He always knew he wanted to be a rescue pilot, serving a higher purpose and rushing to the aid of others in harm's way. Fighting courageously to save lives no matter the terrain or conditions.
His rescues garnered him multiple awards and decorations to include the Jolly Green Association Rescue Mission of the Year Award and a medal for risking his own life to save the life of a critically injured truck driver.
But there was always something bothering him. Something that didn't quite feel right but couldn't be easily explained.
After years of soul searching, consulting his pastor and talking with friends and family, he decided to tell the truth to himself and the world. The decorated pilot, who risked his life for others, came out as transgender and started the process to become his true self.
"In 2017, I suffered a number of tragedies in a short span of time, I felt lost in the ocean with my head barely above water with waves continuously crashing down" said Maj. Jason Vero, Joint Base Andrews Air Show director. "During that period, I did a lot of internal reflection and after speaking at length with my pastor made the decision to transition."
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