The Team Behind the Mission
At Patriot Direct, we’re more than marketers—we’re mission-focused problem solvers, strategists, and creatives dedicated to supporting the Army National Guard. Our team brings together deep expertise in digital marketing, branding, technology, and recruitment strategy to deliver results that matter. Get to know the people working behind the scenes to amplify your message and strengthen the Guard’s future.
Sam Wheeler - Partner
With over 40 years of experience building and leading small to mid-sized businesses, Sam Wheeler is a veteran executive with deep expertise in direct marketing, business operations, and supply chain strategy. For the past three decades, he has focused on helping clients drive growth through targeted marketing solutions and operational efficiency. His diverse background spans IT outsourcing, business processing, and commercial real estate development.
Sam’s commitment to service extends beyond business. A proud military parent and lifelong supporter of the armed forces, he has held leadership roles in the West Point Society of Philadelphia and the William Penn Chapter of AUSA. At Patriot Direct, Sam helps forge strategic partnerships that amplify the Army National Guard’s mission and outreach. He holds a BA in Economics and International Relations from George Washington University and continues to serve his community through various nonprofit leadership roles.
John Little - Partner
John Little brings over four decades of leadership across both military and private-sector operations, combining deep strategic expertise with a passion for mission-driven marketing. As a retired U.S. Army Infantry Lieutenant Colonel, John led units and served as a faculty member at West Point. His military foundation laid the groundwork for a successful corporate career leading large-scale operational and marketing initiatives in telecom, e-commerce, and defense contracting.
At Patriot Direct, John applies his unique blend of military insight and executive experience to help shape high-impact digital campaigns for the Army National Guard. He specializes in operational strategy, leadership development, and aligning marketing efforts with mission readiness. John holds degrees from West Point, the University of Washington, and Long Island University.
Regina Butel - Product/Account Manager
Regina Butel brings over 15 years of specialized marketing experience with the Army National Guard, making her an essential asset in crafting strategies that resonate with military audiences. Her expertise spans the full marketing lifecycle—from local and regional campaign development to brand positioning, lead generation, and market analysis. Regina has a proven track record of turning complex challenges into actionable strategies that drive measurable results.
At Patriot Direct, Regina leads the charge on integrated marketing initiatives designed to support recruiting, retention, and referral-based campaigns. Her deep understanding of Guard culture and mission needs allows her to develop messaging that connects authentically and performs effectively. With a strong background in strategic planning and program management, she consistently delivers high-impact solutions that align with both state-level objectives and national goals.
Nick Wheeler - Special Advisor
Nick Wheeler is a former U.S. Army Special Forces (Green Beret) Officer with nearly a decade of leadership experience in some of the military’s most elite units. During his service, he led Infantry, Ranger, and Special Forces teams and served as aide-de-camp to the Commanding General of Special Operations Command Europe. Through these roles, Nick gained firsthand insight into the challenges of recruiting and retaining top-tier talent for the Armed Forces—sparking his passion for mission-focused marketing.
Now the CEO of Tra-Cal, a test and measurement calibration business he acquired in 2024 through a self-funded search under Sage Succession, Nick continues to bring strategic leadership to purpose-driven organizations. At Patriot Direct, he advises on military engagement strategies and ensures our campaigns align with the values and realities of service members. Nick holds a Bachelor of Science from West Point and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He lives in Alexandria, Virginia with his wife, Nicole, their son, Luke, and their Boxer, Hobie.
Jeff Musumeche - Special Advisor, Training & Programs
Jeff Musumeche is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience driving performance and developing talent in both military and business environments. As a former Recruiting and Retention Battalion Commander with the Army National Guard, Jeff brings firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing today’s recruiters. Earlier in his career, he served as a senior R&R NCO, providing him with a ground-level perspective that informs his practical and results-driven approach.
At Patriot Direct, Jeff serves as a special advisor and trainer, specializing in high school engagement programs and recruitment strategies tailored to the Guard’s unique mission. He also leads KMRG LLC, a government contracting firm delivering essential support to federal agencies. Jeff combines strategic leadership with a deep understanding of field operations to deliver actionable training that enhances recruiter effectiveness and team cohesion. He holds a BS in Math and Computer Science Education and an MS in Human Resource Management.
John Enyart - CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
John Enyart brings a wide spectrum of technology experience as a Professor of Management Information Systems and independent technology consultant for many public and private sector institutions, start-ups and international clients. Enyart retired from academia in 1992, from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. That same year he founded EAI, Inc. (Enyart Associates International). His work includes 40+ years of information technology research and development, including his leading edge Internet company, Flat World Technology.
Mike Kearney
Prior to joining Patriot Direct, Mike spent 24 years in the Coast Guard and managed several projects in the defense and government sectors. Mike has served as a strategic advisor on many Patriot Direct projects, including two fundraisers for US Navy ship commissionings where his finance committees raised nearly $700,000 for the Navy League to support the crews and their families.
Nicole Wheeler - CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Nicole has been working in the marketing, sales, design field for the past ten years. She specializes in website & print design and has in-depth experience of current online marketing practices including social media, email and blog management. Her education includes a Bachelors in Business Administration with concentration in Marketing; she also holds a certification in Digital Media for Print & Web from Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia.
Learn More About Our Solutions
Consistent messaging is imperative to a successful consumer-brand relationship, and it’s becoming more difficult to reach your target audience at the right time. Learn more about how our solutions meet your marketing demands and provide optimal lead generation.