I served as an Enlisted Soldier in the United States proudly for 6 years. My career spanned across three different units with the bulk of my time spent in the 2nd Ranger Battalion. I was injured while serving and retired medically as a Sergeant (E-5) in 2019. My time in the military continues to define who I am and how I react to life now as a disabled man. I am happy to have had the opportunity to serve this great country. The following blog posts are reflections of my time served, and how I connect my military experiences to disability.
Veterans Day Reflection: From Carrying the Stretcher to Being on It
Veterans Day honors all who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and reflects on sacrifice and resilience. The author shares their journey from a proud Ranger and stretcher bearer to a quadriplegic, grappling with identity and the challenge of accepting help. They emphasize strength in vulnerability and a commitment to serving others.
Memorial Day 2025: A Reflection
Memorial Day honors fallen soldiers, originating after the Civil War as Decoration Day. Beyond ceremonies, it embodies personal remembrance for friends lost and reflects on their sacrifices. The red poppy symbolizes this remembrance, reminding us to honor their legacy while appreciating life. We should live fully, cherishing each moment.
Flag Day
“Oh damn, that’s the Battalion Commander… come on, give him a salute… wait, why can’t I lift my arm?…” When I first started finding consciousness in the hospital, I was overwhelmed and confused. I had to be told what had happened to me multiple times, and I still wasn’t good at comprehending it. One of…
My Military Path
2nd Ranger Battalion (2/75) I reached second battalion out in Washington state in September 2013. This was after basic training, infantry AIT, airborne school & RASP (Ranger Selection) I was a proud little Ranger. In battalion I got to deploy to Afghanistan and spend some time in Oman. I got to see Kuwait & Germany.…
Afghanistan: History Repeating | Humanity in Conflict
Part 1: History Repeating This quadriplegics thoughts about Afghanistan I personally have mixed emotions. I’ve made close friendships with many men and women that have lost limbs over there. Friends who have been blown up by cowardly used IEDs. Friends that have been shot in the head and survived. Friends and inspirations who were shot…
Friends In Low Places
I’ll start this Monday’s post with a quote: “you are the company that you keep.” If this saying rings true, then Kass and I must be pretty damn cool. If you have been on Facebook or Instagram at all this last week then you’ve probably seen some sweet pictures of Kass and I’s getaway to…
Live For Them
One For The Airborne Ranger In The Sky Reflections about my friends from Ranger Regiment SGT Cameron Meddock showed up to battalion at a weird time for me. I was injured and working on moving companies and I had seen a lot of new guys come and go. Cam was not one of those guys.…
Joining the Military
For me, joining the military was a very easy decision. Senior year of high school was full of all of this pressure to apply to colleges and I was in no way certain about what my future plans were. I certainly was not ready for college debt. The prospect of leaving all of my childhood…