Hero Spotlight: Liz Hensel
You all have come to know Liz Hensel through her months as the Content Coordinator of Neighbors of Courthouse, so we found it fitting that we only send her off on her next adventure with her own well-deserved spotlight.
As a relatively new military spouse, I first came across Liz’s name because of my own family’s difficulties getting our dog, Murray, to Italy with us. So you can call me biased, but I have had a front-row seat to what she’s accomplished since I first read about Leave No Paws Behind during our moving obstacles in the summer of 2020.
One of Liz's most remarkable achievements is her organization, Leave No Paws Behind, and her tireless advocacy for military families and their pets. For five years, she lobbied for the inclusion of pet transportation in PCS funding, culminating in the passage of the Pet Reimbursement Act in the 2023 NDAA budget. Saying that taking your pet with you overseas is stressful is quite an understatement. I’m not being hyperbolic when I tell you that by the end of Murray’s journey, both my husband and I were physically ill. The relief from both the mental and financial burden that has now been lifted due to her efforts is unfathomable and hard to articulate for those who haven’t experienced it.
Liz's unwavering determination and perseverance will help ensure that military families no longer face financial burdens– or at least as large of a financial burden– or separation from their beloved pets during relocations—a legacy that will benefit countless families for years to come.
As if that advocacy itself wasn’t a full-time job, Liz wears multiple other hats as a mom, spouse, life-long learner, writer, entrepreneur, podcast host, volunteer, and now doctor (and, to be honest, I’m probably forgetting three or four other things here). A Marine Corps spouse and veteran herself, Liz's journey embodies the spirit of service and sacrifice that defines the military community.
Since becoming a Marine Corps spouse, Liz has been an active and engaged member of her unit's community, demonstrating exemplary leadership in many ways. Liz's dedication knows no bounds, from volunteering and conducting workshops to cooking for Marines and sending deployment care packages. However, her profound commitment to supporting fellow spouses, particularly during deployments with the Marine Security Augmentation Unit, truly sets her apart.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by spouses of rapidly deploying units, Liz took it upon herself to create an "unofficial" guide to surviving the Quantico duty station. She sends weekly emails to check in with spouses and hosts regular coffee dates, providing vital support and camaraderie during uncertain times.
Through her proactive leadership and genuine compassion, Liz ensures that no spouse feels alone or forgotten.
Beyond her unit, Liz's involvement in the military community is extensive and impactful. As a LINKS mentor and USO volunteer, she educates and uplifts new spouses while bringing joy to veterans and retirees through her work as a Pin-Ups for Vets Ambassador. Additionally, Liz spearheaded the "Cookies for Troops" initiative, rallying her neighbors to bake treats for Marines stationed at Quantico during the holidays—a simple gesture that brings immeasurable comfort and joy to those far from home.
Yet, Liz's advocacy extends even further. Inspired by her own journey of healing from a traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress, she will use her new Doctorate in Acupuncture to attain her goal of bringing holistic modalities to the military community. And I do not doubt that Liz will be a leading voice in changing that for our service members as well.
Through her vulnerability and willingness to share her story, Liz encourages others to seek help and embrace their struggles without shame or stigma. Because of all this and more, she’s been nominated as an AFI Military Spouse of the Year nominee. As of our publication deadline, she was chosen as the Base Nominee for Quantico. And hopefully, by the time she’s reading this– surprise, by the way, Liz!-- she’ll be a finalist or will have won the honor.
I know she’ll do phenomenal things with the platform if chosen as AFI’s Military Spouse of the Year, because I’ve already seen her do phenomenal things. I honestly don’t know where she finds the time– or, rather, how she makes the time– but I’m glad she does. I am just one of thousands who will be impacted by her efforts and am just genuinely appreciative and absolutely floored by her persistence. Like many, I stand in awe of what she’s accomplished, and I can’t wait to see what she does next.
She’ll continue to inspire others, to advocate for change, and to make a difference at the highest levels. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the “service before self” mantra. Liz Hensel is not just a hero; she is an extraordinary force for good in the military community and beyond. Thank you, Liz, and best of luck on your next endeavor and adventure!
