It is with great sadness that the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation announces the loss of Board member Edwin “Spike” Wahlen. Spike passed away on July 9th after battling acute myeloid leukemia. A Board Member since 2019, Spike worked tirelessly on behalf of the Foundation to help create a space where we, as a nation can come together to honor, heal, be empowered and unite behind those who served in America’s longest war.
“Spike served our Board and the nation with great commitment. He leaves a legacy of incredible compassion, love and support for the entire GWOT community.”
—Michael “Rod” Rodriguez, President and CEO of the Foundation.
“To me, Spike was far more than a Board member,” continued Rodriguez. “He was a phenomenal mentor and close friend who passionately advocated on behalf of those who served their nation, their families, and their communities. He will be dearly missed.”
Spike was committed to raising awareness of our mission to build a national GWOT Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., he was instrumental in all of our recent successes.
Our love, sympathy, and support are with Spike’s wife Cathy and their family.
