Brian Garcia served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Captain. 

As a Field Artillery Officer, Mr. Garcia demonstrated exceptional leadership and tactical expertise throughout his military career. As a Battery Fire Direction Officer and Battalion Fire Support Officer, he played a crucial role in coordinating artillery support for combat operations, ensuring precision and effectiveness in battlefield engagements. 

During his time with the 4th Infantry Division, Mr. Garcia deployed to Afghanistan from 2011 to 2012 as a part of Operation Enduring Freedom. His outstanding service and leadership during this deployment earned him the prestigious Bronze Star Medal, recognizing his meritorious service and exceptional performance in a combat zone. He also received the Operation Enduring Freedom Campaign Medal for his service in Afghanistan. 

Following his distinguished military career, Mr. Garcia transitioned to civilian life with a continued commitment to excellence. He pursued higher education at the University of Michigan, where he earned both a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Public Policy (MPP), building upon his leadership skills to prepare for new challenges beyond military service. 

Mr. Garcia’s dedication to service extends well beyond his active-duty years. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of Common Defense, where he advocates for veteran causes and ensures the voices of former service members are heard in policy discussions. Recognizing the challenges many veterans face, Mr. Garcia has become particularly involved in suicide prevention initiatives, regularly hosting discussions aimed at addressing this critical issue within the veteran community. 

His commitment to his fellow veterans is further demonstrated through his personal mentorship efforts, where he provides one-on-one guidance to service members transitioning from military life to higher education and careers in the commercial sector. Through these efforts, Mr. Garcia continues to exemplify the leadership, dedication, and service that characterized his military career, making a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans across the country.