Michael “Wiki” Mrowicki is an Army veteran who is a part of Operation Charlie Bravo (OCB). His kindness, vast knowledge, and incredible strength in overcoming life's challenges have left a lasting impression on many.
Earning the nickname "Wiki" at the shop, his expertise in mechanical and hands-on skills quickly made him the go-to person for anyone needing help.
"As a little kid, my grandmother told me a story about how I got one of those Power Wheels toys for Christmas,” Mrowicki said. “It was a battery-operated little car — a monster truck. Instead of getting in it, I crawled underneath, stuck my hand out, and said, 'Give me a hammer. I have to fix it.' My dad and my grandfather had me helping with a semi-truck when I was just 9 years old. My dad was an operator, and I was right there learning.”
Mrowicki explained how he got his nickname as a joke. People thought it would be funny to call him "Wiki" like the sound of a turntable scratching. That simple act of camaraderie exemplifies the atmosphere at OCB.
“I love being here, having that brotherhood back, helping my fellow veterans — it changed things,” Mrowicki said. “The truth is, no one will help a veteran like another veteran.”
The brotherhood feeling was strong for Mrowicki after he met a friend named Jason, who introduced him to OCB. He was invaluable in reigniting Mrowicki's passion for working with his hands and doing mechanical work.
“We’re damn near the same in a lot of ways. On my first day there, he remembered things I had said in a meeting a few nights before. The first shot he gave me was rebuilding a brake caliper for a motorcycle. After that, it was off to the races,” Mrowicki said.
Outside of OCB, Mrowicki loves to spend time around his grandmother.
"Most of my time is spent at home caring for my grandmother,” Mrowicki said. “She's bedridden, but as long as I’m able, she won’t have to go to a nursing home. Seeing her smile means everything to me. Even when she’s not feeling well, making her laugh brightens our days. No matter how tough my day might be, all the stress disappears the moment I see her smile. It’s the best feeling in the world to bring her joy."
It hasn’t always been glamorous for Mrowicki, as he understands how civilian life can bring you down. He knows that this happens to every veteran, and the key is to keep moving forward to overcome it.
"I volunteer for the Veterans Treatment Court program, where I mentor two individuals,” Mrowicki said. “I know firsthand what it’s like to be in that system as I’ve been on both sides. I know what it’s like to be in Veterans Treatment Court and not want the help. I know what it’s like to accept it. As a mentor, it’s my job to help them find their way. I want to be someone they can count on, just like how I needed someone when I was in their shoes."
For Mrowicki, the simple things in life — like making others smile or lending a hand — keep him going. These small moments remind him to stay positive and focused, no matter the challenges.
"I always try to help if I can, whether talking to people or being there for them,” Mrowicki said. “One of the small things that gets me through the day is something as simple as chatting with the cashier at a gas station. They deal with many rude customers, so it's a win if I can make them laugh or brighten their day. The little things keep me happy and positive.”
Mrowicki shared that OCB has played a massive role in his life. He feels that, whether you’re a veteran who has been in combat or not, this place can be a home.
“If you’re feeling distant or like you don’t belong, all you have to do is ask,” Mrowicki said. “You can come to me and say, 'Hey, I’m new,' and I’ve got you. I’m the most approachable person you’ll meet. I might look like I’ve got a resting tough face, but that’s just because I’ve got a million things running through my head, managing projects and helping others. I’m always here for my fellow veterans."
For more information on Mrowicki and Operation Charlie Bravo, please click here.