The Team

An endeavor such as that undertaken by the JFK CV-67 Memorial Foundation, Inc. could not be accomplished without the support of talented and dedicated individuals with breadth of experience in both the military and business arenas.  The Foundation has attracted an esteemed Board of Directors, advisors and staff whose backgrounds combine to provide invaluable direction and expertise to this project.  Their commitment and direct participation in the development increases the likelihood of the Foundation’s success.

Paul Troxell, President, Treasurer and Director:  Prior to the sale of his company, SJ Metals, in June, 2007, Mr. Troxell worked for over thirty years in the aerospace industry.  He formed SJ Metals which grew into a valued supplier of specialty metals to the aerospace and defense industries.  Mr. Troxell’s dedication to Save the JFK lies in his commitment to “give back” to the source of his business success.  Mr. Troxell, the Founder of the JFK CV-67 Memorial Foundation, Inc. is a Member of Broward Navy Days, an Honorary Plank Owner of the USS Bainbridge (DDG-96), and an Honorary Plank Owner of the USS Gridley (DDG-101).  Read a Conversation with the Founder.

Joseph R. Millsaps, Vice-President and Director:  Mr. Millsaps served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1966, with the rank of First Lieutenant at the time of his discharge.  He graduated from the Officer’s Candidate Training School in Fort Benning, Georgia.  After his service, Mr. Millsaps worked in the private sector where he helped develop a successful real estate and property management business.  Mr. Millsaps has been extensively involved in the south Florida community including, among many others, leading positions as the Senior Director of Fleet Week USA, President and Chairman of the Board of Broward Navy Days, Inc., and a member of Broward County Council Navy League of the United States.  His many honors include The Distinguished Public Service Award from the U.S. Navy, The Distinguished Public Service Award from the U.S. Coast Guard and induction into the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame. 

Garry Murphy, Director:  Mr. Murphy served on the Air Craft Carrier USS Intrepid (CV-11) in Vietnam and around the world.  After leaving active duty, Mr. Murphy served on the Naval Reserve and on the Suffolk City Police Department in New York.  Since his retirement he has dedicated much of his time to participation in the Navy League and as Naval Liaison and Director of Broward Navy Days, Inc.

Rick Hoffman, U.S.N. (Ret.), Navy Liaison:  Rick Hoffman retired as a Captain following over twenty eight years’ in Navy surface warfare.  He commanded two ships, USS De Wert (FFG 45) and USS Hue City (CG 66).  Capt. Hoffman served as the Operations Officer with Enterprise Battle Group while deployed to the Arabian Gulf during Desert Storm.  His other postings included U.S. Central Command, the CNO Staff in Washington D.C. and further shipboard positions. Capt. Hoffman retired in 2003 with numerous personal and unit awards.  He then formed Orion Solutions, LLC in Jacksonville Florida which provides a wide range of management, leadership and process solutions to companies working in both the commercial and defense industries.  Capt. Hoffman graduated from The Citadel, the Naval Postgraduate School and the National War College.  He has joined the Save The JFK team to provide counsel on maritime and Naval matters, to coordinate the critical Navy elements, and to provide support on issues of public affairs.