In this gripping episode of Stories of Service, host Theresa Carpenter sits down with Ricky Laahs, a United States Marine Corps veteran whose life took an unexpected turn after attending the January 6th rally in Washington, DC. What began as a trip to support a friend would spiral into a years-long legal and personal battle, costing Ricky her job, her security clearance, her reputation—and nearly her future. This episode is not just about a rally; it’s about the consequences of association, the fragility of civil liberties, and the resilience required to stand against bureaucratic forces.
Guest Bio: Ricky Laahs
Ricky Laahs served four years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps as an 0651 Network Administrator at Quantico, Virginia. Inspired to join after her brother suffered a life-changing brain injury, she was determined to live a life of equal challenge. Post-military, Ricky transitioned into government contracting and later pursued nursing. Her dedication to service spans both technical and healthcare fields. Today, she is also an advocate for due process and government accountability after facing professional ruin for attending a political rally.
🔑 Key Takeaways
✔️ The Rally Was a Turning Point—Not a Political Statement: Ricky didn’t consider herself politically active before January 6th. She attended the rally primarily to support a struggling friend. Her experience on the ground contrasted sharply with the media’s portrayal—she recalls a festive, parade-like atmosphere and never entered the Capitol building.
✔️ Fallout Without Formal Charges: Despite never being arrested or charged, Ricky was reported to the FBI and labeled an insider threat. She lost her job with a Space Force contractor, had her security clearance revoked, and was placed on a domestic terrorist watch list, severely impacting her career and personal life.
✔️ Fighting Back Through Legal Channels: Ricky enlisted legal help from Bill Brown at the Parlor Law Group to challenge the revocation of her clearance. Although the government rescinded its initial accusations, they failed to issue a new statement or provide documentation, leaving Ricky in limbo. Her FOIA requests have been stonewalled, adding further frustration.
✔️ The Human Cost of Bureaucratic Ambiguity: Beyond professional setbacks, Ricky experienced social isolation, anxiety, and humiliation—especially at airports. Despite her transition into nursing, unresolved security issues continue to cast a shadow over her future, particularly if her partner resumes active duty.
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Ricky Laahs' story is a cautionary tale about the fragility of reputation and rights in a politically charged climate. Her experience underscores the dangers of guilt by association and the challenges veterans can face when navigating complex government systems post-service. Through it all, Ricky has remained steadfast, choosing to fight for her name, her future, and others who might find themselves similarly caught in the crosshairs.
Theresa Carpenter’s Stories of Service continues to spotlight voices like Ricky’s—individuals who, even after their military service, still find themselves in battles worth fighting.
