From his early days as an Army combat medic, he witnessed firsthand how adversity can either break a person or forge them into something stronger. He saw courage on the battlefield, heartbreak in loss, and the unyielding will to push forward. These moments shaped him—not just as a soldier but as a leader, a mentor, and a student of resiliency.

When Justin led a rifle platoon in Afghanistan, he wasn’t just giving orders; he was responsible for the lives of his soldiers. He learned that authentic leadership isn’t about rank—it’s about showing up when it matters most. Later, as a Company Commander and Intelligence Officer, he navigated high-pressure situations where every decision had weight. Through it all, one truth became clear: The strongest leaders aren’t the ones who never fall. They’re the ones who learn how to move forward, onward, and upward, and lead others to do the same.