WENTZVILLE, MO, October 17, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Mark Schmitz has led a distinguished career marked by entrepreneurial innovation, civic engagement and a commitment to honoring the legacy of service members. As the founder of The Freedom 13 (www.thefreedom13.org)— established in 2022 in honor of his son Jared, a Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corps who was murdered in the line of duty 08.26.21; alongside 12 others at the Abbey Gate in Kabul, Afghanistan — he dedicates his efforts to building recreational retreat camps for veterans, police officers and their families across the United States. This initiative was inspired by his desire to provide safe spaces for gun carrying first responders, allowing them respite and relaxation.

Mr. Schmitz's leadership with the nonprofit has garnered national attention, including recognition in the Oval Office, meetings with two presidents of the United States, speaking in front of the Foreign Affairs Committee and collaboration with Chairman of Foreign Affairs Michael McCaul, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins; to integrate The Freedom 13's services within the Department of Veterans Affairs system. He has also recently been speaking with the Gary Sinise Foundation, exploring opportunities for land donations to further the organization's mission.

In addition to his nonprofit work, Mr. Schmitz is the owner of Barley and Vine Dine Truck (www.mobiledrinks.com), a mobile bar business he acquired in 2021. After purchasing and customizing the truck during the COVID-19 pandemic, he quickly adapted to changing market conditions and achieved notable success as demand for social gatherings, corporate events and private parties surged post-lockdown. He remains actively involved in operations, regularly consulting with his bar manager to ensure continued growth.

Since 2013, Mr. Schmitz has also owned and operated Wideiphoto (www.wideiphoto.com), a marketing firm where he leverages his expertise as a certified drone pilot, photographer & videographer to provide unique photo and video content as well as 360-degree panoramic virtual tours. His passion for photography began during his two-decade tenure as a mortgage broker and banker, where he distinguished himself by providing complimentary real estate photography services for clients — an approach that fostered strong professional relationships and set him apart in the mortgage industry.

Mr. Schmitz's achievements have seen him acknowledged through several honors, including his nomination to Senator Eric Schmitt's Military Academy Board of Advisors. He was also invited to speak before the House Foreign Affairs Committee in Washington, District of Columbia — a televised appearance that underscored his impactful advocacy on behalf of veterans and military families.

Before venturing onto his multidisciplinary path, Mr. Schmitz pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from Saint Louis University in 1994. His academic journey provided him with analytical skills and technological proficiency that have supported his entrepreneurial ventures and nonprofit leadership. Additionally, he is certified FAA drone pilot, enhancing his capabilities with Wideiphoto.

Along with his education, Mr. Schmitz attributes much of his success to his decision to remain self-employed, valuing autonomy, balance and accountability in all aspects of his work. He remains driven by a commitment to carry forward Jared's legacy by caring for others — a principle that guides both his professional pursuits and philanthropic initiatives.

Civically engaged beyond The Freedom 13, Mr. Schmitz had volunteered at Rainbow Village, an care facility for adults with mental deficiencies.

In his personal life, Mr. Schmitz enjoys fishing, spending time outdoors, traveling and spending quality time with his family. Supported by his wife Jaclyn and their five children, he remains focused on expanding The Freedom 13's reach across the United States while ensuring that his other businesses continue to operate efficiently under trusted management.

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