Ian Diaz - Stark Naked

I first heard about Stark when my sister participated in and won Stark Naked 2017. Watching her hard work, dedication and money raised over the course of 5 months truly inspired me and now it’s my turn to take on the challenge! The charity that I have chosen to represent is the Semper Fi Fund.  

Growing up in a military family, I was raised with a strong sense of patriotism for this great nation and an even deeper admiration for the men and women who put their lives on the line for our everyday freedoms. When I was 12 years old, I joined an organization at Camp Pendleton called the Young Marines. Once I graduated from high school and went off to college at the University of Arizona, I participated in the Marine Corps Platoon Leadership Course or PLC. Military warriors and their families will always hold a special place in my heart.  

In the spring of 2003, Operation Iraqi Freedom was well underway and the first wave of wounded Marines and Sailors began arriving home to the States. It was at that time that a dedicated group of spouses at Camp Pendleton began to organize welcome home activities for the soldiers. They named the organization The Semper Fi Fund and the group has grown from there.  

“Proven. Effective. Immediate. We are dedicated to providing immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to combat wounded, critically ill and catastrophically injured members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.” 

I can never repay them for their service, however, anything I can do to give back toward our brave and honorable service men, women and their families, is a small token of my deep and sincere appreciation for their courageous acts of service for the country that I love.  

Please join me in thanking and supporting our wounded soldiers.