Welcome to VOIEF

About the Founder

Kurt is the Founder and National Director of Veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom (VOIEF). He served in active duty (Enlisted) Air Force in the Aerial Port career field (1986-1990) serving on a support team during the attack on the Naval ship USS Stark and seeing action in Panama during Operation Just Cause. In 1990, Kurt transferred to the Air Force Reserves then serving in Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In 2000 he cross-trained to become a C-130 Loadmaster. During his flying career, Kurt and his crew were held captive in a country in South America in 2004. In 2005 Kurt was deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom where he flew numerous combat missions with nearly 300 combat flying hours. Kurt's father, James Schwab, served in the Marines in the 1950's during the cold war. He passed away in 2006.

After leaving the Air Force in 2007, Kurt found it difficult to adjust back to civilian life and still does. Not knowing anything about the VA system until 2009, he founded VOIEF. VOIEF is dedicated to helping our Desert Storm and Iraqi and Afghanistan troops, veterans, and their families for a short time with problems incurred. Kurt stays very busy and enjoys meeting new people and his fellow comrades across the country.

The Veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF) Organization was thought of mid 2008. Kurt Schwab, Founder and Desert Storm, Iraqi and Afghanistan Veteran, noticed there were few organizations in existence to assist Desert Storm, OIF/OEF Veterans. I have also noticed that numerous Veterans who have trouble coping are having second thoughts going to the VA because they don't want to be a bother to anyone.

I want this Organization to be a safe haven for these Veterans so they can openly talk with their comrades who have had similar experiences. This organization will not only help those who have already returned, but also those who are yet to come home.

Today, we hear of Veterans committing suicide because they are unable to cope with their families, their friends, or general living due to always being on edge. Our organization will try to step in and help deter any further problems the Veteran encounters.

Our intent is to provide help, support, and direction for all returning veterans who need access to resources or any problems they may encounter. We want to help them cope with any issues he or she may have while trying to transition back to family and civilian life.