I currently live in Sacramento, CA, with my wife, Kait. I served in the United States Air Force from 2010 to 2019 as a medic, completing multiple combat tours in Afghanistan. Through my own struggles from my combat experiences, I suffered greatly from PTSD, depression, survivor's guilt, shame, substance abuse, isolation, legal issues, and problems with family and relationships. I have firsthand insight into the struggles and challenges veterans face during and after their service, as well as the difficulties that lie within the recovery community and the lack of resources within the veteran mental health community. Having navigated my own transition and recovery journey, I have found the deepest healing and peace in the outdoors. This personal experience fuels my commitment to helping fellow veterans find that same sense of peace and support through peer mentorship, outdoor therapy, and outdoor recreation and resources for healing. I strongly believe in the transformative power of the outdoors and its ability to foster connection, resilience, and deep healing from the invisible wounds of our military service. I am a full-time psychology student and hold a California Peer Support certification, further strengthening my ability to serve veterans in meaningful ways. As a board member of Disconnect to Reconnect, I plan to share my passion for the outdoors and mental health advocacy to expand opportunities for veterans to reconnect with nature, themselves, and each other, ensuring that every participant finds a supportive and healing community within Disconnect to Reconnect.