Who we are

Under One Flag is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization founded by military personnel and first responders, dedicated to honoring and supporting those who protect our freedoms and keep us safe. With no paid positions, we ensure that every donor dollar directly impacts the lives of those we serve, maximizing our ability to express gratitude and provide meaningful support to our nation’s heroes.

Meet the Team

  • SSG Michael Burns is the Co-Founder and President of Under One Flag, a nonprofit empowering Veterans and First Responders through outdoor connection and community. A U.S. Army veteran with 10 years of service and six combat tours in Iraq, he was medically retired after surviving catastrophic injuries, including the loss of his left leg.

    Determined to keep serving, Michael earned a Business degree from Oklahoma State University and an Executive MBA from Harvard Business School. He co-founded Operation Pay It Forward, sits on the board of Mobility Mountain, and leads LaMoyne & Co. Land Acquisitions while working as a Landman in Texas.

    A devoted husband and father of four, Michael lives by a simple truth: those who made it home owe it to those who didn’t to live fully—with honor, purpose, and gratitude.

  • Bryan Lynn is the Co-Founder and Vice President of Under One Flag. A proud U.S. Army veteran and former Staff Sergeant with over a decade of service in the Ordnance Corps. A weapons systems expert, he mastered both U.S. and foreign military armaments and served in Afghanistan and multiple overseas deployments.

    Now rooted in Clyde, Texas, Bryan leads a dynamic life—managing a game ranch, serving his community through county government, and volunteering with the Clyde Fire Department. A devoted husband, grandfather, and patriot, he cherishes time on the family ranch with his wife Cheryl and their granddaughter, finding purpose in service, family, and the great outdoors.

  • Edward “Eddie” Valdez retired USAF Security Forces SMSgt with 26 years of service, Eddie transitioned into the civilian sector in 2018 and continues to lead within the Department of the Air Force.

    He brings deep expertise in PL1 security, having served at high-threat installations like Minot and Aviano. Eddie has held key leadership roles across all facets of Security Forces—including Ops, Logistics (S4), and Plans & Programs (S5)—and now serves as Chief of S5 at Dyess AFB.

    As trusted member of the Wing Inspection Team, he’s assessed mission readiness across multiple SF functions. Beyond his professional roles, Eddie is a passionate advocate for the veteran community and dedicates his time to supporting those in need.

  • Richard “Dirty” Sanchez is a retired U.S. Army Infantry Senior NCO with over 14 years of service and multiple combat deployments to Ramadi, Iraq; Kandahar and Kunar, Afghanistan. His final tour earned him a Purple Heart and ultimately led to his medical retirement.

    Since leaving the Army, Dirty has spent more than a decade championing veteran mental health—dedicating his life to helping fellow warriors find healing and purpose through nonprofit outdoor programs. Whether it’s hunting, fishing, or just getting outside, Dirty believes the wilderness saves lives.

    A proud husband and father of six, he now calls Colorado home, where he continues to serve his community, one veteran at a time.

  • Carl Higbie is a former Navy SEAL and the bold voice behind FRONTLINE on Newsmax. With over a decade in national media, Carl first rose to prominence after his decorated military service, which included two combat deployments to Iraq and missions across the globe. He served as a Trump administration appointee during the 45th president’s first term and is the author of four hard-hitting books. Off the air, Carl is deeply committed to giving back—dedicating his time and platform to supporting veterans and first responders. Whether in the field or on screen, Higbie brings the grit, clarity, and courage of a warrior turned watchdog.


  • Tomas "PV" Perez-Vega is a dedicated U.S. Air Force veteran with 19 years of service in Security Forces, including multiple deployments to the Middle East and South America.

    A passionate outdoorsman, PV spends his free time hunting, mountain biking, fishing, and camping.

    Beyond his military service, he is a strong advocate for veterans and first responders, using his platform to raise awareness for mental health and foster resilience within the community.