BiographyBorn and raised in the rural south during the tumultous sixties, I have had to contend with overcoming a multitude of obstacles. Those obstacles have included growing up with limited educational opportunities, poverty and limited vision outside the farming community of my birth.
Through hard work, listening to mentors and advisors and the love and guidance of determined parents, those obstacles have been overcome. Entering the University of Tennessee system, joining ROTC and understanding what the future held, my journey to success took a very determined turn for the best.
Through my military affiliations, I learned what it is to lead by being at the side of commanders during the first Gulf War, participating actively in the current War on Terror and maintaining an active civilian career in the insurance industry simultaneously. I have been able to apply lessons learned from both lives to find success. I was extremely fortunate to have earned the Bronze Star Medal for activities performed in Iraq. I have worked at the ministry level in both Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the NATO led coalition. Learning to communicate effectively through translators and picking up the language was a challenge, but one that was overcome to great effect. Understanding strategic and tactical impact in real life scenarios was not only enlightening, but very exciting!
Applying civilian leadership principles in a military environment is what makes the civilian soldier valuable to our country. Conversely, applying military doctrine and principles to the civilian world also makes this segment of our society valuable and I am proud to be in that community. I won my MBA degree while performing as a leader. Having put theory to practice allows me to "spread the wealth" because it is a juggling act that allows the best of all worlds to come together.
I see my life experience as a journey worthy of sharing with others. Perhaps by covering my journey from dirt farmer's son to successful military officer and business executive, I will be able to enlighten others on how difficult situations may be overcome and success achieved.