Arlington, Virginia, United States
Experienced journalist, historian, and veteran Marine Corps officer. Served tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan during the War on Terror. My various assignments in uniform included tours with 2d Tank Battalion in Camp Lejeune, NC, the Armor School in Fort Knox, KY, and 1st Tank Battalion in Twentynine Palms, CA. Prior to my time in the Marine Corps I worked as a television journalist in Maryland and Missouri. I have covered nearly every type of story from breaking news to long-form investigative pieces. I have written extensively and lectured on matters of military reform and Manœuvre Warfare. My work has appeared in the Marine Corps Gazette, Fires Bulletin, Task & Purpose, and Small Wars Journal, and many others. I make an average of 100 appearances a year in a variety of media outlets discussing matters of military reform to include appearances on the MSNBC, Fox News, The Wall Street Journal, and in The Washington Post. I am a 2000 graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, a 2012 graduate of the Marine Corps Expeditionary Warfare School, and Norwich University.
Research matters relating to the national defense with a focus on areas for reform; prepare for publication articles, reports, and press statements about the organization’s work; appear on all media platforms to discuss military reform; meet with legislators and staff members to lobby for issues relating to a more effective and affordable military. Published more than 125 reports, op-eds, columns, and blogs. Average 100 media appearances a year.
Responsible for monitoring and maintaining the daily operations of the battalion; preparing reports to facilitate the operations officer and the commanding officer’s understanding of the unit’s current posture; planning future operations to ensure effective implementation; coordinating for support with both internal and external agencies.
As the executive officer of the team, I coordinated training schedules and facilities for the 18-man team. I undertook intense language and cultural training for a deployment to Afghanistan. The mission was cancelled prior to our departure.
Maintained constant situational awareness of combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan: provided Commanding Officer up-to-date information to facilitate rapid decision-making: managed daily performance of the watch floor personnel to ensure efficient operations.
Responsible for the training and readiness of nearly 100 Marines and officers: established effective battle-rhythm to balance mission accomplishment and the well-being of those in my charge.