Board of Directors & Executive Team
Tom Burkett
Chairman | Founder | Executive Director
Executive Team
Fundraising Committee
Email: tom@trooprewards.org
Bio: Burkett Asset Mgmt., Inc. (BAM) CEO | Founder – January 1998 to present. BAM is a holding company that operates various companies that specialize in the consumer service’s industry.
MacDill AFB, Tampa, FL | Honorary Commander, Class of 2015–2017
Tom’s father, Frank S. Burkett Jr., served in the US Navy during the Korean War aboard the USS Canaberra and the USS Rich as a Petty Officer 1st Class. His grandfather, Frank S. Burkett Sr., served in the US Army on the Mexican border during WWI.
CHIEF MASTER SGT. SCOTT BLAKE, USAF RET.
President | Board Member | Chair – Program Services Committee | Selection Sub-Committee
Chief Master Sergeant Scott Blake retired from the USAF after 30 years of Honorable service to his country as a Security Forces Manager.
His background includes various duties at the unit and MAJCOM levels. His assignments include bases in California, Missouri, New Jersey and Florida. The Chief also served overseas in the Philippines, United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, Southwest Asia, Kosovo and performed PHOENIX RAVEN aircraft security at multiple overseas locations.
Chief Blake graduated with Honors from the American Military University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice.
He also enjoys his days with his family and walking his dog, Buddy, when not volunteering and serving as President of Troop Rewards.
DEBORAH BURKETT
Co-Founder | Secretary | Vice President | Board Member
Director of Strategic Accounts
Merz North America – May 2018 – Present
MacDill AFB, Tampa, Fl | Honorary Commander | Class of 2017-2019
Deborah’s father, Daniel Galeoto, served as a Senior Airmen in the US Air Force during the Vietam War at an airbase in High Wycombe, U.K.
LEAH WELLS
Board Member, Director
Leah is the dedicated Events Manager at Wild Rover Brewing Company, in Tampa, Fl.
With her years of experience of creating memorable and successful events at the Wild Rover, including weddings, fundraisers, and concerts, the highlight of her role is organizing the Wild Rover’s annual Film Festival during Veterans Day Weekend, a meaningful initiative that champions both emerging filmmakers and impactful veteran-focused charities. Having worked closely with Troop Rewards events for several years, she is passionate about their work in supporting active duty families and is eager to see their continued growth and impact.
JESSICA SCHWARZKOPF
Troop Rewards Ambassador | Board Member | Fundraising Committee
Film Producer at Hero Films, LLC. Currently working on producing and filming a major film production covering the life of her father, General H. Norman Schwarzkopf.
General H. Norman Schwarzkopf was involved with Troop Reward’s first reward to a Private 1st Class Army soldier back in June 2009 and Jessica is now Troop Reward’s Ambassador.