Bringing Them Home November 2025
Issue 9 November 2025
Launching Our 5th Annual Home for the Holidays Campaign!
This November marks an exciting milestone—the launch of our 5th Annual Home for the Holidays campaign! While our mission to bring young military members home for a visit continues year-round, the holiday season holds special meaning. It’s a time when being together matters most—and your support can make that possible.
This year, we’re setting an ambitious goal to raise $35,000, allowing us to award even more Ticket Home Awards—not only during the holidays but throughout the entire year. Each award helps bridge the distance between service members and their loved ones, turning longing into laughter and homesickness into homecoming.
For many of us, the holidays are a season of warmth, joy, and connection. But for those serving far from home—especially first-time deployments—this time can be difficult. Your generosity can change that. Every donation you make in November helps reunite a military family and reminds them that their sacrifice is deeply appreciated.
Thanks to your incredible support last year, we raised over $31,000 and provided 42 Ticket Home Awards. This year, we’re determined to go even further—and with your help, we know we can.
You can contribute today by visiting our website and clicking Donate, scanning the QR code on this newsletter, or mailing a check directly to the Ben Jackson Foundation.
Together, we can make this holiday season one to remember—filled with homecomings, hugs, and heartfelt gratitude.
Thank you for helping us bring them home.
Issue 6 Table of Contents
Donor Perspective
A Donor’s Meaningful Connection with the Ben Jackson Foundation
Dear Ben Jackson Foundation Community,
I’m honored to share my family’s deep connection to the Ben Jackson Foundation and how it has touched our lives in a profoundly meaningful way. My name is Mike Roberts, and my ties to Larry and Jen Jackson go back to our days at Marquette University in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Larry and I were commissioned into the Navy in 1992—him heading to Nuclear Power School and a ship in Norfolk, while I was stationed in San Diego after my ship was built in Maine. Over time, we lost touch, but my parents kept me updated after they ran into Larry and Jen in our small hometown of New Glarus, Wisconsin, where the Jacksons settled to raise their family.
When the tragic news of their son Ben’s passing reached us, it shook our entire community. Learning that Larry and Jen were founding the Ben Jackson Foundation to honor Ben’s memory struck a chord with my family. Military service runs deep in our blood—my grandfather and his brother served in the Navy during WWII, my dad in the Air Force, and both my son and I in the Navy. The Foundation’s mission to help young enlisted service members afford trips home resonated deeply with us. We knew how costly flights, especially from overseas, can be for junior enlisted members with limited means. My sister Nicole and her late husband’s foundation contributed, my parents donated and attended local fundraisers, and I’ve supported through my company’s donation matching program and served on the selection committee.
This past May, we faced our own loss when my dad passed away after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. As we discussed how to honor his memory, the Ben Jackson Foundation felt like the perfect choice. Thanks to the generosity of Dad’s friends, family, and our own contributions, we raised enough to fund three additional travel awards, one for each month from August to October.
In August, we helped Airman Anthony from Florida, stationed in Italy, surprise his grandmother and reunite with family he hadn’t seen in over a year. In September, we supported Marine D’Angelo from Georgia, stationed at the U.S. Embassy in Geneva, Switzerland. I loved sharing with him the connection to New Glarus, “America’s Little Switzerland.” He’s eager to visit his family soon. In October, we provided a travel award to Airman Collin, also from Georgia, stationed in South Korea. I’ll never forget the call from his mom, so overwhelmed with joy she had to pull over while driving. Without the Foundation’s support, she wouldn’t have seen her son until his tour ended in three to four years. These young men embody the heart of what this Foundation does.
Our family is incredibly proud to be part of the Ben Jackson Foundation family. Its mission to help young service members make those vital trips home to their loved ones is something we hold dear. We’re so grateful to have honored my dad’s memory in this way—he would be thrilled to know he helped bring these three young men home to their families.
With gratitude,
Mike Roberts
Proud Supporter of the Ben Jackson Foundation
If you’d like to join us in supporting this meaningful mission, please visit benjacksonfoundation.org for more information on how you can get involved.
EVENTS
Raise a Glass for a Great Cause at Dirty Dog Taphaus!
Mark your calendars and join us at Dirty Dog Taphaus & Eatery on November 8th, Veterans Day weekend as we kick off another unforgettable night of fun, community, and giving back! This year’s event supports our Home for the Holidays campaign, helping bring young military members home to spend time with their loved ones during the holiday season.
Enjoy a night filled with great food, cold drinks, and fantastic live music from Marc Barnaby, all while supporting a cause that truly makes a difference. Every dollar raised helps fund Ticket Home Awards, reuniting service members with the families who miss them most.
So come on out, raise a glass, and be part of something meaningful! Together, we can turn miles apart into moments together this holiday season.
We can’t wait to see you at Dirty Dog Taphaus & Eatery—let’s make this Veterans Day weekend one to remember!
Unseen Journeys: The Lifeline of a Ticket Home for Young Military Heroes
Imagine a 19-year-old, fresh from high school, navigating the intense demands of military service. Stationed far from home—across the country or overseas—they face rigorous training, unfamiliar settings, and the weight of duty. Yet, one harsh reality overshadows the rest: the U.S. military does not cover travel costs for personal leave. For thousands of young enlistees, a trip home is a financial hurdle, with domestic round-trip flights costing $300 to $800 (international flights are usually far more), plus baggage fees, taxis, and meals, often consuming most of their under-$2,000 monthly paycheck. Many, new to managing finances and often from families unable to assist, go months or even years without seeing loved ones. This silent struggle erodes morale and deepens isolation, but the Ben Jackson Foundation is transforming lives, one ticket at a time.
These financial barriers are more than numbers—they’re an emotional burden. Holidays pass without family, birthdays are spent alone, and the comfort of home feels unreachable. One young service member shared, “I hadn’t seen my family in over a year because I couldn’t afford the plane ticket. It was tough, especially during the holidays.” For enlistees in their late teens or early twenties, adapting to military life is already challenging. Prolonged separation heightens risks of anxiety, depression, and burnout. Yet, this issue rarely makes headlines, leaving many unaware of the profound need.
A trip home is not a luxury—it’s vital preventive care. Reuniting with family provides emotional support and offers a safe space to share struggles and joys. It fosters a sense of belonging, grounding service members amid the demands of duty. Research, like studies in the Journal of Military Medicine, shows that strong family ties reduce anxiety and depression while boosting life satisfaction. These connections build resilience, helping troops recover from setbacks and stay focused. Homecomings also lift morale, renewing purpose and commitment, which directly enhances military readiness. Conversely, isolation increases risks of mental health issues, stress-related illnesses, and performance struggles. As a military family advocate noted, “One homecoming is a ‘reset,’ recharging troops for duty.”
The Ben Jackson Foundation tackles this through its Ticket Home Award program, offering up to $1,000 in travel grants to young, active-duty enlisted service members facing financial barriers. The straightforward application prioritizes those in need, ensuring no one must choose between bills and family. These grants are more than financial aid—they’re bridges to loved ones, boosting spirits and strengthening the military community. Fully donor-funded, the program relies on no government support, making every contribution critical to its success.
Donors and volunteers are the heartbeat of this mission. Every gift, big or small, funds a transformative journey. Employer-matched donations amplify this impact, often doubling or tripling the reach. Volunteers, many of whom are former recipients or military families, drive fundraising and awareness, stretching every dollar further. Their efforts create a cycle of giving that sustains the program’s grassroots spirit, free of bureaucratic delays.
These homecomings do more than reunite families—they strengthen community ties, reduce military attrition, and ease transitions to civilian life. Service members with strong connections are less likely to leave early and more likely to thrive post-service. Each trip fosters resilience and hope, impacting not just the individual but the broader community. Donors are integral partners, turning unseen struggles into stories of renewal and connection.
The ripple effect of a single ticket is profound. A visit home lowers depression risks, improves physical health, and reinforces family bonds—critical for young enlistees navigating service. By supporting the Ben Jackson Foundation, donors invest in the well-being and readiness of our nation’s defenders. This isn’t just about a trip—it’s about restoring purpose, belonging, and strength.
Potential donors, your contribution can change lives. A single gift can send a young hero home, rekindle their spirit, and fortify our military. Join the Ben Jackson Foundation’s mission today. Fund a Ticket Home and create ripples of hope and resilience. Together, we ensure no service member feels forgotten, building a stronger future, one journey at a time.
THANK YOU
2nd Annual Tanner Kaltenberg Memorial Golf Outing Raises Over $15,000!
The Ben Jackson Foundation is honored and deeply grateful for the incredible support shown at the 2nd Annual Tanner Kaltenberg Memorial Golf Outing, held on May 30 at the beautiful Edelweiss Country Club. Thanks to the generosity of everyone who participated, the event raised an impressive $15,245 to support our mission of helping newly enlisted military members return home to visit their loved ones.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Jim Kaltenberg and Kristy Micale, parents of Tanner Kaltenberg, along with their dedicated volunteers, for their tireless efforts in organizing this meaningful event. Tanner’s legacy continues to shine through the compassion, generosity, and community spirit displayed by all who take part each year.
A sincere thank-you goes out to the hole sponsors, whose contributions were vital to the outing’s success: Ho Chunk Nation, Ken's Automotive, Wisconsin Distributors, Custom Metals, Inc., Draft House, Dirty Dog Tap Haus, BD Clean LLC, Marriage & Family Solutions, Gary Rockweiler, Dot's Tavern, T&T Lawn Care, Halron Lubricants, Princeton Group, Robert Grignon Family, 5th Quarter Bar & Grill, Inkworks, VFW Stoughton Post 328, Paddy Macs.
Your continued support allows us to honor the sacrifices of our service members and provide them the opportunity to return home during their transition to military life.
To everyone who golfed, sponsored, volunteered, or donated—thank you. Together, we’re keeping Tanner’s spirit alive and making a real difference in the lives of our brave men and women in uniform.
Brownie Troop 7609’s Heartfelt Letters: A New Way to Support Our Military Families
At the Ben Jackson Foundation, we’re always inspired by the creative ways our community finds to support our military families. Beyond donating, volunteering, or hosting fundraisers, there are countless meaningful ways to make a difference.
We’re excited to share a heartwarming example of this through Brownie Troop 7609’s initiative to write letters of encouragement to our Ticket Home Award recipients, spreading joy and appreciation in their own unique way. The troop, made up of 13 girls around age 12, will include their thoughtful letters with future Ticket Home Awards, showcasing a wonderful example of community support for military families.
Led by Jasmine Fill, Kelsey Myers, Meghan Hurley, and Sarah Boley, the troop focuses on projects that teach the girls about their community and how to contribute using their unique talents. They chose the Ben Jackson Foundation for its local roots and national/international impact, allowing the girls to see the broader effect of their efforts.
We’re deeply thankful to the troop leaders and girls for their kindness. Their letters will remind recipients they are valued and appreciated. If you or a group you know would like to get involved in a similar initiative, please contact us—we’d love to collaborate!
From Our Leadership Team
A Board Member’s Reflection on the Ben Jackson Foundation’s Mission
To Our Ben Jackson Foundation Family,
As a board member of the Ben Jackson Foundation, I’m continually humbled by the profound impact of our mission to honor Ben Jackson’s legacy and support our military families. My connection to the Foundation began in 2019, rooted in my time as a Belleville High School graduate, where I likely crossed paths with Ben through shared sports with nearby New Glarus High School. Though I didn’t know Ben personally, the mission his parents, Jen and Larry Jackson, created in his memory resonated deeply with me, especially given my own ties to the military community. When Larry invited me to join the Board of Directors, I felt truly honored to contribute to such a meaningful cause.
Serving on the board has given me a front-row seat to the Foundation’s growth over the past four years. From brainstorming website enhancements and launching our drinkware merchandise line to navigating the challenges of managing a growing volume of applications, every step has been driven by our commitment to Ben’s legacy and our service members. What strikes me most is the authenticity of this organization—every effort, big or small, reflects the genuine care of Jen, Larry, and our dedicated community of supporters, including friends, family, veterans, and local advocates.
Our mission is uniquely vital, addressing a need often overlooked: helping newly enlisted service members afford that all-important trip home to reconnect with loved ones. Unless you’ve lived military life, it’s hard to grasp how transformative these reunions can be. For me, this work is deeply personal, echoing Ben’s own story of his final trip home. Being part of this Foundation, working alongside such an inspiring group, has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I’m grateful to play a role in carrying forward a mission that strengthens military families and keeps Ben’s memory alive.
With gratitude,
Brittany Sparks
Board Member, The Ben Jackson Foundation
If you’d like to support our mission to reunite service members with their families, please visit benjacksonfoundation.org for more information on how to get involved.
Welcome Todd Argall to the Ben Jackson Foundation Board!
We are thrilled to welcome Todd Argall as the newest member of the Ben Jackson Foundation Board, serving as our Treasurer. Todd brings extensive experience in finance, accounting, and leadership—skills that will strengthen our financial stewardship and help advance our mission of supporting military service members.
With a career spanning public accounting, private equity, and startup management, Todd has served as CFO and Partner for firms in Racine and Chicago and held financial leadership roles with two Madison-based startups. His strategic insight and hands-on financial expertise will be invaluable in guiding the foundation’s long-term sustainability and growth.
Beyond his professional achievements, Todd is deeply dedicated to community service. He co-founded and serves as Secretary/Treasurer of Heart to Heart Experiences, Inc., and contributes his time to several organizations, including the Diocese of Madison Finance Council, the St. Raphael Society Clergy Retirement Fund Board, and as Chairman of the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Finance Council. He is also active in environmental preservation as a member of the Prairie Bluff Chapter of The Prairie Enthusiasts.
Please join us in welcoming Todd to the Ben Jackson Foundation Board. We’re grateful for his commitment, leadership, and passion as we continue to honor and support our military community together.
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You have helped provide
787
Ticket Home Awards worth
$504,000
"Receiving a Ben Jackson Foundation Ticket Home Award would be an incredible blessing for me and my family. As a service member, being away from home—especially during meaningful times like the holidays—can be emotionally difficult. Travel expenses often make it hard to visit loved ones, and unfortunately, it's not always possible to afford a trip home on my own."
"This award would give me the opportunity to reconnect with my family, recharge emotionally, and strengthen the bonds that keep me grounded during my service. It would allow me to spend quality time with the people who mean the most to me, something that becomes even more precious with each passing year."
"I have not been home since I left for basic training. I think about home all the time and how much I miss my family. It would financially help my family and I because it is very expensive to fly home. usually a round trip ticket for 1 person is close to $2,000 year around. I am a family of 5 so it would cost my family and I, around $10,000 to visit home."
"Your support will not only help cover the cost of my plane ticket so I can be with my family, but it will also make my dream wedding possible. Thanks to your generosity, the love of my life and I will finally be able to celebrate our marriage ceremony surrounded by our families, marking the start of our journey together."
"Receiving this award would allow me to go home and see my mother for the first time in nearly two years. I’m her only child, and she’s been my entire world since day one. She raised me alone, working multiple jobs just to keep us going. I haven’t been there to help her in person since I enlisted, and this trip would mean more than just a visit, it would be a reminder to her that her sacrifices weren’t for nothing. I want to be able to hug her, thank her face-to-face, and let her see with her own eyes the man she helped shape."
"As I am only an Airmen (E2) the cost of the ticket is difficult to afford, however with your help I’d be able to make it home after serving a year overseas to surprise my family and possibly be there for Christmas, after missing it last year."
"Receiving the Ben Jackson Foundation Ticket Home Award will profoundly impact my life by allowing me to reconnect with my family whom I deeply miss. Being stationed overseas is a big challenge because I am far from home and the time difference makes it difficult to keep connected with family. Having the opportunity to travel back home to visit my mom and three younger siblings will greatly impact my well-being and overall readiness. Having that connection with family will help alleviate some of the stress and challenges I've been facing as the first member in my family to join the military. This visit to my family will boost my morale and mental health. I would love to spend Christmas with my family but travel expenses during holiday season can get really expensive."
"The Ben Jackson Foundation will benefit me by helping ease the financial burden of traveling home after being away for over three years. It hasn’t been easy not being able to visit my family, and this support would finally give me the chance to reconnect with them in person. Being away for so long has meant missing important family gatherings and milestones, which has been tough. The foundation’s help would give me peace of mind, knowing I can see my loved ones without stressing about the cost of travel. Since my home is Hawaii, where family means everything, this opportunity would allow me to go back, spend quality time, and recharge. Overall, the Ben Jackson Foundation would make it possible for me to finally return home and be with the people who matter most."