Our Staff

Ricardo “Buck” Martinez

President

Rick “Buck” Martinez is a proud Army veteran and the President of the State 48 Veterans Association, where he channels his passion for service into supporting fellow veterans across Arizona. From 1991 to 2000, Rick served eight years in the U.S. Army, beginning with the National Guard in Oregon and California before going active duty and being stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas in 1992. It was there he met his wife, Dawn, in 1994, a moment that marked the start of a lifelong partnership rooted in love and shared purpose.

Having faced the ups and downs of post-service life, Rick understands firsthand the challenges veterans encounter after leaving the military. That’s why he’s committed to building a community through State 48 Veterans Association that offers real support, connection, and especially in areas where he once struggled himself.

Today, Rick and Dawn live in the Phoenix area where they care for their mothers and stay deeply involved in local veteran and community initiatives. They’ve raised three children who now have families of their own, and Rick continues to lead with heart, humility, and a steadfast dedication to those who’ve served.

Mike “Z” Zahnow

Vice President

Hi I’m Z, an Army veteran and a founding member of the State 48 Veterans Association. I deployed to Afghanistan in 2007–08 during Operation Enduring Freedom, and those experiences shaped my passion for supporting veterans. I helped create our association to empower Arizona’s veterans with resources, advocacy, and community support, focusing on benefits, employment, and mental health. I’m dedicated to ensuring my fellow veterans get the support they deserve, and I’m proud to lead and serve in our community.

Chelsea Cauffman

Treasurer

Hi, I’m Chelsea! I was elected to be the Treasurer for the organization in June 2024. I’m the wife of an Army Veteran & I have a profound passion for supporting veterans and their families, stemming from a deep respect and gratitude for their sacrifice and service to our country. I look forward to helping Veterans & their families!

Dawn Martinez

Secretary

Dawn is a proud daughter, wife, and mother of veterans, carrying her family’s legacy of service into everything she does. With over 20 years of experience as a dedicated hair stylist, she has built a career rooted in creativity, care, and community. Dawn’s husband, Rick, serves as the President of the State 48 Veterans Association, an organization she has passionately supported since 2022. Her commitment to veterans and their families continues to shape her work, her service, and her role in the community.

Josh Grant

Information Officer

Hello, I am Josh. I was elected as the Information Officer for the organization in April 2024. I currently serve in the Arizona Army National Guard and have completed three deployments to Afghanistan in 2007–08, 2010–11, and 2012–13. I am passionate about helping veterans and look forward to meeting and assisting all of you. With my military experience, I have supported veterans for 10 years through the Veterans of Foreign Wars and for 6 years with the American Legion. My involvement with these organizations has made me aware of a gap in support for veterans, inspiring me to help in other ways, such as through the State 48 Veterans Association.