Brian was born and raised in the Inland Empire. Upon graduating high school in June of 1998, Brian joined the Marine Corps at 17 years old. After basic training, he reported to the School of Infantry to train as an Infantry Assault-man and was assigned as a Gunner with the “Dragon Section” of Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines. During his first tour of duty, he served twice with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit as the forward deployed military force in the Western Pacific. During his second deployment aboard the U.S.S. Essex, he re-enlisted for another four years of service to our country and was assigned to the Weapons and Field Training Battalion at Camp Pendleton. He served two tours from January 2002 through April 2004 as a Marksmanship Instructor, Range Coach, Primary Marksmanship Instructor, and Designated Marksman Instructor. He trained entry level recruits through experienced sustainment level shooters in rifle and pistol marksmanship. Brian returned to the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines including one combat tour from Aug ’04 – Mar ’05, fighting in the streets of Ar Ramadi, Iraq under intense enemy contact as the Platoon Sergeant of a Mobile Assault Platoon and was awarded a Navy Commendation Medal with Combat Valor and a Purple Heart for being wounded when a roadside bomb detonated near his position. His final deployment was to the Western Pacific with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit before his final discharge in August ‘06. Oher awards were the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Iraq Campaign, Good Conduct (2), and Humanitarian Service Medals (2). After eight years of service and four deployments in 12 foreign countries, Brian found his civilian calling through Veteran’s organizations, including 13 years of active involvement with the American Legion, including as Commander of the Honor Guard (for funeral details) at Newport Beach, Post 291 and on its Executive Board as 1st Vice Commander, and on the District (Orange County) Board as Sergeant-at-Arms. He also led Peer Support groups for 3 years. Brian was recognized in 2022 as Veteran of the Year for Newport Beach, as the City’s representative for the California Legislative 74th Assembly District, and also as the City of Westminster Veteran of Distinction representative for the 48th Congressional District of California. Brian resides in Westminster.