Mike was in uniform for just under 30 years participating in multiple combat and operational deployments in Latin American, SE Asia, Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria. The first half of Mike's military career was spent on the conventional side, then switched to an assignment with the US Army Special Operations Command at Fort Bragg North Carolina. In addition to Mike’s military service, both of Mike’s adult sons are currently serving in the Army. In 2014 Mike and his youngest son were both deployed to Afghanistan together.

Mike’s current passions are directed at supporting the community that has been so good to him the last 29 years. It saddens him to see so many of his Veteran family members take their lives, struggle everyday with addiction and mental health disorders then become houseless. Mike understands and knows there is more he can do to help and made the decision to join the team at Virtue Recovery Centers to have a direct impact on those that need support and assistance to navigate the process.

After retiring from the Army Mike participated in a Thru-Hike of the Pacific Crest Trail in 2021, completing all 2653 miles sponsored by Warriors Expeditions. Earning the trail name “AWOL” Mike personally understands the significance and importance of outdoor therapy in helping military Veterans with PTSD.