Veteran Advocacy
I spend a great deal of my time and focus on current veteran issues inhibiting many members of our community from living their best life. Utilizing our resources and our 501c3 Grunt Style Foundation, we encourage, develop, support, programs and initiatives specific to the needs of the veteran community. Four Pilars of focus that I believe are important are Mental Health & Wellness, Food Insecurities, Veteran Transition & Sustainment, and Veteran Homelessness.
Toxic exposure and burn pit related illnesses are among the most important issues our community is facing post GWOT. Tens of thousands of veterans have died while millions Grunt Style Foundation was a key stakeholder in the passage of the Heath Robinson PACT Act of 2022. Providing healthcare and presumptions to nearly 3.5 million veterans of multiple conflicts suffer from Toxic Exposure.
Veteran suicide is out of control and current medical approaches are not creating successful outcomes as the numbers continue to grow. I work with several organization such as the Veterans Mental Health Leadership Coalition that is currently supporting legislative efforts at the state and federal level to decriminalize psychedelics and provide medical access to veterans eligible for this form of therapy.
Mammoth Sniper Challenge
Mammoth Sniper Challenge is a three day physical and mental endurance competition. Teams will engage in long range targets in simulated sniper hides. From Navy Seals to school teachers, carpenters to combat veterans, participants from all walks of life compete in this competition.
Violent But True
I remember during the “crucible” at MCRD Paris Island, each obstacle was a rendition of a MOH recipient’s battle scenario. Those stories really stuck with me over the years and it was suggested to me through a business partner to do a series of videos in the persona of the Grunt Style 1SG. The idea was a hit and has produced over 60 episodic videos of American war fighters and their acts of valor. Violent But True is a very important project of mine in that it is important for our nation to continue to remember those who gave their lives, often in the most violent conditions, and continue to celebrate the American spirit that is a common thread in each of these incredible stories.
Most recently I have taken one of my very favorite bedtime stories and converted it to a book format. The story follows Msgt Roy Benevides US Army Green Beret in Vietnam and his battle to save his team from being destroyed with only a Bowie knife and his med kit. A true inspiration of the American Spirit and to our honor that “no one left behind.”