Alexander Zickafoose, born in Kalamazoo Michigan, serves the U.S Army in the Michigan Army National Guard. An infantryman, with the 125th Infantry Battalion, Alex saw weight of experience and hardship his fellow service members hold.

In 2024, Alex founded Bows and Joes, a nonprofit charity dedicated to supporting veterans. Motivated by the loss of commands and the lack of accessible mental health resources, Bows and Joes is determined to transform the phenomenon of veteran’s suicide into a purpose.

Alex, along with fellow service members, co-founder Charles Zinn, and mentor Darin Alexander, Bows and Joes advocates for veteran mental health.

Alex, married with children, finds strength in his family and his mission to ensure no veteran feels forgotten. The Bows and Joes mantra, “one warrior at a time” inspires both his team and the veterans they serve.

I enlisted in the Army National Guard in 2015 and have spent my entire career in the infantry. After several years of service, I took a break from late 2021 to 2024. After my time away, I made the decision to re-enlist and continue my career in the military.

I grew up in Michigan, where a love for the outdoors has always been a big part of my life. On December 31, 2015, during holiday block leave from basic training, I married my best friend. Now, we’re raising two amazing kids together and building the life we always dreamed of.

I’ve been bow hunting for about five years now, and it’s become a huge part of who I am. What draws me to it is the spiritual side, the purity of the hunt, and the true challenge it offers. Bow hunting isn’t just a sport to me; it’s a way to stay grounded, focused, and connected to something bigger.

Starting Bows & Joes was a natural step. I wanted to help other veterans experience the same sense of peace, purpose, and family that I’ve found through both the military and bow hunting.

I served in the U.S. Army, beginning in Military Intelligence before continuing as an infantryman with the Michigan Army National Guard. After more than 20 years of service, including two overseas deployments, I retired in 2022.

Throughout my career, I witnessed the unseen wounds many veterans carry home from war. I believe no veteran should have to fight life’s toughest battles alone, which is why the mission of Bows and Joes means so much to me.

I work in cybersecurity for a local healthcare system. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me with a bow in hand. Archery has become one of God’s greatest gifts in my life, bringing peace, strengthening my faith, and introducing me to lifelong friends.

I’m blessed with an amazing wife and four children who keep me grounded and remembering what matters most. My hope is that every veteran who connects with Bows and Joes finds hope, healing, and the reminder that they never have to walk alone.