I proudly joined the United States Marine Corps in 2016, serving as a 6469 RTCASS (Reconfigurable Transportable Consolidated Automated Support System) Technician. My primary role involved maintaining Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) and repairing avionics components for the AV-8B Harrier at the intermediate level, ensuring mission-critical systems were fully operational. True to the Corps’ ethos, I also embraced my role as a rifleman, ready to serve in any capacity required.

I didn’t choose to leave the United States Marine Corps; circumstances forced that decision. During a grueling field exercise simulating combat conditions, I dislocated my shoulder six times but pushed through the pain, determined to complete the mission. It wasn’t until my shoulder became stuck out of socket, with severe internal bleeding, that a corpsman, visibly alarmed, insisted I be pulled from training for immediate medical attention. After hours of intense pain, multiple morphine doses, and the expertise of a specialized doctor, my shoulder was finally reset. What followed was an arduous journey of extensive physical therapy, shoulder surgery, and more therapy. I fought to prove my fitness for duty, acing multiple first-class PFTs and CFTs to satisfy the Medical Board’s rigorous standards. Despite my determination to continue serving, the cumulative strain on my shoulder led to further complications, requiring another round with the Medical Board. Ultimately, they made the difficult decision to medically retire me, ending my active service in the Corps.

Yup! As a Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corps, I served with dedication despite the challenges of my MOS, 6469 RTCASS Technician, being closed for reclassification of entire Prowler Avionics squadrons throughout my enlistment.

As a Lance Corporal in the Marine Corps, I spent countless hours in the Smoke Pit, a chronic smoker soaking up the raw camaraderie. It was the go-to spot for Marines to talk, vent, and swap rumors and news—our informal intel hub. After my medical retirement, I missed that connection. Now, as "That Smoke Pit Veteran," I share global military developments on social media as a hobby. It keeps me tied to the military world and brings me joy.

I kicked cigarettes to the curb, but I’ll light up a cigar now and then for the vibe.