Legion Team Members
Donald Bearden
Founder & CEO
Donald dedicated 12 years of service to the Kentucky National Guard, proudly serving his country. However, after his time in uniform ended, he faced severe depression and anxiety, struggling to find a sense of purpose in civilian life. Traditional coping methods provided little relief, leaving him feeling lost—until he discovered the art of blade forging.
Working with fire and steel became more than just a craft; it was a transformative experience. Forging gave Donald a renewed sense of pride, accomplishment, and control over his life, helping him channel his struggles into something tangible and meaningful. Recognizing how powerful this creative process was in his own healing journey, he felt compelled to share it with others who faced similar battles.
Driven by his passion to support fellow veterans and first responders, Donald founded Legion Battle Forge—a nonprofit dedicated to providing a therapeutic forging environment. Through hands-on metalwork, the organization helps those who have sacrificed so much find a new way to cope, heal, and rediscover their strength and resilience.
Patrick Peterson
Vice President
Patrick Strouse is a mission-driven leader, veteran advocate, and nonprofit executive dedicated to empowering service members, veterans, and their families. A U.S. Air Force veteran (2017–2023), he served as an Avionics Technician and Weapons Systems Operations Senior Controller, earning multiple commendations for his leadership and crisis response skills.
Patrick is pursuing an MSW at the University of Massachusetts Global and holds degrees in technical management and avionics. He has completed certifications in healthcare law, project management, military cultural competency, and leadership. An active advocate, he mentors transitioning veterans, supports crisis intervention training, and advises on PTSD and suicide prevention.
With expertise in strategic planning, program development, and operational leadership, Patrick drives impactful initiatives to enhance veteran well-being and community resilience.
Jay Thomas
Director of Media and Public Relations
Mental health is a battle I face daily, and through my own struggles, I have found a calling to be a source of support and strength for those in need. My journey has led me through diverse fields, each shaping my ability to connect, protect, and serve my community. With extensive experience in customer service, security, and animal welfare, I currently serve as an Animal Control Officer for Oldham County, Kentucky. In addition to enforcing animal welfare laws and ensuring public safety, I take on the crucial role of managing the department’s media and public relations bridging the gap between our community and the work we do to protect animals and people alike.
Stacia Hayes
Treasury Director
With over 30 years of experience in financial management across the Department of Defense, corporate, and non-profit sectors, Stacia L. Hayes is a results-driven leader known for integrity, process improvement, and team development. Currently a Senior Staff Accountant at Life Care Centers of America, she ensures financial compliance, reporting accuracy, and strategic optimization for multiple healthcare facilities.
Previously, she managed accounting and HR for an international non-profit and served as a financial controller in the U.S. Army Reserve, overseeing budgeting, policy development, and training programs. Stacia holds a B.S. in Business Management and is pursuing an MBA in Finance. She is an active member of the American Society of Military Comptrollers and the Army Finance Corps Association.
Ben Childress
Sergeant at Arms
As a veteran and dedicated member of this organization, I am honored to serve on the board and contribute my skills in support of our mission. With an extensive background in security account management, I offer strategic insight, operational expertise, and leadership experience to help guide the organization’s growth and impact. In addition to my professional career, I host a sports program on Metro TV, where I engage with the community and share my passion for athletics. A lifelong supporter of teams such as the Cincinnati Reds and Louisville Bats, I value the principles of teamwork and dedication—qualities I bring to my service here. I am committed to advancing the mission of this organization and making a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans and their families.
Local Veterans and First Responders Share Their Stories