Follow On Initiative Team

Board of Directors

Every founding member is a current or former Special Operations service member who has been through the transition this organization exists to make easier.

James Otto

Founder, Board of Directors

James Otto served in the United States Military for 23 years, with the last 13 years part of the Special Operations community. James' focus has been on Special Mission planning, team building, and leadership. James was a pre-med student at the University of Wisconsin and earned a degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. James holds an FAA Airline Transport Pilot certificate with both Rotorcraft and Fixed Wing qualifications. James holds several FINRA securities licenses including securities broker dealer and Investment Advisor. James is currently working as an Independent Financial Advisor in all 50 states with his company Black Hills Advisors.

Christian Lakars

Founder, Board of Directors

Christian Lakars has been a member of the United States Military for the last 20 years and has spent the last six years in the Special Operations community. His education includes a bachelor's and master's degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Aeronautical Science. Christian holds an FAA Commercial Multi-Engine Fixed Wing and Rotorcraft with Instrument ratings, as well as multiple military professional qualifications. Christian has held key leadership positions within the military and has specialized in maintenance management, aerospace testing and development, global logistics, and government contracting representation. Christian currently owns a small consulting firm that specializes in operations management, strategy, and technology implementation.

Dale (Joe) Bell

Founder, Board of Directors

Joe Bell has spent the last 15 years of his 21-year career in the Special Operations and Intelligence communities. In addition to being a strategic planner for United States Special Operations Command's Special Activities, he is a former Special Mission Unit member and Operations Officer for the United States Army Special Operations Command. Joe holds a bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Science, an FAA Airline Transport Pilot certificate, and is an Operator Training Course graduate. His extensive experience as a Special Mission Operator, operational planner, and intelligence analyst is now poised to provide the Follow On Initiative with the tools needed to serve the Special Operations community.

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Prefer email? Write to dale@follow-on.org.