I’ve lived the literal meaning of the ‘land of the free’ and ‘home of the brave.’ It’s not corny for me. I feel it in my heart. I feel it in my chest. Even at a ball game, when someone talks during the anthem or doesn’t take off his hat, it pisses me off. I’m not one to be quiet about it, either.

I did want to be the top sniper.

But I wondered, how would I feel about killing someone? Now I know. It’s no big deal.

After I was discharged from the military, it was difficult trying to become a civilian.

I just want to get the bad guys but if I can’t see them, I can’t shoot them.

Great way to fight a war - be prepared to defend yourself for winning.

MY REGRETS ARE ABOUT THE PEOPLE I COULDN’T SAVE—Marines, soldiers, my buddies. I still feel their loss. I still ache for my failure to protect them.