
Military Wild
Virginia
Meet your VA Team
Brittany Whalen-Davila
I’m a California native getting to travel the world with my spouse who’s in the Navy. I work full time outdoors and on the weekends I love experiencing something new in or around Norfolk. Whether it be a new trail, brewery or museum.
Favorite Adventure: Would have to be Kearsarge Pass summit in the Inyo National Forrest. Hardest day hike I have ever done in my life but with that view... I would definitely hike it again!
Favorite trail snack: freeze dried mango slices and dark chocolate, together.
I always pack toilet paper, cus leaves don’t work.
Julie Behnke
Hey, I’m Julie! I’m originally from Maryland but currently stationed in the Hampton Roads area finishing up my twilight tour in the Navy. It has been a wild ride and I have met so many amazing people through different duty stations from Japan, North Carolina, Virginia and deployments all over the world. Some of my fondest memories are of the time I spent with the Marines outside doing anything from landing helicopters to teaching combat lifesavers. I have always enjoyed being outside and in the water from an early age. I fell in love with the outdoors on a hike with my husband when a mama bear and her three cubs casually walked past us. Since then, I have gotten outside and specifically to the mountains as often as possible. Hiking has brought me a sense of peace and freedom but also an opportunity to really connect with my kids. I also enjoy cycling, kayaking, paddleboarding and camping.
Favorite Adventure: Hiking the Inca Trail to see Machu Picchu at sunrise.
Favorite Trail Snack: Welch’s Fruit Snacks. It is one snack my whole family enjoys and easy to pack when out on the trail!
I always pack sunscreen, a flashlight, and a robust first aid kit.
Elena Huffaker
Hi! My name is Elena. My family and I reside in Virginia. I am a mother, military spouse, veteran, digital experience professional, and more. Nature is awesome (truly awe-some) and being outdoors and moving make me feel alive. In addition, I feel you can connect with yourself and others in a way you can’t in other environments. Having the ability to experience different seasons in Virginia provides the opportunity to diversify outdoor fun. I enjoy running, hiking, cycling, snowboarding, and more. I’ve only started paddling, camping and backpacking here within the past several years. This year I am working on obtaining my scuba certification and look forward to adventures with it. My love of the outdoors and moving was fostered by my dad and I strive to share it with my family and others.
Favorite Adventure: The one that just happened and the next one that’s upcoming! I find each adventure has its own gifts.
Favorite snack: A couple of recent favorite snacks for hiking include pickle infused beef jerky and single serving chocolate squares with coffee mixed in them (Pocket Latte).
I always pack sunscreen and more water than I think I need.
Christina Burk
I was born and raised in Metro Detroit and to be completely honest I did not consider myself someone who would ever be ‘outdoorsy’ enough to apply to be an ambassador for a hiking group, but moving to Guam changed all of that!
My husband Ryan and I got married July of 2019. Ryan is in the Coast Guard and was stationed in Guam from 2018 to 2020. He convinced me that after 3 years of long-distance dating that we should get married and I should leave everything I know to move to an island in the middle of the Pacific with him. I’m happy to say it’s the best choice I ever made!
I joined Military Wild in Guam and because of this amazing group I fell in love with the island and all of its beauty. We loved it so much we decided to island hop right over to Hawaii, where I get the opportunity to be an ambassador for our Hawaii chapter.
Hobbies for me involve being around the water. I have an inflatable kayak and some great snorkel gear. I love to scuba dive and do open water swims. Land hobbies include just about any sport I can figure out how to play!
Indoors I like boxing, cooking, puzzles, Hawaii Five-0, telling stories about my crazy Italian family in Detroit, and calling all my friends and family in Michigan.
Favorite Adventure: Lower Sigua Falls in Guam
Favorite Trail Snack: Perky Jerky
I always pack a First Aid Kit because I’m clumsy

This Could be you...
We're on the search for Ambassadors in YOUR area! If you or someone you know loves the outdoors and is passionate about building community and connection, join the MW fam. Check out our Ambassador Search for more information.
tune in
+
Head out
Shop local + Save
with your local Community Perks partners

Athleta (Hilltop shopping center in VB)
Virginia
Womens Active Wear
Become a Military Wild Member, then head to the Community Perks page to explore discounts!

Earth to Water
Virginia, nationwide
Outdoor gear including camping, hiking, trail running, backpacking, travel
Become a Military Wild Member, then head to the Community Perks page to explore discounts!

Fathom Coffee
Virginia, nationwide
Veteran-owned, premium, single origin coffee
Located in Virginia & shipping worldwide, 1% for the Planet member
Become a Military Wild Member, then head to the Community Perks page to explore discounts!