Email Us: avboga1775@gmail.com
Call Us: +1 (661) 506-5787
About Boots on the Ground Alliance
“The Boots on the Ground Alliance aims to empower individuals through leadership, education, and community engagement—promoting transparency, integrity. We foster community cohesion through direct physical presence and collaborative events, working alongside other organizations and with the community to promote positive psychology and wellness—particularly among veterans—by leveraging the PERMAH model and facilitating networking opportunities, knowledge sharing, and mutual support.”
Meet the BOGA Team
Our exceptional team at Boots on the Ground Alliance (BOGA) is united by a steadfast commitment to serving and honoring veterans. Drawing on diverse skills and perspectives, we work collaboratively to create meaningful experiences and provide impactful support that fosters successful transitions for veterans and strengthens our community. Each member of our board deeply understands BOGA’s mission—identifying critical gaps, applying forward-thinking solutions, and fostering strong partnerships to ensure lasting positive change.
Alejandro Castillo MPA
Founder of BOGA and certified in Applied Positive Psychology, Alejandro Castillo brings his work a unique blend of resilience, leadership, and compassion. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran with six years of service, he has carried forward the discipline, integrity, and commitment to excellence instilled during his military career into his life as a business owner, entrepreneur, and community advocate.
With extensive experience working in multiple non-profits, Alejandro has been deeply committed to assisting Veterans by creating vital linkages to housing and essential resources. Recognizing unmet needs in the veteran community, he founded his non-profit to address gaps, foster collaboration, and build alliances that create lasting change.
Guided by a progressive mindset, Alejandro believes in the power of physical presence—showing up, standing alongside others, and working directly with those in need. His mission is driven by a strong belief that when we unite our strengths, share resources, and act purposefully, we can overcome challenges and create thriving, supportive communities.
Passionate, determined, and grounded in positivity, he continues to inspire those around him to think bigger, work together, and never lose sight of the difference one dedicated person can make.
Angela Allen
BIO
Ruben Galindo
BIO
Ronald Gomez
Ronald Gomez is an accredited VA claims agent and proud U.S. Army veteran who has dedicated nearly a decade to helping fellow veterans access the benefits they’ve earned. After serving as an 11B Infantryman from 2011 to 2014, Ronald transitioned into veteran advocacy, using his firsthand experience to guide others through the complexities of VA compensation and pension claims.
He recently earned his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from California State University, Northridge in May 2025, and is currently exploring graduate school opportunities to deepen his impact in the veteran services space.
Today, Ronald continues his mission through his work with a nonprofit organization that supports veterans across the country. With a unique blend of military service, academic knowledge, and professional accreditation, Ronald is committed to empowering those who’ve served our nation.
ambassadors:
Ambassadors in the Boots on the Ground Alliance (Boga) serve as community liaisons who help share information, foster collaboration, and build connections between organizations, stakeholders, and the public. Their strictly voluntary role supports awareness, engagement, and education around Boga’s mission. Ambassadors do not make policy decisions or engage in activities that could create a conflict of interest. Instead, they act as bridges for communication and collaboration, amplifying Boga’s message and encouraging broader participation across diverse communities.
rick valenzuela
Army infantry Veteran. Served in Baghdad, Iraq, in 2008. Currently the Veteran Service Officer for Los Angeles County
alejandro tralasvina mpa
Alex is the proud Owner of Faith & Valor, where he brings lifetime of service, leadership, and dedication to community. A retired Marine Corps Master Sergeant, Alex embodies integrity, discipline, and resilience in every endeavor.
Born in Downey and raised in Pico Rivera, Alex is a proud alumnus of St. John Bosco and California State University, Northridge (CSUN), where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. He went on to complete a Master’s degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Leadership and Management—an academic foundation that, combined with his distinguished military background, has equipped him to lead with vision and effectiveness.
Alex began his career as a Public Adjuster in 2002, even while actively serving in the Marine Corps Infantry across both active duty and reserve roles. Throughout numerous deployments in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF), he honed a skill set defined by perseverance, strategic thinking, and a steadfast commitment to mission success. Upon retiring from the military, Alex seamlessly transitioned to serving his community full-time as an advocate for policyholders.
With over two decades of experience, Alex has developed a proven process for navigating insurance claims with precision and care. His unique perspective as both a seasoned Adjuster and a Marine allows him to secure rightful benefits for his clients while providing guidance rooted in trust and integrity.
Today, Alex is recognized not only for delivering exceptional results but also for consistently exceeding expectations. His reputation reflects his unwavering dedication to protecting families and communities, ensuring that every client he represents receives the highest level of advocacy and service.