Where did you serve and what did you do?

Most of my time was with 2-37 AR 1BDE 1AD in Friedberg, Germany. I have multiple other units. I started as a 19K, M1A1 Armored Tank Crewman.

How are you Still Serving?

I have started an outdoors group called Route Clearance for Veterans in my hometown and surrounding areas. Through hiking, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor events, I try to connect veterans with others. My area of Southwestern Virginia has very little to offer to Veterans, including Veterans Affairs and other organizations. I recognized this after moving here and have successfully brought Veterans together to share their experiences. I am working with the local Behavioral Health and Veterans Affairs to help facilitate better services in our area.

Why do you do it?

I have been fighting my demons since 2012. Afters years of being lost as a civilian in Germany, I realized I had to return home and seek help. Since 2018, I have remarried, had another daughter, and retook my life into my control. This past year, I have realized how much nature helps me and I want to share the peace with other Veterans. Through my actions, the community is starting to recognize the importance of helping Veterans with PTSD. Seeing others prosper helps me prosper and be a better husband and father.