I proudly served 12 years in the U.S. Army Reserve, including two deployments to Afghanistan that shaped the person I am today.
During my first tour (2005–2006), my team conducted manual de-mining operations in active minefields alongside military working dogs. Walking among unexploded ordnance was dangerous, but nothing compared to my second deployment (2010–2011), when we executed deliberate route-clearance missions. Our job was to find and neutralize improvised explosive devices to ensure safe passage for the units that followed.
We had many close calls. While I was fortunate not to lose anyone during the mission itself, tragedy struck after we returned home. I will be rucking in honor of the brothers I served with—men who didn’t receive the help they needed in time.
I will also be rucking for SSG Shaw, who stood beside me and absorbed the force of an explosive blast so his team could live. His ultimate sacrifice in the face of certain danger represents the very best of us.
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13
I will walk for those who can no longer walk.
I AM TOUGH RUCKING FOR AMERICA'S FALLEN MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDERS
This April, I will be joining Tough Ruck Nation to complete a marathon with a 35lbs rucksack (backpack). Tough Ruck 26.2 Boston is an elite group of 1000 who ruck to HONOR AMERICA'S FALLEN MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDERS. We humbly carry the names of the Fallen on our rucks as they will NEVER BEEN FORGOTTEN. We will also be raising critical funds for our Warriors. This is where we need your help! The basic ideal that drives our efforts is simple: as much as our Warriors have sacrificed, they and their families deserve the best care and support available in their hour of need. Your tax deductible donation literally provides a lifeline to a Warrior.
On April 15, 2013, Tough Ruckers were at the finish line of the Boston Marathon and joined the first responders to help those that were injured by the horrific blasts. They truly exemplify the best of what our Nation is. Today the Tough Ruck takes place the weekend before Boston Marathon Monday. Tough Ruck is the only ruck march partnered with the Boston Marathon and finishers are awarded the official Boston Marathon Medals and receive recognition from the Boston Athletic Association. Military Friends Foundation is the official charity of Tough Ruck Nation.
