Where did you serve and what did you do?

Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) 2 / While there I was part of the 1st Calvary Division Military Band. Performed duties as lead vocalist in three separate band groups: rock band (rock, patriotic, hip-hop, country music), Latin Band, and Jazz Band. In these roles, the bands traveled throughout Iraq and performed for soldiers (additional photos and news articles available). Performed additional duties as Mail-Handler NCOIC, Quick Reactionary Team Duties, and Guard Duties. Performing with the band was my third job in the military. I started at 17 years old as a Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Specialist (NBC), then as a Signal Intelligence Analyst.

Tell us how your dog is helping you continue Still Serving in your community.

Scooby-Doo helps me with PTSD and mobility. He alerts me to “destructive behaviors” such as nail biting, leg shaking, etc. When I am anxious or stressed out he notifys me to take a break or insists that I rub him to relax. For mobility, he helps with picking up items, has caught me when my balance was shaky going down stairs (he is a 135lb, chocolate, English Labrador) and other duties. Scooby-Doo flies with me for work and is amazing on a plane. He allows me to be comfortable going out and doing the things I need to do. Helps me not feel as anxious in crowds as well.

Why do you do it?

Not sure what you are asking? If you are asking me why did I serve in the military, the answer is…I never saw myself not serving. I am 3rd/4th generation war vet. My grandfather (deceased) was in the Navy, my father did 3 tours back-to-back in vietnam, my Uncle was in vietnam, my older brother (deceased) served in Saudi Arabia and serving made me exceptionally proud to have done what they did. Performing for soldiers in Iraq and having them tell us that we uplifted their spirits, made them forget where they were for just a little bit, or performed something that made them smile by reminding them of home was priceless. I will always be proudest of my time in Iraq and getting to perform with the most amazing musicians every made. If you want to hear amazing music just go see a military band perform. They are the greatest.