Honoring Service and Sacrifice: Meet John Dzara, Hope For The Warriors’ March Volunteer of the Month

Krispy Kreme donuts have a specific smell. An aroma that most can recognize in an instant. They smell like home and taste even better. Gooey. Sugary. Perfection.

If John Dzara is volunteering at the Hope For The WarriorsMilitary Lounge at the Jacksonville Airport, traveling service members get to enjoy this tasty treat before navigating to the next steps of their military careers. On his days at the Lounge, John makes a point to get up early to pick up dozens of donated donuts. He doesn’t have to do this, he wants to. It’s a small gesture that makes a big difference for the men and women in uniform that he appreciates so much.

For John, volunteering at the Hope For The Warriors Military Lounge at the Jacksonville Airport isn’t just a way to give back, it’s a deeply personal calling. After a lifetime devoted to public service, John remains committed to supporting the next generation of service members. As a vital presence in the Lounge, he’s often the first friendly face new Marines encounter, eager to offer a warm welcome, guidance, and a listening ear.

John’s military journey began in 1965 when he was drafted, taking an oath to protect the country and the Constitution. During his time in the service, John had the solemn honor of supporting military funerals, a duty that left a profound impact on him. This role required unwavering dedication and deep respect for fallen service members and their families. John recalls how the experience instilled in him a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members and the importance of honoring their legacy.

After serving in the military, John continued his dedication to service by joining the Philadelphia Police Department. Throughout his law enforcement career, he had the unique opportunity to meet notable figures, including Elvis Presley and Queen Elizabeth II, memorable encounters that highlighted the diverse experiences of a life devoted to public service. John’s work in the police department deepened his understanding of sacrifice, duty, and the importance of supporting those who serve. “I believe I was meant to be a public servant,” John said. “I didn’t know it at the time, but looking back, it makes sense.”

After retiring from the police department, John’s passion for service never wavered. He found his way to Hope For TheWarriors through Colonel John Kopka and General Bob Dickerson, who introduced him to the organization during a church service. When the opportunity to volunteer at the Lounge came up, he made a silent promise to himself to make every young service member feel appreciated, supported, and valued.

For John, Tuesdays are long but rewarding at the Lounge. From 2pm to 6pm, the Lounge is a hive of activity, with flights bringing in waves of young Marines returning from leave or reporting for duty. John and his fellow volunteers welcome them, organize their gear, and help them prepare for the next step of their journey.

“It’s organized chaos for the first 15 or 20 minutes,” John laughed. “But then everyone gets settled, and it runs like a small business. Everyone knows their part, and we work together to make sure these young men and women feel supported.”

John understands what these Marines are going through, leaving home for the first time, adjusting to military life, and forming bonds that feel more like family. “I have grandchildren older than these young Marines,” he said. “They stick together like a pack of wolves until they get to their permanent assignment.”

John’s advice to new service members is simple but powerful: “Do what they tell you, keep your mouth shut, and follow orders. Once you’re a United States Marine, the standards are always going to be higher for you. You’ll be held to a higher standard, and you must live up to it.”