After leaving the Marines, I carried that sense of duty into my next chapter: becoming a police officer. For the past eighteen years, I have worn the badge, serving and protecting my community. Being a police officer has been a calling, but also a heavy burden. The challenges of the job, the things you see and can’t forget, the weight can slowly erode your sense of purpose. I have come to realize that my greatest mission now is to serve those who have walked the same difficult paths I have.
Having faced the challenges of anxiety and post-traumatic stress himself, Anthony is dedicated to ensuring that veterans, first responders, and frontline professionals have access to healing and support. At Thin Line Retreat, he lends his voice and experience to help create a place of strength, renewal, and purpose for those who serve.
One of the hardest moments came when he was involved in a serious vehicle accident that nearly took his life. That experience changed everything. It forced him to slow down, to confront his pain, and to recognize that surviving meant he was here for a reason. His story is one of determination — not of perfection, but of perseverance
Larry has been married for 44 years, he is a proud parent of three children and eight grandchildren, with family serving as the cornerstone of my life and values. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Missouri–St. Louis and a Master of Business Administration from Lindenwood University, building a strong foundation in business principles and leadership. Professionally, he dedicated 41 years to Boeing (formerly McDonnell Douglas) as a logistics specialist in Material Management, where he developed expertise in operations and long-term organizational success.
Beyond his career, he has spent nearly two decades serving in retreat ministry throughout the St. Louis area, participating in more than 60 retreats that focused on faith, healing, and personal growth. As Director of the ACTS Chapter in STL, he facilitates faith-based retreats, co-lead an annual grief retreat called Seeds of Healing, and actively mentor others through service and faith. A 4th degree Knight and nominee for Catholic of the Year in the STL Archdiocese, he remains committed to fostering resilience, hope, and community in both spiritual and personal development.
Sarah McRath, a communications professional with four years of experience in dispatch and a deep commitment to supporting first responders. I have a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Criminal Justice and recently completed my Master of Social Work while working full-time in dispatch.
With firsthand knowledge of the demands and challenges dispatchers face, I’m passionate about bridging the gap between first responders and the mental health resources available to them. My goal is to become a licensed social worker, specializing in advocacy and supporting those on the front lines. I hope to serve as both a resource and a relatable ally — someone dispatchers and other first responders can turn to, knowing I truly understand their experience.
Dr. Horn is a board-certified psychiatrist and Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association with over a decade of experience delivering compassionate, evidence-based, and integrative mental health care. He currently serves as the Chief Physician Executive for Mercy Behavioral Health. Dr. Horn is also a psychiatric consultant for the St. Louis Cardinals and a co-founder of the American Board of Sports and Performance Psychiatry.
After earning his medical degree from the University of North Texas Health Science Center—where he also completed additional training in health management and policy—Dr. Horn completed his psychiatry residency and served as Chief Resident at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. His clinical practice spans outpatient psychiatry, collaborative care, and integrated behavioral health models, with prior service in both community mental health and inpatient settings.
A recognized leader in the integration of behavioral health within large healthcare systems, Dr. Horn is also a dedicated advocate for physician wellness and public mental health education. Outside of his clinical and leadership roles, he is actively involved in service and mentorship through organizations like the Boy Scouts of America and coaching youth sports for his children.
Darryl Zastrow is a dedicated firefighter and paramedic with the West Overland Fire and EMS District. He began his career with the West Alton Volunteer Department—now Rivers Pointe Fire—before joining Christian EMS as an EMT in 2007. He went on to earn his Paramedic and Critical Care licenses and complete training at the St. Louis County Fire Academy. In 2015, Darryl joined the West Overland Fire Protection District, where his commitment and leadership led to his promotion to lieutenant in 2023, reflecting his deep experience and dedication to public safety.
Outside the firehouse, Darryl is a devoted husband and father of three. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys fishing, ice hockey, and playing the drums. He also has a strong background in home renovation, construction, and concrete work—skills he not only excels at but genuinely enjoys. Whether responding to emergencies or building something from the ground up, Darryl brings hands-on expertise, integrity, and a strong work ethic to everything he does.
Dan is a U.S. Air Force veteran and retired police officer with 30 years of service in law enforcement. Throughout his career, he served as a patrol officer, detective, FBI federal task force officer, school resource officer, and peer counselor.
Like many first responders, Dan experienced critical incidents that took a cumulative toll. It wasn’t until later in life that he recognized he was living with PTSD and that the weight he had carried for years was not something he had to face alone.
Today, Dan is dedicated to helping first responders and veterans navigate the mental and emotional challenges that can come with service. Drawing from both professional experience and personal healing, his mission is to ensure those who protect and serve know there is support, hope, and a path forward — even in the darkest times.
David is a Missouri-licensed attorney specializing in real estate law and currently serves as In-House Counsel for Investors Title Company. He brings extensive legal expertise and a strong commitment to service in both his professional and community endeavors.
David earned his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from DePauw University and received his Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law. Born and raised in St. Louis, he remains deeply connected to the community.
He is passionate about supporting veterans and first responders who put their lives on the line each day to protect others. David is proud to serve on the team at Thin Line Retreat, where he contributes his knowledge and leadership to further the mission of strengthening the well-being of those who serve.
Beth Salmo is a Licensed Professional Counselor in MO. She’s also fully licensed in IL and owns Thin Line Counseling Services, LLC. Beth earned a M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Arkansas in 2015. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Emergency Responder and Public Safety Certified Clinician (ERPSCC).
Beth is trained in and practices trauma treatments including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing); CBT-i (for insomnia); and works often with individuals presenting with anger, trauma, depression, anxiety/panic, relationship issues, grief, compassion fatigue, and moral injury. She is a military-vetted mental health care provider and spouse of a retired USMC Master Sgt. who served for 22 years.
Utilizing cutting-edge skills gleaned from consistent participation in continuing education, Beth augments her skills to help all warriors. She started her private practice in 2021 following the death of a former partner, who worked for many years in federal law enforcement. Having several friends and loved ones in public service roles, Beth personally understands the issues and dynamics that can present in these relationships. She sees first responder, healthcare, and military-connected clients from her office in St. Peters.
Beth is passionate about being human with and supporting the first responder and military community. She is proud to serve as the director of all wellness initiatives at Thin Line Retreat. Here, she will offer her knowledge, skills, and expertise to lead the therapeutic team and support the well-being of all participants.
