Mike Halus served in the U.S. Army for 23 years as an infantry and artillery officer from 1959 to 1982. Having survived infantry combat and dodging mortar rounds launched toward his foxhole in Vietnam for nearly two years, Mike said, “By the grace of God, I wasn’t spread across the jungle of Vietnam.” This extraordinary experience shaped him into a person who truly cares for others.

Mike spent a year stationed in Korea in 1968, long past the Korean conflict, and was responsible for an air mobile operation to find and capture 32 North Korean agents who crossed the border into South Korea. Additionally, he spent three years in Europe, four in Asia, and his final six years in the Pentagon where he was responsible for Army current operations in the Pacific Theatre followed by establishing and Organizational Development Organization which conducted management consulting and training for the Army and Air Force National Guard.

After he retired from the Army, Mike and his wife, Gini, traveled North America for eight years in a large motorhome. They explored Alaska, Canada, and most of the national parks in the lower 48. They eventually settled down in Banner Elk, NC, and then moved to Givens Estates in 2017.

Mike’s passion for helping others continues as he now serves Veterans in a volunteer capacity. He helps Vets in our WNC region work through the sometimes-complex system of the Veterans Administration. He has helped over 200 Vets qualify for the benefits they have earned through their service to our country.