About Us

Purpose, Vision, Mission, and Values

Our Purpose: To recognize our defenders for their selfless service on behalf of our country and community by extending exclusive discounts on products, services, and other opportunities.

Our Vision: An America that is fully committed to our active military, veterans and first responders, establishing a sense of honor, respect, and support for those who have served, are currently serving and those who will serve in the future.

Our Mission: To develop a national network of businesses and organizations that recognize our Defenders service by extending discounts and other promotional offerings on products, services, and opportunities that will support and enhance the lives of our Active Military, Veterans, and First Responders.

Our Values:
  • Honesty and Integrity
  • Honoring those who serve our nation and communities
  • Respect for those who defend us and who have sacrificed so much to protect the freedoms we enjoy

Defenders Gateway Team

Carol Watanabe

Carol Watanabe

Founder / CEO
Carol retired from a successful private business and founded a charity over fifteen years ago that serves Military families. Defenders Gateway was an idea she had for several years, a way to honor Veterans and First Responders. Carol has a long history of supporting and serving Veterans families through her 501c3 charity, Little Patriots Embraced. Carol is excited to have created an all-encompassing application that will allow her to continue to serve and support our American Heroes.
Rachel Stuhlmann

Rachel Stuhlmann

VP of Regional Sales
Rachel Stuhlmann is a St. Louis native. Over the past ten years she made tennis her full time profession. Rachel competed at national levels and has traveled to perform at international tennis events. Her athleticism has given her a work ethic that sets her apart.
Having an uncle who served in Vietnam and grandfather who served in WWII, Rachel
is enthusiastic and committed to the Defenders Gateway mission.