As a 2LT, at 21 yrs old, RJ set the record for the youngest US Army Special Forces Detachment Officer (18A) to ever graduate the Special Operations Target Interdiction Course (SOTIC) as a Category 1 Sniper Instructor.
He donates time with multiple 501(c)(3) non-profits for ocean conservation projects as a scientific diver with Force Blue and to help fellow veterans with the Third Option Foundation.
After receiving his third commission, at 45 yrs old, RJ set the record for the oldest candidate to ever pass the US Air Force Special Warfare Officer Phase 2 Selection Course.
RJ is a co-founder of Four Branches Bourbon. The four veteran owners created a rare 4 grain premium bourbon to honor all those who have worked and continue the work in austere environments around the world.
As an Independent Contractor, RJ was SpaceX's first hire for their Astronaut Rescue and Recovery Team. He continues working as one of their team leaders for human space launches and capsule recoveries.
With over 35 years of service, RJ continues working with the Department of Defense and other government agencies on Special Operations, Personnel Recovery, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response operations.