I proudly hail from Louisiana, specifically a high-risk neighborhood in East Baton Rouge Parish. My transformative experience with the US Marines from 1985 to 1993 has significantly shaped my outlook on life. Drawing inspiration from my military background, childhood encounters, and work with disabled veterans at DFW nursing homes, I took the initiative to establish two commendable outreach organizations and bridge 5 Dallas / Fort Worth governmental bodies for dealing with disenfranchised military personnel in our community. I am fervently committed to addressing challenges such as homelessness, benefits, Christian family life, incarceration, and mental health.
Throughout the early stages of my career, I eagerly delved into base administration and sought temporary assignment duty (TAD) opportunities to further develop my professional skills. I enthusiastically took on various roles, including serving as an assistant in base legal and in the S3 and S4 sections in military chapels. Following my impactful assignment in Okinawa, I assumed the role of legal NCO for the Headquarters Battery, the 12th Marines Regiment. In this capacity, I proactively crafted operational procedures and workflows for command sections, culminating in developing a comprehensive manual. Despite being a Lance Corporal then, I took on responsibilities typically designated for a staff NCO and was honored with accolades such as a commendation, a meritorious promotion, and a personal Letter of Commendation from my commanding officer.
In 2006, I proudly established and led Veterans for Christ – Corp, an organization dedicated to providing unwavering support to military personnel facing many challenges, all rooted in Christian values. Leveraging my Marine Corps administrative background, personal experiences, and academic training, I have dedicated myself to serving disenfranchised military personnel and their families since 2006. My unwavering commitment to serving military personnel, their families, and the broader community is deeply embedded in every facet of my work. Furthermore, I have spearheaded the creation of a distinct uniform with an official logo, an impactful website, and various engaging social media channels to facilitate seamless communication of our ministry events. Additionally, I am proud to hold dual bachelor's degrees in theology and social work and master's and doctorate degrees in Practical Ministry. I am also a certified Texas Mediator, Case, and Project Manager. I am also the author of "Walk of A Soldier," a comprehensive guidebook series designed to equip individuals with the understanding and support needed to assist military personnel and their families effectively.
As a result of my unwavering dedication to providing support for military personnel and their families, I have diligently cultivated collaborative relationships and actively engaged with organizations that share the same commitment. These organizations include the Veterans Coalition of North Central Texas (VCNCT), Congresswoman Eddie B. Johnson's Dallas Veteran Advisory Committee, Congressman Jeb Hensarling's Dallas Veteran Advisory, the North Texas Urban League of Dallas, as well as several other relevant bodies focusing on addressing multifaceted issues affecting military personnel.
Due to my significant contributions, I have received accolades from numerous distinguished organizations, including recognition from Congresswoman Eddie B. Johnson, Texas State Representative Yvonne Davis, and Texas Governor Rick Perry. Additionally, I have been acknowledged by City of Dallas Mayor Michael Rawlings and have had the privilege of participating in speaking engagements with the Congressional Black Caucus. I also had the honor of meeting US President Barack Obama. Furthermore, I was presented with the Southwest Region Conference President Carlton Byrd Community Award and granted a Lifetime Honor Recognition by US President Joe Biden.