About the Author

Natalie Popp, Miss Wisconsin’s Teen 2025, is a dedicated advocate, talented performer, and proud Wisconsinite. Natalie is passionate about honoring veterans through her initiative, Never Forgotten: Remembering Our Heroes. What began as a high school club has grown into a statewide effort to educate and inspire people of all ages to thank and support our military heroes.

Natalie’s work for veterans has included organizing thank-you letter drives for veterans in nursing homes, Honor Flights, and Veterans Day services; leading several donation campaigns for various veteran non-profits; and creating a Wall of Honor at her school to recognize military alumni. Inspired by her friendship with 100-year-old WWII veteran Dr. Lew Harned, she also wrote and published a children’s book, Lew for the Red, White, and Blue, to share his unique story of service and patriotism.  She encourages everyone to talk with the veterans in their communities to ensure veterans’ stories live on for future generations. In April 2025, she was elected as the youngest board member of the non-profit Operation Not Alone that supports active duty military and veterans.