Who We Are

Stronger Together. Always.

We are veterans, family members, faith leaders, and community builders—all united by one mission: to help combat veterans heal the wounds that can’t be seen.

Through golf, peer connection, trauma-informed therapy, and spiritual growth, we’re walking beside warriors on their path to recovery. We are a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, and all donations are tax-deductible

A man in a suit and tie is smiling for the camera.
Meet our Warrior Connection Team

Tom Underdown 

Co-founder and President

Born into a military family, Tom’s father served in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, while his mother was an army nurse during WWII.Tom is passionate about helping combat veterans and their families, understanding firsthand the impact of post-traumatic stress.


Now retired from Oracle after a 31-year career as a Senior Account Executive, Tom dedicates 100% of his time to Warrior Connection.

Jason Eckman

Co-Founder and Vice President

Born in Pittsburgh, PA, Jason served in the U.S. Marine Corps and retired as a Gunnery Sergeant. 

 

In May of 2021, Jason graduated from Liberty University with his bachelor's degree in Biblical and Theological studies, with a focus on apologetics. He is now a true warrior of Christ and focuses his time and efforts on serving Warrior Connection and the Forge. He has first-hand experience and knowledge in combating post traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury.  

Fernando chavez

Co-Founder and Executive Director

Originally from Houston, TX, Fernando is a combat veteran and enterprise transformation leader who brings private sector experience solving complex, high-stakes problems and driving measurable impact. After 11 years of service in the U.S. Army and earning his MBA from Duke University, he is focused on applying what he has learned in strategy and execution to help scale and strengthen Warrior Connection's mission.

Buddy Lawrence 

Co-Founder and Director of Operations

Born in Jacksonville, NC, Buddy served as a Navy SEAL on Team 1. After his military service, he launched a successful PGA career at Jacksonville Country Club, excelling in golf property management for 38 years. 


Now retired, Buddy enjoys golf and family time. He now dedicates his time to Warrior Connection Healing Unseen Wounds Veteran Hope Golf Family

James White

Co-Founder and Board Member

Born on Long Island, NY, after enlisting for four years as a Crew Chief in the Air Force during Vietnam, Jim served as an Army Chaplain for over twenty-eight years. He retired at the rank of Colonel.


After retiring, Jim earned a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Midwestern Baptist Seminary with a focus on Biblical Resiliency. Out of his Doctoral thesis came the biblical ideas of Faith, Family, Fulfillment, and Freedom as a means of remaining strong and resilient during tough times. 100% disabled himself, he knows what it takes to recover physically, mentally, and spiritually from the wounds of war. He continues to serve with a passion for helping other veterans and their families through Warrior Connection.

Alexis Arzuaga

Co-Founder and Board Member

Alexis was born and raised in Puerto Rico, and began his military service in the Army Reserves and then transitioned to Active Duty with the U.S. Marines. After almost 11 years of military service, he transitioned to Law Enforcement and later began working in hospitals as a chaplain, and then in mental health outpatient and inpatient settings. He earned graduate degrees from Duke University and Wake Forest University and is currently involved with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He is a licensed mental health provider and provides services in South Carolina and North Carolina through his office in Chapel Hill, NC.


Alexis is committed to Warrior Connection's mission and hopes to support the organization and its members' growth by attending to their practical, cognitive/emotional, and spiritual needs.

Our Purpose

Hope. Healing. Brotherhood.


Every day, 22 veterans lose their lives to suicide.

We’re here to change that.


We create a space where combat veterans can reconnect with what matters—purpose, community, and peace of mind. Whether it’s a round of golf, a group meal, or a conversation that opens the door to therapy, our goal is simple: show up, lift up, and never leave anyone behind. Golf is just the beginning. It’s what opens the door to healing.

Our Programs

Have Questions or Need Guidance?

We’re here to answer and provide the support you need.