Annie Nelson

Orange County, CA

Annie Nelson

Orange County, CA

Minnesota native, then Chicago, then to the west coast Annie received a Theatre Arts scholarship to Long Beach State, studied at the American Film Institute, from a family sports background, found a niche in sports broadcasting & special events. A chance pen pal friendship w/a wounded Marine in 04 led to an epiphany changing Annie Nelson's life forever. For the past 8yrs (going strong), Annie has dedicated her life to raising awareness for US veterans of all era's. Successfully combating PTSD herself in 1994 after being beaten by passengers while in flight working as a flight attendant , then surviving 5 seperate concussions & a massive life threatening brain tumor August 2010, 10.5 hr surgery leaving her deaf in one ear & on a 2+ year journey to recover, (2013 diagnosed w 2nd small tumor) she relates to & inspires our wounded warriors, their family members, veterans & others by her real life battles. She truly has walked the talk, her story ignites a flame of hope within all she comes in contact with. Ms. Nelson shares time & conversation with the our special forces teams, Marines, Soldiers, Navy seamen, Airman and reservists all across the country. Annie's also involved in reaching out to our nations homeless veterans. Whether she is spending time with the children of our fallen heroes, teaching school children patriotism with her Patriotic Pups or taking veterans on outings she is always embedded with our troops & veterans here at home. Annie's presence, kind words & story have also been witnessed in our nation's capitol. Her travels (usually at her own expense) have taken her from coast to coast. Annie's passion & compassion have drawn movie stars, TV stars, political figures & a plethora of sports celebrities to join her crusade. Thanks to Annie, they offer their time & energy. As often as possible, Annie's dogs, Eddy & Hazel (Rhodesian Ridge backs), accompany her on her mission. Their keen non-verbal communication bring a comfort that is beyond words. Our vets, troops & kids truly love 'em (they've become Rock Stars)

Founder The American Soldier Network 501c3 Charity Creator "American Heroes"TV seriesColumnist US Veterans Magazine, "American Heroes" column

2012 Actress Jane Seymour & Husband Director James Keach honored Annie w/Open Hearts Foundation 1st Open Heart Patriot Award

  • Education
    • BA Communications Cal State Long Beach
    • Certificate in Non Profit Fund Raising University California Irvine