Name:  Hillary West

Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Orlando, FL but spent most of my childhood moving around Florida for my father’s job.

What’s a short story around the biggest transition you’ve faced in life?
The biggest transition we have faced occurred when my husband transferred into the NSW community. After just 2 months in the community, and 10 days into his first deployment, our youngest daughter died after a tragic accident. Even though we were a new family to both the command as well as the NSW community, we were surrounded with love, resources, and so much compassion. I knew then that I would always want to give back to the people and community that gave so much to us. I found so many volunteer opportunities over the next 12 years and leaned into serving others as much as possible. This step into the THF family just continues giving back to a community that embraced us fully at our lowest moments.

What’s the one piece of advice you’d give a younger you?
I would tell my younger self to slow down and appreciate all that you get to experience. Don’t be so quick to move onto the next big thing. Each experience will shape you and create the story you tell.

Your Personal Why?
To serve with compassion and humility, so I can help those around me achieve their highest goals.

How does your Why drive you to be a part of the THF Ecosystem?
As a spouse of a retired service member, I learned very early on that supporting my husband and his mission was the key to a happy and successful military life. Volunteer opportunities arose and I jumped at the chance to give back to those serving alongside my husband. When he was preparing for retirement, The Honor Foundation became an integral part of his transition and created a smooth shift for our family. Now, as part of the THF team, I can continue to give back to the community that gave so much to us. Navigating this transition is hard. And sharing my knowledge and experience can only enrich those I serve, giving them confidence and peace to move forward smoothly

Military Connection or why do you respect Special Operators?
My husband retired in 2018 from the Navy – we have now been married for over 25 years. Our military community, and especially the Special Warfare community, supported us so unconditionally during some of the lowest moments of our lives. Since then, my mission has been to be involved and support the community in every way possible.

Favorite THF Value, and why?
My favorite value is Exemplify Trust. Trust is the basis for every relationship and let’s face it- life is a string of relationships. Without it- the job, the relationship, the experience falls flat. When trust is established, there is no limit to how far you can go. It all starts with trust.

Area/Industry of expertise:
I have certainly had my fair share of experiences, from a pharmacy technician while working through college, to a photographer while raising our children. All of these different experiences have some of the same needed qualities- compassion, organization, problem- solving and enriching relationships and connections.

Contact Hillary directly at hillary.west@honor.org.