Q: What does your call sign mean to you?
A: The quality that our wounded veterans and law enforcement possess to continue to conquer each day and strive to better themselves despite what issues they are going through.
Q: In what branch of the military did you serve (or are currently serving in) and for how long?
A: Army, 6 years.
Q: What drew you to OEW?
A: After separating from the Army I had a feeling that something was missing. It was the sense of camaraderie and being a part of a team. I was watching too many of my fellow soldiers that I served lose their lives and knew that there was something I needed to do. I was doing a Spartan race and saw the MAT team moving throughout the course supporting their AA. I went home and looked up the organization. After looking through the OEW website and Facebook, I was astounded. The selflessness of everyone in the organization to do whatever they can in their power to ensure that our nations veterans have a better quality of life and regain their since of purpose was incredible. At that point, I knew that this was a team I wanted to be on.
Q: Why did you commit to the Masked Athlete program?
A: I want to give back to those that have given so much. Also, since being out of the Army I have had a void in my life and I knew that the MAT was where I needed to be.
Q: What is the best thing about being a MAT member?
A: Getting to meet our wounded veterans and law enforcement personnel. I enjoy hearing their stories and how they persevere through obstacles in their life.
Q: What is the most challenging thing about being a MAT member?
A: Keeping in mind that being a MAT member is such a small part of OEW. Being an OCA is far more important and is the backbone of OEW. You need to keep informing people of our mission and continue to network to grow the organization.
Q: Describe your most unforgettable moment during an event.
A: It was a 2018 Spartan Sprint. Biggest challenge was to ensure that our AA made it through the course without injury. Due to his paralysis he was prone to bruising very easily. As we all know, all Spartan obstacle course races are known for giving people "Spartan Kisses." The AA's wife was very adamant about making sure that he was watched out for carefully. Then at the end of the race, as she realized that he was unharmed and she was able to complete the race herself, gave them both a since of relief. You could tell that they were both in such a state of enjoyment that it was contagious to everyone around them.
Q: What piece of advice would you give someone who is interested in becoming a MAT member?
A: You need to find your why. If you don’t know why you want to be a MAT member then you will not succeed.
Check out our new Spotify channel! Each Call Sign will share their own playlists of music that gets them pumped for action or helps them chill during their workday. Follow our channel and receive updates whenever new playlists are posted!
About INDOC: The application process to apply for the Masked Athlete Team Warrior INDOC opens on an as-needed basis for a short window of submission. Requirements are men or women with military or LEO experience. Announcements are made via social media. Follow our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts and check back frequently for our open enrollment announcement.
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