Mike Hanlon was recognized on Franchise Business Review's annual list of Franchise Rock Stars for 2020, according to a news release.

Hanlon, franchise owner of Dream Vacations – Ocean Dreams Travel in Wilmington, was one of 81 franchise owners nationwide that made the list, stated the release.

“My travel agency franchise has afforded me the opportunity to travel the world with my family, make dream vacations become reality and inspire others to pursue a career in travel,” Hanlon said in the release. “I am so honored to win this award and be recognized not only for my business accomplishments these past five years, but also for my dedication to continue giving back to active service members and veterans alike.”

Hanlon, ​an Army veteran, won in the veterans category. There are eight total categories: giving back, women, millennials, veterans, family-owned, freshmen, top-performers and multi-unit owners, officials said.

He served in the armed forces for 26 years and is a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Hanlon also advocates for franchise ownership among veterans through his role on Dream Vacations’ national Certified Spokesperson Team. In 2019, Hanlon was recognized as Dream Vacations’ Ambassador of Veteran Affairs, stated the release.

Franchise Business Review honors franchise owners "who set exceptional examples of achieving success within the franchise model. This year’s Franchise Rock Stars were selected from over 28,000 franchisees, representing more than 300 brands that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research in the past 18 months," stated the release.