Meet Our Board Members
PRESIDENT
John R. Platt
Currently retired, John is a former pharmacy owner and District Manager for Walgreens in Palm Beach County, Florida. His wife, who is hearing impaired, benefits tremendously from her close relationship with her service dog, Sandi. John’s extensive business and managerial experience have proven invaluable during his service on the board of directors. He is deeply committed to providing quality training and service dogs for veterans in need, recognizing the positive impact these animals can have on individuals and families.
Under John’s leadership, the organization has significantly increased its capacity to serve veterans in need of highly skilled service dogs. One of John’s greatest strengths is his ability to assemble a dynamic team and nurture the unique talents of each individual. His calm demeanor and warmth help foster creative energy and collaboration among the members of the Paws 4 Liberty team. John’s dedication to teamwork and innovation has driven the organization forward, empowering both staff and volunteers to achieve remarkable results.
Serving first as the organization’s Treasurer, John became the board President in early 2025. During his tenure, John oversaw and led a smooth transition in organizational leadership as well as a successful relocation to the “Paws Home,” which now offers much greater space for training in both group and individual settings. His vision and steady guidance have helped position the organization for continued growth and lasting impact.
In addition to his work with Paws 4 Liberty, John serves as a Volunteer Captain for the PBSO COP Program and is a FWC Range Safety Officer.
VICE PRESIDENT
James Pabey, BBAM
James Pabey was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and grew up playing baseball before a Marine Corps commercial inspired him to pursue service.
He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in December 2003 and attended recruit training at Parris Island in 2004. In 2005 he reported to 2nd Transportation Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group at Camp Lejeune and served with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, deploying across the Middle East in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
In 2009 he was assigned to 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, where he deployed twice to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, serving as an Operations Chief and Platoon Sergeant. In 2011 he attended Marine Corps Drill Instructor School and went on to serve as a Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor, Martial Arts Instructor, and Company Operations Chief—helping train 418 civilians into United States Marines.
In 2014 he reported to 451 Combat Logistics Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group in Orlando, Florida, serving as a Platoon Sergeant and Company Martial Arts Instructor. Promoted to Staff Sergeant in 2016, he was selected as a Company Career Planner.
Staff Sergeant Pabey was honorably discharged in August 2017. He continues his commitment to fellow service members at the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System, where he serves as Supervisor for the Community Care Department.
He is married, has two daughters, and lives in Loxahatchee, Florida. He stays active in the community as a high school softball coach and volunteers with Second Chance for Puppies, a nonprofit dog rescue.
TREASURER
James H. Johnson
A native of Minnesota, Jim brings a wealth of military and professional experience to Paws 4 Liberty, coupled with his genuine love of dogs.
Jim Johnson has built a distinguished career in technology, focusing primarily on the health care sector. His deep expertise proved invaluable in improving complex systems and implementing innovative solutions that made a measurable difference. In the later years of his professional journey, Jim shifted his focus to U.S. homeland security, where he contributed significantly to efforts that protected and served the nation.
After an accomplished and fulfilling working life, Jim embraced retirement with enthusiasm. Together with his wife, Marie Ange, he seized the opportunity to travel extensively, often living in a motor home that allowed for extended stays and deeper exploration. Their adventures have taken them across Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and to idyllic islands in the Indian Ocean, enriching their lives with unforgettable experiences.
The Johnsons have cultivated meaningful friendships and family ties across the globe, broadening their perspectives through diverse cultures and experiences. Their two grown children and four grandchildren reside in California, providing a cherished connection to family and a strong sense of home.
Jim is eager to contribute meaningfully to the organization, leveraging his extensive background, leadership skills, and passion to make a positive and lasting impact.
SECRETARY
Heidi Maller
Heidi has been an active member of the south Florida philanthropic community for several decades, demonstrating unwavering dedication to causes that uplift and empower others. Inspired by her deep love for family and the close bond between her son and his faithful canine companion, the Maller family founded the Wade’s Warriors Memorial Fund in honor of their son, Wade Maller. Through this heartfelt initiative, Heidi has helped create lasting impact, ensuring that Wade’s legacy continues to benefit those in need. The fund continues to support the mission of Paws 4 Liberty, enhancing the organization’s capacity to serve more veterans and providing vital resources for those who have served our country. Heidi’s compassionate leadership and commitment make her an invaluable asset to both the organization and the community at large.
In addition to her involvement with Paws 4 Liberty, Heidis also actively involved with the Community Foundation of Broward County. Heidi is now retired from her position as an Area Retail Sales Manager (ARSM) for AT&T, giving her more time to devote to her family, her dogs, and her charitable work.
PRESIDENT EMERITUS
Joseph D. Rainey
Joe is Paws 4 Liberty’s longest standing board member and has been deeply dedicated to the organization since its very beginning, when his partnership with his first service dog (trained by Paws 4 Liberty), Tanker, began. Throughout their years together, Joe and Tanker together carried the heart of Paws 4 Liberty, representing the organization with honor and compassion. They attended countless events, visited schools, and spoke passionately about the unique needs of veterans and the profound benefits that service dogs can provide. Their remarkable journey was even highlighted in a children’s book, Tanker and Joe, written by Alyssa Rudinsky and Donna Benemoz, who also served as a Paws 4 Liberty board member. Joe’s commitment to advocacy has inspired many, helping to shine a light on the impact of service dogs in the lives of veterans and their families.
Joe served honorably as a tanker in the U.S. Marine Corps until a stateside accident unexpectedly cut his military career short. Despite this setback, he channeled his resilience into helping others, continuing to support his fellow veterans through his work with Paws 4 Liberty. After many faithful years together, Joe sadly lost Tanker to cancer in 2020. Today, he continues his journey with “Stitch,” his second service dog from Paws 4 Liberty, carrying forward the legacy of service, hope, and healing that has defined his involvement with the organization.
DIRECTOR
Rob Robinson
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