In this year’s LKNW Veterans Edition, we once again shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals whose service has helped shape our nation and safeguard the freedoms we hold dear. In partnership with David Hodson, CEO of Because You Served, we are proud to share stories that bring the meaning of service to life, from the sacrifices made in uniform to the lasting impact carried home. Behind every veteran is a story of commitment, courage, and challenges few will ever fully understand. We also recognize the families whose love and support are an essential part of that journey. As you explore these pages, we hope you’ll be inspired by the lives, experiences, and enduring contributions of our veterans.
Throughout our nation’s history, women have answered the call to serve, demonstrating extraordinary courage, resilience, and patriotism. Lake Norman Woman magazine and WSIC Radio, in partnership with Katie Stankiewicz, CEO of Willow Equine and Executive Director of Soul to Sole Connection, proudly honor three local women whose military service, personal sacrifices, and enduring contributions continue to inspire us all.
Kathi Harward
Kathi Harwardserved in the U.S. Army from 2001 to 2003 as a 92G food service specialist. Always knowing she wanted to work with children, she saw the Army’s college benefits and the GI Bill as an opportunity to pursue that dream. Since her discharge, she has earned three degrees: an associate degree in general studies, a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with an emphasis in math, and a master’s degree in early childhood education.
Her Army experience took an unexpected turn when the September 11 attacks occurred. “I was stationed in Fort Hood, Texas,” she shares, “when orders came for deployment; however, I was not able to deploy as I was pending a medical discharge. I was diagnosed with aerobic and environmental-induced asthma. One of the greatest challenges was watching fellow soldiers, including my husband, deploy to Iraq. We even spent our first wedding anniversary apart.”
Today, Kathi and her husband have been married for 24 years and have two beautiful daughters. She hopes more Americans understand that military service reaches far beyond the individual in uniform. It touches spouses, children, extended family, friends, and the support systems that help loved ones navigate deployments, uncertainty, and time apart.
Kathi’s journey is a testament to the power of following your calling, embracing opportunities, and persevering through life’s unexpected turns. For women considering military service, she offers this encouragement: “DO IT if that is what your heart tells you to do! Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. Just be mentally prepared for people trying to put you down. But don’t let them stop you.”
Marlo Mikael
After graduating from college and receiving her commission in 1992, Marlo Mikeal became an aircraft maintenance officer with the U.S. Air Force, primarily working with C-130 aircraft. She deployed twice to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Southern Watch, helping enforce the no-fly zone over southern Iraq.
“I was introduced to the idea of the Air Force through a friend of mine while I was in college,” Marlo shares. “This was way outside my comfort zone, but I was drawn to it. Once I got involved and realized how much this opened up my world, I was hooked.”
Military service challenged Marlo to grow as both an officer and a leader, balancing the technical demands of aircraft maintenance with the responsibility of leading others.
“As a young officer, you are immediately put into a leadership position of some sort, but you have so little experience and so much to learn,” she explains. “As a woman in a predominantly male career field, I had to work hard to earn people’s trust and make sure my people knew I had their backs and would look out for them.”
Transitioning back to civilian life after the military presents its own hurdles as veterans adjust to a new world “back home.” Reestablishing routines, building connections, and navigating unfamiliar professional and personal situations can feel overwhelming at times.
“Despite the many challenges, the military allowed me to grow as a leader, continue learning, and discover a world I wouldn’t have known otherwise. Above all, it gave me a sense of purpose and belonging to something much bigger than myself.”
Paige Keenan
From 1997 to 2022, Paige Keenan served in the U.S. Coast Guard, witnessing both peacetime and wartime operations. Throughout her 25-year career, she contributed to homeland security, maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, disaster relief, and missions following September 11.
“I was inspired to join the Coast Guard,” she shares, “because I wanted to serve our nation, see the world, and get my education. Protecting American waterways and making a difference in people’s lives also inspired me. The camaraderie and trust among service members are unlike anything else. Knowing that your team is counting on you, and that you can count on them, creates bonds that last a lifetime.”
Helping others during emergencies and disasters made that commitment especially meaningful for Paige. One of her greatest challenges, however, was balancing her military responsibilities with family life. Long hours, time at sea, and unexpected missions often meant missing holidays, birthdays, and many milestone moments.
“Military personnel come from all walks of life and serve for many different reasons,” she says, “but they share a commitment to something greater than themselves. Behind that dedication are families navigating separation and uncertainty while their loved ones protect the nation.”
For women considering the military, Paige encourages confidence and an open mind. She urges them to explore available paths rather than allow stereotypes or expectations to dictate their choices.
“Be confident in your abilities,” she advises, “work hard, and never be afraid to take on challenges. Your dedication, professionalism, and character will earn respect and open doors throughout your military career and beyond.”
