Motivated by generations of Veterans in his family, Austin joined the U.S. Marine Corps on his 18th birthday.

During his 4 years in the military, Austin was a cyber network operator. He was deployed to Quate, Iraq, in 2017 and also went to Dubai in 2018 for a training op.

He describes his military experience as organized, chaotic, and adventurous.

“I got to travel the world, learn new things every day, meet new people from all over the world, and it’s just an overall great experience.”

One of those “great experiences” includes getting his tattoos. Austin recalls sneaking off base with his military buddies, going to a random tattoo parlor they found, and all getting inked up.

He says he got his dad’s name tattooed because he was someone he looked up to and always wanted to be like growing up. He also has a common Marine tattoo, the eagle, globe, and anchor on his chest.

“I don’t regret any of my tattoos… I’d do it over again if I had to.”

Austin says he struggled after the military, but with the support and friends and family, he was able to get back on his feet. Now, he does what he loves — help Veterans. He works with Veteran Adviser Consulting.

“It’s a really good feeling hearing that it’s gonna make a huge difference in their life, and I’m just glad I get to be apart of it.”