Melissa Hanks Ketchel, Michael’s sister, is the heart of the Michael Wayne Hanks Legacy Foundation. She has dedicated her life to serving the veteran community, ensuring that the legacies of fallen service members, like her brother Michael, are never forgotten. With over 20 years of experience in veteran advocacy and VA home loan education, Melissa has worked closely with military families, helping them achieve homeownership and understand their rights. Her personal loss has fueled her mission of service, and she has become a pillar of support for veterans, Gold Star families, and the military community. Melissa’s vision for the foundation is to create a space where families can heal, connect, and honor the memory of their loved ones.
Karen Hanks-Allison, Michael’s mother, founded the Michael Wayne Hanks Legacy Foundation as a way to honor her son’s memory. Karen’s enduring love for Michael and her dedication to preserving his legacy inspired the formation of the foundation. Her support and connection to her son’s memory remain the foundation’s emotional core.
Makiah Gladstone, granddaughter of Karen and niece to Michael, represents the next generation of leadership within the foundation. Makiah joined the Army National Guard at the age of 22 and now serves as a Private First Class (PFC), continuing her family’s legacy of service. Inspired by her family’s deep connections to the military, Makiah brings fresh energy and dedication to the foundation, ensuring that Michael’s legacy, and that of others, is carried forward to future generations. Her involvement helps to further the foundation’s mission of supporting veterans and Gold Star families.