Memoirs of an Outlaw: Life in the Sandbox

Acknowledgments

After I left the Marine Corps and entered the civilian world, I started thinking more seriously about the story I could tell. The Outlaws had experienced so much, bringing us close and forming a bond that is stronger than family. Whether it was playing pranks on one another, having one another’s back in combat, or being a shoulder to lean on when times got rough, these events made us form friendships that will last a lifetime.

The only thing missing was someone whom I felt would be able to relate to my experiences. It wasn’t until a few individuals encouraged me to tell our story that I began to feel some of the anxiety and stress dissipate. Not only did these people give me the confidence I needed to tell our story, but when times were tough and I didn’t have it in me to continue to write, they pushed me and gave me the support I needed to finish the task.

My wife, Melissa, has been my biggest cheerleader since I started writing in 2006. She’s been my shoulder to lean on throughout this whole project. Without her unfaltering love and support, I truly believe I never would have been able to finish writing this book. I am so glad to have met and married such a wonderful and kind woman.

My two little boys, Joshua and Gavin, have given me so much during this time. Their youthful joy and happiness inspired me to continue writing when times were tough. They may not be able to read or understand this book now, but I hope when they do, it gives them a deep understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices our service members make on a daily basis.

If it weren’t for my parents making me write essays for hours on end when I was in middle school, I never would have done my fellow Outlaws justice with this book. Their constant encouragement and dedication to ensure I was able to write well made the story of the Outlaws become a part of written history.

I cannot thank my fellow Outlaws enough for the support they provided me throughout this whole ordeal. Some memories were beginning to fade and some needed clarification, and I always knew I could rely on my brothers to help me out when I needed it most. I personally want to thank Brian Callendar, Daniel Botty, Justin Hall, Tyler Valks, Earlie Walker, Kevin Knox Nunnally, Irving Afraidofbear, Joshua Shearer, Alfonso Nava, Jason Sprenger, Michael Sprague, Larry Rossignol, Christopher Toms, Jeremiah Doub, Tony Russell, Jason Klinger, Jared Hendrickson, Brett Durbin, Jake Rhinehart, Jason Simms, Nicholas Santiago, Ryan Redd, Christopher Amstutz, and David Grove for reading each chapter as I wrote it and providing input along the way. Without your help, I wouldn’t have done the Outlaws justice.

Finally, to all my fellow Outlaws, my time in the Marine Corps may have been short, but I can honestly say that to this day, I have never served with a finer group of men. It is a pleasure to have known you all, and it is an honor to call you my brothers.

Semper Fi.