Wounded Warrior Project founder says interim COO appointment is step in right direction

The founder of Wounded Warrior Project said the charity’s latest leadership change is a step in the right direction for the organization as it works to regain the trust of the public and donors.

Retired Maj. Gen. Charlie Fletcher will serve as interim chief operating officer beginning April 11.

“He looks to be just a great former military officer, a lot of character,” WWP founder John Melia said. “A good solid safe choice for Wounded Warrior Project and certainly a guy who is very comfortable leading a large organization.”

Fletcher is on the advisory council for WWP and has more than 30 years of experience in military aviation.

According to WWP, Fletcher served in eight command tours and three combat tours.

Fletcher's appointment comes after former COO Al Giordano and former CEO Steven Nardizzi were fired due to  allegations of overspending.

“There just needed to be change, and it looks like the board is starting to move that way,” Melia said. “There’s a lot more change that has to be done.”

Melia has been in talks with the board of directors for several weeks about rejoining the organization as CEO.

Melia said he looks forward to the possibility of working alongside a veteran like Fletcher.

“I’d love to learn from him,” Melia said. “Work alongside him and teach him what I know about the nonprofit sector and Wounded Warrior Project.”

Melia said he is meeting with the board of directors on Monday in New York.

Cox Media Group