected to represent the Army National Guard at the 2014 Best Ranger Competition where my partner and I placed 19th overall. I am currently a Sergeant First Class working out of Waupun, WI as the Readiness NCO and Platoon Sergeant for A Co 2-127th IN.

I have been a part of numerous charity events to help raise money for an assortment of organizations. I co-founded 4th HOOAH WI in 2013 and sat in the roles of president and vice president of the veterans organization. 4th HOOAH WI is a chapter of a national organization that has helped thousands of veterans across Wisconsin through a multitude of programs and services. I am currently the lead organizer for the annual Veterans Suicide Awareness March

In 2018 I completed my Business Admin Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay.

I have competed in numerous physical competitions to include setting the Guinness World Record for fastest marathon with a 100lbs pack in 2018. I have also completed there Wisconsin Ironman races, one of which was while carrying a 40lbs ruck for the marathon portion to raise awareness. I led the team that won the 2019 Bataan Memorial Death March National Guard Heavy Division. I also earned the opportunity to compete at the World’s Toughest Mudder in 2011, where I was able to complete three laps on the course.

I have received the Order of Saint Maurice, Thomas E Wortham IV Achievement Award, Green Bay Packers Community Quarterback Award, and Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Future 15 Award. Through my military career I have also received many other awards and recognition.

Tammy Hardwick

Ruck March Lead

My name is Tammy Hardwick I am the chapter President of 4th HOOAH WI.

I come from a family who has served in every Branch of the Military from my father who was in the Merchant Marines, to brothers, sister-in-laws, brother-in laws, nieces, nephews so I guess this is my way of giving back since I myself did not serve in the Military.   One of my favorite quotes is “Everybody Can Be Great Because Everybody Can Serve” by Martin Luther King Jr.

I had worked with a small scholarship Non- Profit my family started after losing my brother in a car accident, he served as an MP in the Air Force.  After that I knew that volunteer work gave me more than I would ever give to others so I was hooked.    Since my son is now a growing young man it was important for me to find a charity we could both be involved with and something that would honor our family.  I want him to grow up and know of the true sacrifice our service men and woman pay for our Freedoms, so at our events I encourage him talk to these people learn their stories.  At many of our events it is living history we have right in front of us.  How awesome is that!!!

I had found HOOAH on the Green Bay Volunteer page and on May 2015 showed up to my first event, the push up contest in front of the Shopko Hall.  I have been honored to be a part of many events after that and to be taking on more of a planning and fundraising efforts for this charity because as Nick Gries had stated in a meeting that has always stuck with me “We do this work because it’s the right thing to do.”

I will do my best to serve with grace to honor my family and honor this organization because the work we do and the people we do it for deserve that from me.

Steve Westphal

Operation Tip-up Leader