Veteran Spotlight |Rob Anderson

Veteran Spotlight: Rob Anderson’s Mission to Serve Beyond the Uniform

After serving in both the Army National Guard and Active Duty Army, Rob Anderson discovered that military life resonated with him far more than civilian life. Following his medical retirement, he channeled his energy into helping fellow veterans through Operation Charlie Bravo (OCB), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting those who’ve served.

Anderson’s journey began in 1996 when, at just 17 years old, he joined the Army National Guard through the Delayed Entry Program. Inspired by the path of his friends and the quiet legacy of his two Army veteran grandfathers, he took his first steps into military service. Becoming a combat engineer would go on to shape much of his identity.

“I loved everything in the military,” Anderson reflected. “The structure, the respect, the opportunity for growth—it gave me a path and purpose.”

After eight years of service, Anderson left the military to spend more time with his children. But in 2008, after being laid off from his factory job, he re-enlisted in active duty—recognizing that being a soldier was what he did best. This time, he served as a motor transport operator and was deployed to Iraq. Unfortunately, a serious vehicle accident in 2009 led to significant injuries and ultimately his medical retirement.

The transition to civilian life wasn’t easy. For a time, Anderson struggled to find direction until his nephew encouraged him to check out OCB in Crown Point. Though initially hesitant, he quickly found a sense of belonging.

“When I walked into OCB, I was withdrawn and had distanced myself from people,” he said. “But listening to others and helping them pulled me out of my shell.”

What began as volunteer work grew into a leadership role. Anderson now serves as OCB’s National Operations Director and Blaster Programs Director/Veteran Mentor. He supports operations, logistics, and events, working closely with OCB founder Jason Zaideman to ensure everything runs smoothly.

One of Anderson’s key focuses is improving the Blaster Program—a transportation initiative that helps veterans in need of reliable vehicles. Whether it’s repairing a veteran’s car or providing donated vehicles, the goal is simple: restore mobility and independence.

“If a veteran needs a vehicle, we work to get one into their hands. If they need repairs, we help with that too,” Anderson explained.

When he’s not serving veterans, Anderson enjoys a quiet life in DeMotte, spending time outdoors with hobbies like hunting, fishing, and motorcycling. He also treasures time with his family and traveling with his wife. Still, OCB remains a central part of his life, even becoming the foundation for activities like the Get Lost Outdoor Program, which blends his love of the outdoors with veteran support.

Anderson is passionate about reaching those who might be struggling in silence. He understands the reluctance many veterans feel when it comes to asking for help—and he wants to change that.

“OCB provides a place where veterans don’t feel like they’re begging. If you’re looking for camaraderie, support, or just someone to talk to, come to OCB,” Anderson urged. “All veterans are welcome.”