Joined US Army in 1989 as a Combat Engineer

Served as a member of the California National Guard in the 1990’s, deploying to Panama twice and Honduras once in support of humanitarian service missions with the 579^th Engineer Battalion constructing schools and clinics at local villages.

Served nearly three years of active duty after the 9-11 attacks on the United States in 2001. Assigned to sentry duty at the Golden Gate Bridge shortly after the attacks. Deployed in 2003 to Utah for homeland security mission standing guard at chemical weapons depot. Deployed to Iraq in 2004 with A/579^th Engineer Battalion.

While stationed in Iraq served as a Platoon Sargent/Squad leader. We provided security for military convoy operations leading civilian supply trucks to vital military bases in Iraq often through hostile areas of operation (Baghdad and Fallujah just to name a few). Conducted combat missions while stationed at Balad Air Base "aka LSA Camp Anaconda”, located 40miles North of Baghdad along the Tigris River.  On November 4^th was wounded by an IED (Improvised Explosive Devise) while on routine patrol. Awards received during deployment include the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal and the Combat Action Badge.

Retired from the California National Guard in 2008 with 20 years of military service in the US Army