Supporting Veterans and their families all across Arizona.
Get to know the board of directors.
Ricardo "Buck" Martinez
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
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
Chelsea Cauffman
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!
Josh Moorefield
Chelsea Cauffman
I'm Josh, ARMY veteran of 14 years. I served with the 82nd and the 173rd ABN DIV for multiple deployments and contingency missions across multiple countries. I was elected the Secretary of State 48 in July 2025. I strongly believe we are effective at training soldiers, but lack any competent wholesome training when it comes to transitioning to civilian life. I look forward to giving back to the veteran community.
Josh Grant
Josh Grant
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.