Veteran Voices: Exclusive Interview with Sandy Blair

Sandy served 12 years on active duty in the United States Air Force, then 4 years as a Peace Officer, and has now created another avenue to further serve her community. It was not that long ago when the devastating news of a medical discharge from the Air Force was eminent for her.

Sandy obtained her real estate license and uses a portion of her commissions from real estate sales to take massive action on actualizing her supersized dream of starting a nonprofit to help women veterans regain stability after military service. As the founder of Operation WEBS, Sandy is now providing sustainable housing solutions to those facing homelessness.

How did you finally arrive at your clear sense of purpose?

This is continually evolving for me! There are so many things in life that I want to do and believe I would be good at. As doors open and close and opportunities present themselves, I think being adaptable to those changes is what has helped to reveal the path God has for me. There was a time not too long ago when I finally arrived at the realization and accepted that my experiences during and after the military were not punishment for the choices I made, but rather they were the experiences which revealed and led me to my sense of purpose. I think when we are faced with difficult decisions or adverse situations, we tend to ask "why me, Lord?" I know I did! Now I reflect on those moments and can connect the dots to say, ohhh THAT's my why. I think that realizing and accepting my why is what helped me to feel so passionate about sacrificing everything to help other women in need.

You are lifting others up and providing not only safe housing, but a sense of home. Is this something you felt you were always on the path towards doing?

Yes and no! There is no greater feeling to me than the gratitude and satisfaction I get from helping others, especially those receptive and appreciative of the assistance. When I meet or talk with a veteran and she is hankering for a reset, I feel like I’ve stepped into her shoes; I can relate. Immediately, I want to help her in her fight to regain balance and a sense of self-worth and purpose! I know why it’s necessary for me to do what I am doing, but the how, when, and where was - and sometimes still - is a complete mystery. My life hasn’t had the stability and financial security to take on this magnanimous dream, but here I am. The seed has been planted and I’m determined to give it my all to nurture it, that it may produce fruit to nourish and sustain others. When I first saw tiny homes on wheels (THOW) in 2013, I thought to myself, I wish I knew of this so many years ago. This could have been a viable solution to bridge my transition from military to civilian life. The possibility of providing such an opportunity to my veteran sisters today gives me hope and determination to be that resource in such a time of uncertainty, rejection, and despair that one may experience. So, yes! I always knew I wanted to help my veteran sisters in their transition through housing stability. The means of how, and when and where continue to be a challenge and continues to evolve.

What advice can you give others seeking their own calling?

Be open and receptive to what YOUR life experiences have taught you. Watch out for fear; it’s a dream killer! The small achievements will keep you highly motivated during the pursuit, so be relentless and express your gratitude for the people, lessons, mistakes, rewards, and opportunities throughout the journey. Know your WHY! Keep expanding the dream because love and growth have no limits, only the ones we set for ourselves.

Operation WEBS (OpWEBS) is continuously seeking growth opportunities and resources for women veterans. As we bushwhack our way from COVID-19, we intend to host fundraising events and participate in volunteer opportunities when and where we can. Several vacancies at the Executive Board and Committees levels are available for anyone with the passion, time, and skills willing to make a two-year commitment. All seats at the board and committee levels are volunteer, non-paid hours only! We finally have a breakthrough after four years of relentless pursuit which will be announced at this year’s main event: our Gala!

Planning has begun for our 5th Annual OpWEBS Gala in September 2022. Volunteers are needed and welcome to join the team as this year promises to have some momentous announcements and memorable guest speakers and entertainers!

Thanks to an invitation by founder Bruce Sundberg, we now have a booth at the Central Coast Cruise Nights Car Club on the 3rd Saturday of each month from 6pm-8pm, March-October 2022 next to the DJ (volunteers welcome).

Thank you to all our volunteers, supporters, donors, sponsors, media, and social network followers!! I remain overjoyed and grateful by the support and encouragement from our Central Coast Community and nationwide letters of appreciation with donations.

Anyone seeking to provide financial contributions can visit our website www.operationwebs.org or mail to OpWEBS PO BOX 2984 Orcutt, CA 93457.