On Friday, May 15, 2026, the Face of America: Gettysburg weekend officially commenced with its annual kick-off celebration at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Crystal City, Arlington, VA. Athletes, staff, and volunteers gathered in the Regency Ballroom for an evening of reunion, reflection, and recognition.
The evening was more than just a dinner — it was a tribute to service, sacrifice, and the enduring power of community. As guests shared a meal, they reconnected with teammates, met new friends, and, most importantly, honored the veterans and individuals whose contributions exemplify the mission of World TEAM.
Sponsored by the Osaic Foundation, Face of America, World TEAM’s largest fundraising event, supports our military adaptive athletes and funds programs that promote inclusion and adventure for individuals of all abilities. This year, thanks to the dedication of our athletes and supporters, over $750,000 was raised.
Recognizing Our Fundraising Champions
We proudly recognized the top fundraising teams and individuals who made this achievement possible:
Top 3 Teams:
- Team P.I.N.K. – $87,326
- Team Patriot – $72,000
- Team Mac’s Marauders – $69,730
Top 3 Individual Fundraisers:
- Gregory Gadson – $59,670
- Mike Beezley – $27,975
- Brian Mitchell – $22,091
Service Member of the Year: Gregory Gadson
In a special moment of the evening, we proudly announced the recipient of the Service Member of the Year Award — created to honor an individual whose lifetime of service, both in uniform and in the FOA community, embodies the essence of patriotism and the World TEAM mission.
Our honoree, Col. Gregory Gadson (USA, Ret.), has lived a life of extraordinary service. A four-year letterman and co-captain of the Army Black Knights football team at West Point, Gadson went on to serve as Commander of the 2-32 Field Artillery Battalion in Baghdad, Iraq. In 2007, while returning to base following a memorial service, a roadside bomb destroyed his vehicle, costing him both legs and injuring his right arm. He was evacuated to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he took up hand cycling to maintain his physical fitness.
His first Face of America came just two years later, and since then the Virginia native has inspired veterans and able-bodied participants alike through his regular involvement in Face of America and Adventure TEAM Challenge Colorado — both as a competitor and as a volunteer photographer. His reach extends to the screen as well: many will recognize him from his role in the 2012 Universal Pictures science fiction film Battleship, a performance that has brought his story of resilience to audiences worldwide.
Presenting the Service Member of the Year Award was Major General Rodney O. Anderson (USA, Ret.), Gadson’s longtime mentor and friend. A highly decorated combat veteran and Jumpmaster, MG Anderson dedicated 33 years to the United States Army, serving in key leadership roles within the 82nd Airborne Division and the 18th Airborne Corps. His deployments spanned Grenada, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf, and his career culminated in roles as Director of Army Force Management and Deputy Commander of Fort Bragg. Today, he continues his legacy as a “Soldier for Life,” channeling his passion into mentoring transitioning service members and their families as they navigate civilian careers.
Witnessing the bond between these two men was deeply moving. Their brotherhood was palpable, and the room grew quiet with emotion. We may never fully comprehend the sacrifices our nation’s heroes have endured, but we can honor their service — and offer them our deepest, most sincere gratitude.
As the Face of America weekend unfolded, it did more than mark a cycling event — it honored those who have served, uplifted those who continue to serve, and reminded all of us what it means to lead with heart. We are profoundly grateful to Col. Gadson, who remains a dedicated rider, top fundraiser, global ambassador, board member, and tireless advocate for adaptive sports.
