Joseph S. McClain – Chief Executive Officer
On September 3, 2015 Joseph S. (Joe) McClain became the new Help Heal Veterans Chief Executive Officer.
A veteran of the U.S. Navy with nearly thirty years of service, McClain has experience leading large, complex, multi-national and diverse organizations. He is a results-oriented strategic leader with a passion for service.
The son of a career U.S. Army veteran, Mr. McClain is a United States Naval Academy graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering. He holds a Master of Arts in History from the University of Alabama and a Master of Arts in National and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.
In the military, McClain served in a variety of operational command and staff positions, including numerous overseas deployments flying the carrier-based S-3B Viking aircraft. He served as Director, Congressional Liaison for the U. S. House of Representatives for the Secretary of the Navy. In this role, he was responsible for developing and implementing the Navy’s legislative strategy. He also served as Commodore of Sea Control Wing Atlantic, leading approximately 1300 personnel in seven squadrons with 60 combat aircraft. He has held leadership positions as a commander, mentor and manager in various units including leading the “Blue Wolves” of Sea Control Squadron 35 (VS-35) as Commanding Officer.
After retiring from the military, McClain served as President of the Beer Institute in Washington, D.C. As a national advocate for the brewing industry, Mr. McClain represented America’s brewers and beer importers. He also served as a strategic advisor for a bi-partisan consulting group and is a National Director for the Navy League.
McClain is passionate about the veteran and military communities. A third generation service member, he knows the struggles and challenges veterans and their families face, and he is committed to improving their care and quality of life.
“I am fully committed to serving my fellow veterans and making a positive impact in their lives,” said McClain. “I am extremely proud to lead this great organization into the future. It is my intent to help bring about changes that will allow us to meet our goals in a strategic, meaningful way, and continue to enrich the lives of those we serve.”
A native of Omaha, Nebraska, McClain lives in San Diego, California with his wife Deanna. They have three children; their oldest is on active duty with the U.S. Navy. In his spare time, McClain enjoys surfing, martial arts and playing guitar.