Ashley Tatum (she/her), USN

Ashley Tatum (she/her) is a Navy Veteran who served as an AZ2 on active duty from 2002 to 2009 and then served as a YN2 in the reserves until 2011. Her duty stations include VAW 117, where she obtained her EAWS qualification and was the only female plane captain in her command. She went on three deployments while there. She then moved on to FRC Point Mugu where she was the Admin LPO. After her contract ended, she transferred to work with the SeaBees as a reservist. Shortly after, she started going to school and obtained her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Healthcare Administration. Since graduation, she had spent the last nearly seven years working in veterans’ mental health as a Case Manager. During this time, she has spoken multiple times at the national level on topics she’s most passionate about—women veterans and LGBTQ veterans. She also has been selected as one of San Diego Business Journal Veterans of Influence, was selected to be in The Foundation for Women Warriors leadership cohort, is an Onward Ops trained mentor for Trans servicemembers and has returned to school to obtain her degree in Black Studies. Ashley currently volunteers with Courage to Call as a co-facilitator for a support group that serves LGBTQ veterans and active-duty service members. In her free time, she enjoys being with her kids, her dog, and training for her next half marathon. She would like to thank her children Tayor and TJ for inspiring her to continue to learn and grow every day. 

Jeff Hall (he/him), USA

Jeff Hall (he/him) served in the U.S. Army from 1987-1991 and continued his service in the Arizona Army National Guard from 1991-1995. During his enlistment, Jeff was promoted to Sergeant. He was the Distinguished Honor Graduate in both his AIT course and the Primary Leadership Development Course at the NCO Academy at Fort Bragg, NC. In August of 1990, Jeff’s unit was part of the U.S. Army’s Rapid Deployment Force and was one of the first combat troops on the ground in Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Shield. His artillery battery later advanced into Iraq, providing fire support during Operation Desert Storm for the liberation of Kuwait. After returning from active duty, Jeff continued his service in the National Guard, serving in an artillery battery on campus at Arizona State University while pursuing his accounting degree. Jeff is a board member of the San Diego Division of the California Financial Crimes Investigators Association (CFCIA) and a member of the Don Diego VFW Post 7420 supporting their mission to help stop the deportation of U.S. veterans. He is a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Hillcrest, serving as the first club treasurer. He also has previously served as a board member of the San Diego American Flag Football League (SDAFFL) and most recently as the Director of Volunteers for Gay Bowl XXV here in San Diego. Jeff devotes his time to causes that benefit youth, veterans, and the Hillcrest community.

Jennifer P. K. Jow (she/her), USN

Jennifer “Jen” Jow was born in Hong Kong and was adopted by loving Chinese parents from the Bay Area. After high school she enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from 1980–1984 and 1988–1990. After her Honorable Discharge as a Yeoman, Third-Class Petty Officer (E4), she later joined the reserves. Her service was based in San Diego, where she earned recognition as Fleet Training Center Sailor of the Year (1982) and a nominee for U.S. Navy Woman of the Year (1984). She worked as an Executive Sales and Marketing Consultant with various corporations and received multiple awards with sales excellence and leadership. She holds a Master of Arts in Business and Organizational Management. Jen’s commitment to service extended beyond the military. She became a dedicated volunteer in the San Diego LGBTQ+ community, supporting The San Diego LGBT Community Center, AIDS Walk, and the Marriage Equality campaign. Since 2014, she has volunteered with San Diego Pride, earning a 10-Year Volunteer Award from Mayor Todd Gloria in 2024. An active member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, Jen has served as a greeter, Senior Lay Leader, and on the Evangelism Outreach Team. She has helped plan the Cathedral’s 150th anniversary and the annual Light up the Cathedral event, and contributed to Integrity, a ministry focused on LGBTQ+ outreach. Jen has held board positions with St. Paul’s Senior Services, the Cathedral, the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, and Episcopal Community Services. Jen’s life reflects a deep commitment to service, advocacy, and community leadership.

Joe Zilvinskis (he/him), USN

After graduating from the University of Notre Dame in 1980, Joe Zilvinskis received his commission and reported to Naval Nuclear Power School (NNPS) Orlando, FL, and then Naval Reactors Facility (NRF) Idaho Falls, ID. He then reported to Groton Connecticut where he joined the crew of the USS La Jolla SSN 701 and was a plank owner upon its commissioning. From there, he spent several years as a Ship Repair Superintendent at Subic Bay Ship Repair Facility in the Philippines and then eventually to Submarine Base San Diego, where he served as the Director of the Counseling and Assistance Center. Just prior to his arrival in San Diego, he was among the first several cohorts of Naval personnel diagnosed with HIV (1987). He remained in active service until 1991, when he was medically discharged with the rank of Lieutenant. During his time on active duty, he received the Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Navy “E” Engineering ribbon, and Overseas Service ribbon. Upon entering civilian life, he has spent the last 29 years at a small non-profit assisting unhoused individuals and families throughout San Diego County. In the late 1980s, he joined the San Diego Men’s Chorus, eventually serving as president of the board until shortly before it merged and formed the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus. He is a long-standing member of POZabilities, and has served on its board since 2015. He also served as a member of the County’s HIV Planning Council, where he became the chair of the Membership Committee and Interim Council Chair. Joe lives with his husband Steve Jaeger in Chula Vista.

Michael Rolfe Zarbo (he/him), USAF

Michael Zarbo was born in Cubi Point, Subic Bay Philippines, to Chief Petty Officer Joseph Salvatore Zarbo and Dr. Lydia Dela-Pena Viray. While pursuing his engineering degree at Mapua Institute of Technology, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at Clark Air Force Base. His initial assignment was at Misawa AFB, Japan, in the 432nd EMS Squadron as a Non-Destructive Inspection Specialist (aircraft doctors). He specialized in the F-16 single engine fighter aircraft. Following his tour of duty in Japan, he received relocation orders to Nellis AFB, Nevada. During his assignment at Nellis AFB, he supervised the Spectrometric Oil Analysis Lab which inspected aircraft fighters F-16, F-15, and F-14. He collaborated closely with the Thunderbirds. Michael moved to San Diego after being honorably discharged in 1992. He has been involved in the Imperial Court for over 30 years, has served as a board member and has organized events such as the Coronation Ball, Scott Carlson Thanksgiving Dinner, Community Easter Egg Hunt, and Harvey Milk Breakfast. He has supported programs like the Nicole Murray Ramirez Scholarship Fund, Toni Atkins Lesbian Health Fund, and Benjamin Dillingham Community Grant. He has also been involved in organizations such as The San Diego LGBT Community Center, APICAP, and Casa de Luz. On March 11, 2025, Michael married his long-time partner, Luis Reyes. In his spare time, he enjoys spoiling his grandchildren Gianna, Atlas, Maya, and Seneca.

Miguel Hernandez (he/him), USA

Miguel Hernandez (he/him) served in the U.S. Army from 1986 to 1989, achieving the rank of Specialist 4 (E-4) as a Food Service Specialist (MOS: 94B). Miguel joined the Army Reserves until 1990, when he was ordered to active duty in support of Desert Storm/Desert Shield. Miguel served in Southwest Asia from 1990 to 1991. After his honorable discharge, Miguel attended Century Business College obtaining a degree in Culinary Arts and began working as a chef. Miguel became a volunteer with PACTO Latino AIDS Organization providing outreach to the LGBTQ community. Miguel worked as an HIV Medical Case Manager for many years. Miguel now works providing important case management for LGBTQ seniors at The San Diego LGBT Community Center. Miguel’s other community work included AIDS Walk fundraising, volunteering for The Center’s Food Bank and Auntie Helen’s. Miguel lives with his life partner of 28 years Don and 15-year-old son Alex.

Nat Kapp (they/them), USN

Nat Kapp (they/them) is a higher education professional and former U.S. Naval Officer whose career reflects a dedication to leadership, service, and student success. Nat is a 2017 graduate of Villanova University, where they earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. They were commissioned through the NROTC program and served in the U.S. Navy from 2017 to 2021, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade. Nat’s naval career included two years aboard USS Gridley (DDG 101) as Gunnery and Ordnance Officer, leading Sailors in weapons systems maintenance, training, and operational readiness. They then completed training at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command and served as an administrator, focusing on personnel processing and ensuring smooth operations for trainees and staff. Kapp earned a Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from Georgetown University in 2022, emphasizing research on fostering a sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ veterans throughout college. They joined UC San Diego in 2021 and currently serve as Program Manager at the Student Veterans Resource Center, developing programs for military-connected students with a focus on access, equity, and success. Kapp has contributed to nonprofit and community programs supporting veterans, mental health, food security, and educational access, earning recognition for leadership, program development, and mentorship. Coming from a Navy family, their father Jack Kapp served as a Surface Warfare Officer from 1991 to 2001. Nat continues this legacy through professional and community engagement and lives in San Diego with their partner, Hannah Tolksdorf, remaining committed to fostering inclusive environments that empower individuals to thrive.

Ray Moore (he/him), USA

Corporal Ray Moore (he/him) served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1988 to 1992 as an Armor Crewman (Tanker). He was stationed on the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Korea, where he contributed to U.S. and allied defense operations. An Honor List Graduate of Basic Armor Training, Ray demonstrated discipline and leadership early in his career. His dedication and performance earned him multiple awards, including two Army Achievement Medals, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, and four Department of the Army Certificates of Achievement. Following his military service, Ray has remained committed to community and service. He has volunteered for many years with San Diego Pride and is an active member of the Metropolitan Community Church, supporting inclusion and outreach. Ray pursued higher education at San Diego Community College and Maric Career College of San Diego, building the foundation for his career in healthcare. Today, he works as a nurse at Owens Clinic, where he provides compassionate care to patients while carrying forward the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.

Todd Andrew Nelms (he/him), USN

Bio coming soon

Tom Rummel (he/him), USA

Thomas W. Rummel (he/him) was born in Burlington, WI, on July 15, 1964. He attended San Diego Christian College, earning his bachelor’s degree in counseling psychology. He began his 21-year service in the U.S. Army Reserve on January 28, 1986, earning the rank of staff sergeant. His training began with the Utility Helicopter Repair Course. During his service, four years of active duty, he attended the Retention and Transition Noncommissioned Officer Course. Rummel served his country with honor and distinction. After serving, Rummel met his partner, Douglas Plummer. He became involved with the San Diego Humane Society for eight years and was named volunteer of the month. His responsibilities included serving home-bound seniors and providing pet care for people experiencing homelessness. Today, Rummel donates free house cleaning services to cancer patients in treatment through his residential house cleaning company, Presto Cleaning. Rummel has also been serving the community by facilitating a weekly meditation for the last 11 years.