This May, as we celebrate both Travel Advisor Appreciation Month and National Military Appreciation Month, Disney Destinations is proud to salute travel professionals who have served in the United States Armed Forces or support the military community through their work in the travel industry.

Today, we’re shining a spotlight on some of these inspiring individuals, showcasing their incredible contributions to the military and their dedication to helping to create unforgettable vacation memories. We’re proud to celebrate their service to our country, their ongoing commitment to the military community and their passion for helping make vacation dreams come true!

David Lamb, Director of Tickets & Travel, MacDill Air Force Base

David Lamb is a third-generation military veteran whose 22-year career with the U.S. Air Force took him around the world. From building tent cities to supporting service members through Moral, Welfare and Recreation programs, David’s military experience cultivated a passion for service and connection. Today, he brings that same spirit to his current role, training his team not just to sell tickets, but to create unforgettable experiences.  

Born into a military family, David’s father was once stationed at McCoy Air Force Base which is now Orlando International Airport. As a child, they lived “down the road” from Walt Disney World Resort. One of his earliest memories is waiting up all night for his family’s first trip to the Magic Kingdom in 1971. Through the years he has continued to share that same magic with his sons and now his grandchildren. David says, “It’s funny how life can make a full circle back to your beginning.”

Whether in uniform or behind a travel desk, David’s mission remains the same – to serve with heart and help others create lasting memories.

Kathy Geiger, Travel Advisor, MEI Travel

Kathy Geiger proudly served for four years in the U.S. Marine Corps where the discipline she learned laid the foundation for the strong work ethic and pride that guides her work today as a travel advisor. Though she no longer works directly with the military, she continues to support her local military community and works with many retired service members as clients.

One of her fondest Disney memories comes from her time stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station El Toro in California – not far from the Disneyland Resort. Kathy recalls being able to watch the fireworks at Disneyland Park from the softball field bleachers on the base. “I always felt a level of comfort knowing my favorite park was so close,” she says. Today that magic lives on as she relives the wonder of Disney through the eyes of her grandchildren during frequent visits to the Disneyland Resort.

Mark Kechula, Luxury Travel Advisor, Hi Ho Vacations

Mark Kechula served an impressive 30-years with the U.S. Navy, rising from junior enlisted ranks to Chief Warrant Officer in the Aviation Maintenance Community. His service spanned deployments aboard aircraft carriers in the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf. The Navy’s core values – Honor, Courage and Commitment – continue to shape his work today as a Luxury Travel Advisor with Hi Ho Vacations, where he’s spent over 12 years helping to deliver unforgettable travel experiences.

Mark credits his military background for the skills that now guide success – strategic planning, clear communication and a deep sense of responsibility. He is particularly proud of helping families plan Disney Cruise Line vacations. “Following an established process and curating a vacation from start-to-finish aligns with my military missions,” Mark shares. He says the feedback he receives from his clients motivates him to continue pursuing his dream occupation. For Mark, serving others – whether through the military or magical getaways – is a lifelong calling.  

Ricky Sesco, Air Force Information, Tickets and Travel Program Manager

Ricky Sesco proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years beginning as a Construction Heavy Equipment Operator before working as a Production Control Specialist. Most of his career was spent in Germany, with additional assignments in California and Texas. Since retiring from active duty, Ricky has continued to serve the military community at the Air Forces Services Center as the Air Force Information, Tickets and Travel Program Manager – a role he has held for nearly 25 years.

Ricky credits his military background with giving him a unique perspective on the needs of service members and their families, making him a trusted resource for both military personnel and industry partners. Overall, Ricky says his Air Force career has made him who he is and given him lifelong friends and adopted families. In addition, he says his longstanding collaboration with the Disney Military Sales Team has given him the chance to experience a lot of magic across our Disney Destinations. Ricky shares, “My 24 years have been very rewarding mainly due to Disney.”

Ruthann Szente, Travel Advisor, MEI Travel

As a dedicated travel advisor and a proud military spouse of an Air National Guard pilot, Ruthann Szente has learned how to adapt under pressure. From navigating last-minute plans to embracing time apart, she deeply understands the importance of making the most of family time, especially after long deployments.

Ruthann says her family’s Disney trips have given them something to look forward to when her husband returns from deployment or extended training away from home. She brings that insight and her own personal Disney experiences to every itinerary she plans for her clients. Ruthann shares, “We are definitely a Disney family – both parks and cruises. My favorite memories are seeing my kids meet their favorite characters for the first time.”

Anne Rodriguez, Information Tickets and Tours Manager, Marine Corps Community Services, Camp Pendleton

Anne Rodriguez began her career in service to the military community as a civilian employee at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, later transferring to Camp Pendleton. Starting in the accounting office, she quickly advanced to become the Information Tickets and Tours Manager with Marine Corps Community Services, a role focused on enhancing the quality of life for Marines and their families.

Driven by deep pride of her country and a strong family legacy of military service, Anne chose a civilian path that allowed her to support the mission of the Marine Corps in impactful ways. Through her years of service, she has developed essential skills that she uses to lead her team and provide exceptional service to her military clients. For Anne, serving the military community isn’t just a career – it’s a lifelong source of purpose, pride and connection. She says, “Serving as a civilian employee for the military has given me an opportunity to serve a military community that I am deeply grateful for.”

Veronica Barrientos, Disney Military Ticket Seller, USAF Travis Air Force Base

Veronica Barrientos proudly supported the military community as a spouse for 21 years and continues that service today as a Disney Military Ticket Seller in the Information Tickets and Tours office at USAF Travis Air Force Base. Her firsthand experience as a military spouse gives her a unique insight as she helps fellow military families plan unforgettable vacations.

For Veronica, being part of the military community has given her lifelong friendships, meaningful challenges and cherished memories. One of her most treasured moments was reuniting with her husband and sons at the Disneyland Resort in 2024 after several years apart. It was an experience that perfectly captured the joy and togetherness she now helps other families create every day.