Where did you serve and what did you do?

U.S. Army, 26 years Tactical communications, Germany and within the U.S. Later, administrative support in the United States Liaison Office at the U.S. embassy in Qatar during OIF/OEF. Finally, federal military liaison for federal-to-state disaster preparedness and response.

How are you Still Serving?

NV Benefits Advocate who cross-pollenates awareness of vet-to-vet groups in Las Vegas, such as Wounded Warrior Project and Merging Vets and Players. Encourages veterans to join in on a hike or to volunteer in support of ongoing events with local or national veteran organizations, such as Honor Flight of Southern Nevada and the Nevada National Guard family support festivals, and more. Promotes awareness of municipal issues significant to veterans. I’m keen to participate and promote awareness in support of Gold Star families in memorial rucks like the statewide Battle Born Ruck-to-Remember and the Bataan Memorial Death March in New Mexico.

Why do you do it?

The hiking and volunteering keep me moving forward. Both are fulfilling and fun. Hiking is my medicine. The sunlight, views of nature and time to reflect or miles-upon-miles connecting with friends help to keep me balanced. Giving to the community with a sense of purpose is a passion. When I volunteer, I am a messenger of the over-arching narrative of the veteran experience to memorialize or celebrate veterans and to inspire a values-driven lifestyle. I believe that we can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.