Our Team
Founder
Harold Skelton
Harold Skelton, a disabled Iraq veteran, is the passionate founder and director of Fishing for the Mission 22. Having personally endured the profound challenges of PTSD, suicidal thoughts, and depression stemming from his military service, Harold embarked on a remarkable journey to make a difference.
Motivated by the alarming statistic of 22 veterans lost to suicide daily in the United States, Harold decided to utilize his own healing experience to benefit his fellow brothers and sisters. Over the past seven years, he has undergone a transformative process and discovered the therapeutic power of fishing.
Recognizing the profound impact that fishing and the support of his children had on his own recovery, Harold made a life-altering decision. He dedicated himself to creating Fishing for the Mission 22, a nonprofit organization that harnesses the therapeutic potential of fishing to aid veterans still grappling with the hidden scars of war.
Harold’s personal journey, coupled with his unwavering commitment to saving lives, has shaped Fishing for the Mission 22 into a beacon of hope for struggling veterans. Through fishing excursions, camaraderie, and a supportive community, Harold’s organization provides a healing sanctuary where veterans can find solace, understanding, and renewed purpose. With an unyielding determination, Harold Skelton has devoted the remainder of his life to building a legacy of transformation and support for his fellow veterans. His unwavering dedication to the cause serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating the incredible potential for healing and growth that lies within each individual.
Under Harold’s leadership, Fishing for the Mission 22 continues to expand its reach and positively impact the lives of veterans across the nation.
Chief Joseph R. Hill
Meet Chief Joseph R. Hill, who became the Chief of Police for the Horry County Police Department on September 23, 2016. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Joe first entered the Washington DC Metropolitan Police Academy in June 1984 as a Reserve Officer while also serving in the U.S. Navy as a Cryptologist for Naval Intelligence. Afterward, he joined the Fairfax County Police Department in October 1988. During his time in the Metropolitan DC region, Joe was on duty on September 11, 2001, when America was attacked. The events of that day and the days that followed inspired Joe to work with the United States Department of State to teach Counter Terror operations and Investigations to our foreign allies across the globe. In 2016, Joe retired from Fairfax County to lead the Horry County Police Department.
Joe is a dedicated student of ethical leadership training and education for professionals in the field of Law Enforcement. With years of experience in Counter-Terrorism instruction with the U.S. State Department’s Anti-Terror Assistance Program (ATA), Joe has become an accomplished mentor to senior members of police agencies worldwide. He has also taught Police and Military commanders overseas, conducting counter-terror operations and promoting ethical leadership. Joe is an active member of several prestigious organizations, including the National Association of Black Law Enforcement Executives, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and the South Carolina Chiefs Association. In addition to his many duties, Joe is also a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of the Grand Strand, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to his community.
Joe graduated with honors from the University of Richmond, receiving his undergraduate degree in HR and leadership and an Honor Graduate of the Graduate program at the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Joe is also a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy, session 256. Since Joe’s arrival as Chief of Police with the HCPD, Joe’s focus has been reducing crime and the fear of crime associated with gang and drug violence. Reducing violent crime requires close collaboration with federal, local and state partners to allocate specific resources towards identifying and removing repeat offenders from our community; this has been a cornerstone of Joe’s time as Chief of Police for the Horry County Police Department.
Joe is a dedicated student of ethical leadership training and education for professionals in the field of Law Enforcement. With years of experience in Counter-Terrorism instruction with the U.S. State Department’s Anti-Terror Assistance Program (ATA), Joe has become an accomplished mentor to senior members of police agencies worldwide. He has also taught Police and Military commanders overseas, conducting counter-terror operations and promoting ethical leadership. Joe is an active member of several prestigious organizations, including the National Association of Black Law Enforcement Executives, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and the South Carolina Chiefs Association. In addition to his many duties, Joe is also a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of the Grand Strand, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to his community.
Joe graduated with honors from the University of Richmond, receiving his undergraduate degree in HR and leadership and an Honor Graduate of the Graduate program at the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Joe is also a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy, session 256. Since Joe’s arrival as Chief of Police with the HCPD, Joe’s focus has been reducing crime and the fear of crime associated with gang and drug violence. Reducing violent crime requires close collaboration with federal, local and state partners to allocate specific resources towards identifying and removing repeat offenders from our community; this has been a cornerstone of Joe’s time as Chief of Police for the Horry County Police Department.
James R McMahon III
As a lifelong resident of Cape Cod, I bring over 40 years of diverse professional experience to the table, spanning legal, law enforcement, corporate business management, and military sectors.
My journey began at the Massachusetts Military Academy, from which I graduated and subsequently served as a lieutenant in the Massachusetts Army National Guard’s Military Police. My commitment to public service continued in local law enforcement on Cape Cod before I decided to further my education. I earned a degree in business administration from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, followed by a law degree from Suffolk University Law School.
As a small business owner and a seasoned trial lawyer in Bourne, my practice involves litigating cases across all court levels, including state and federal courts, as well as before various government agencies.
In addition to my legal career, I am an active participant in political and community service. I currently serve as an elected member of the State Committee for the Massachusetts Republican Party. My local community involvement includes time spent on the Bourne Financial Development Corporation, coordinating Bourne Youth Baseball, and guest lecturing at area high schools and community colleges.
Family is the cornerstone of my life. Married to my wife, Shelley, for 30 years, I am a proud father of five and a doting grandfather of three. In a tragic turn of events, my eldest son succumbed to the opioid epidemic in 2008, following injuries sustained while serving in the U.S. Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
My journey began at the Massachusetts Military Academy, from which I graduated and subsequently served as a lieutenant in the Massachusetts Army National Guard’s Military Police. My commitment to public service continued in local law enforcement on Cape Cod before I decided to further my education. I earned a degree in business administration from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, followed by a law degree from Suffolk University Law School.
As a small business owner and a seasoned trial lawyer in Bourne, my practice involves litigating cases across all court levels, including state and federal courts, as well as before various government agencies.
In addition to my legal career, I am an active participant in political and community service. I currently serve as an elected member of the State Committee for the Massachusetts Republican Party. My local community involvement includes time spent on the Bourne Financial Development Corporation, coordinating Bourne Youth Baseball, and guest lecturing at area high schools and community colleges.
Family is the cornerstone of my life. Married to my wife, Shelley, for 30 years, I am a proud father of five and a doting grandfather of three. In a tragic turn of events, my eldest son succumbed to the opioid epidemic in 2008, following injuries sustained while serving in the U.S. Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Dr. Johnathan Tirrell
Jonathan is a Research Associate Professor at the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development within the Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study and Human Development at Tufts University. He actively engages in researcher-practitioner partnerships with both local and international organizations, aiming to promote positive youth development, character and leadership development, and overall thriving across various contexts. His ongoing research initiatives encompass partnerships in Rwanda, Uganda, South Africa, El Salvador, and the United States.
Furthermore, Jonathan has provided advisory expertise to prominent organizations such as UNICEF and USAID. Currently, he holds the position of co-editor for the Journal of Character Education and serves as the Associate Editor for character development within Applied Developmental Science.
Furthermore, Jonathan has provided advisory expertise to prominent organizations such as UNICEF and USAID. Currently, he holds the position of co-editor for the Journal of Character Education and serves as the Associate Editor for character development within Applied Developmental Science.
Wayne Soares
Wayne is a multifaceted professional, known for his work as an actor, author, and producer, alongside his previous role as an ESPN Radio Broadcaster. Notably, he is recognized for his dedicated entertainment of troops stationed overseas. Presently, Wayne’s veterans’ cooking show, “The Mess Hall,” is poised for its second season on NBC, while he is preparing to film the second episode of his impactful Vietnam Veterans Documentary, “Silent Dignity.” The initial episode of this documentary left a profound impact, offering closure to many veterans.
In addition to his diverse portfolio, Wayne authors a nationally syndicated column titled “Veterans Spotlight” and recently lent his voice as the national spokesperson for Topps Baseball’s new app.
In addition to his diverse portfolio, Wayne authors a nationally syndicated column titled “Veterans Spotlight” and recently lent his voice as the national spokesperson for Topps Baseball’s new app.
Ret. Lt. Col. Brent Finemore
During his 20-year tenure in the U.S. Army, Brent achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and held pivotal leadership roles, including Product Manager for Defense Satellite Communications Systems at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, and Chief of the Acquisitions Plan Division, CIO, Department of the Army at the Pentagon.
In the private sector, Brent spent 17 years at General Dynamics Mission Systems, where he served as Director of Business Development. In this capacity, he collaborated closely with all branches of the military and federal agencies to conceptualize and deliver cutting-edge C5ISR systems. Additionally, Brent dedicated nearly 3 years as the Vice President of Government Sales for Pelican Products. Presently, Brent serves as the Vice President for Strategic Engagement at Greywalkers Inc., offering consulting services to clients in the DoD and Federal Agency markets.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Brent actively contributes to the community as a member of the Falmouth Walk Committee and plays an integral role at John Wesley United Methodist Church in Falmouth, Massachusetts, where he leads the Staff Parish Relations Ministry Team and participates in The Leadership Team.
In the private sector, Brent spent 17 years at General Dynamics Mission Systems, where he served as Director of Business Development. In this capacity, he collaborated closely with all branches of the military and federal agencies to conceptualize and deliver cutting-edge C5ISR systems. Additionally, Brent dedicated nearly 3 years as the Vice President of Government Sales for Pelican Products. Presently, Brent serves as the Vice President for Strategic Engagement at Greywalkers Inc., offering consulting services to clients in the DoD and Federal Agency markets.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Brent actively contributes to the community as a member of the Falmouth Walk Committee and plays an integral role at John Wesley United Methodist Church in Falmouth, Massachusetts, where he leads the Staff Parish Relations Ministry Team and participates in The Leadership Team.
Brian Smith
Brian, a native of Cape Cod Cape Cod, MA, currently holds the role of Vice President of Operations for GE Steam Power Nuclear Services. With a wealth of experience in Nuclear Power Plants, he specializes in Field Engineering and the Nuclear Steam Turbine Parts business. Brian is dedicated to upholding Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC) programs, ensuring alignment with the standards of GE Nuclear Steam Services, the nuclear industry, and customer expectations.
Having spent 20 years at GE Hitachi, Brian, a devoted father of two and a passionate boating enthusiast, made the decision to relocate to Massachusetts. His professional journey began with the Nuclear Field Engineer Training Program (FEP) and progressed to the role of Reactor Outage & Maintenance Services Leader, overseeing global nuclear reactor maintenance and services.
In 2020, Brian assumed the role of Americas Region Operations Leader at GE Steam Power, where he took on significant responsibilities. Currently, he serves as the Steam Nuclear Services Operations Leader.
A graduate of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Brian is deeply committed to giving back, actively participating in industry and charitable endeavors. His philanthropic involvement includes contributions to The United Way, The Jimmy Fund, and a position on the Board of Directors for Fishing for the Mission 22, a charity dedicated to preventing veteran suicide through theraputic fishing.
In 2020, Brian assumed the role of Americas Region Operations Leader at GE Steam Power, where he took on significant responsibilities. Currently, he serves as the Steam Nuclear Services Operations Leader.
A graduate of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Brian is deeply committed to giving back, actively participating in industry and charitable endeavors. His philanthropic involvement includes contributions to The United Way, The Jimmy Fund, and a position on the Board of Directors for Fishing for the Mission 22, a charity dedicated to preventing veteran suicide through theraputic fishing.
Ramon Lorenzi
Ramon is a dedicated professional with a strong focus on behavioral health, tirelessly assisting individuals and families in addressing their mental health concerns and improving their overall well-being. With nearly two decades of extensive experience in child services across both the public and private sectors, he founded Lorenzi Health Care. Ramon has honed his expertise in crisis intervention, family therapy, case management, and medical social work. His service in the National Guard highlights his unwavering commitment to his country and has provided him with valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by veterans.
As an independent licensed practitioner in Massachusetts, Ramon holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and an MBA, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of both social work principles and effective business management strategies. He emphasizes strategic planning, efficient resource allocation, and collaboration to maximize impact. Ramon’s deep passion lies in advocating for families confronted with basic needs challenges, particularly in areas such as nutrition and housing. Recognizing the specific difficulties encountered by veterans, he actively works towards developing sustainable solutions. Leveraging his extensive knowledge and broad network, Ramon strives to establish impactful initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the lives of those he serves.
Steve Palm
The lives of Steve and his wife were forever changed on July 17, 2014, when their beloved daughter, Kacie Elizabeth Palm, tragically took her own life at the tender age of 14.
In the aftermath of this heartbreaking loss, Steve and his wife founded The Kacie Project, stemming from The Bristol County Regional Coalition for Suicide Prevention (BCRCSP). Seeking solace through the coalition’s grief support services, they found strength and understanding at The Kitchen Table Conversation for Suicide Loss Survivors, where they connected with others who had also experienced the profound loss of a loved one to suicide.
Harnessing their grief into a powerful force for change, they committed themselves to the cause of suicide prevention, volunteering their time to ensure that other families would not have to endure a similar tragedy. Their journey serves as a testament to resilience and an unwavering dedication to building a world where families are spared the pain they have endured.
Harnessing their grief into a powerful force for change, they committed themselves to the cause of suicide prevention, volunteering their time to ensure that other families would not have to endure a similar tragedy. Their journey serves as a testament to resilience and an unwavering dedication to building a world where families are spared the pain they have endured.
Mark St. Jean
Mark, formerly a principal at Realty Financial Partners, brings a wealth of diverse real estate experience spanning twenty-eight years, covering private equity, distressed debt, investment banking, asset management, acquisitions, dispositions, lending, and brokerage. He holds a real estate broker’s license in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and has previously been licensed for NASD Series 7 and Series 63. During his extensive tenure at Realty Financial Partners, Mark specialized in sourcing, underwriting, and closing structured finance and equity joint venture transactions, playing a key role in strategic planning and investment as a senior member of the investment committee. Beyond real estate, Mark is a co-founder and investor in Stone Path Malt, LLC, which utilizes innovative and scalable technology to produce and supply craft specialty malt to the craft brewing industry. Additionally, he has invested as a Senior Secured Lender in Minkle Boys Catering.
