Anthony Velez is US Army retired, having served his final duty station at Fort Riley, Kansas. Home of the First Infantry Division.
While on active duty, Anthony deployed four times with his unit to Iraq to support Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He earned an Army commendation medal with “V” Device for Valor and a Purple Heart for his injuries sustained after a roadside bomb struck his vehicle in the line of duty. Following retirement, the US Army also awarded him the honorable Saint Christopher Medal. This award is one of the few decorations authorized to wear around one’s neck.
After his military career, Anthony began focusing on his recovery. Following three long years of cognitive and speech therapy, he could go home and start a new life outside of the military. He began pursuing a rodeo career, riding bulls in the PRCA, which led to a tv series that is still currently aired on FX, called BASKETS starring Zach Galifianakis. Anthony was a stunt man and performed many scenes riding bulls and horses.
Anthony went to college at UCO and graduated with his Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice. He strives to stay involved with other veterans returning home from war and need assistance getting back into school.
He also devotes his time to Folds of Honor as a young Jr. Professional board member. He enjoys assisting military families and organizations who want to be apart of giving back.
He lives in Edmond, OK, with his wife Corey and three children, Aidan, Averi, and Blaikley. His family enjoys spending time at the lake on their boat, hiking, fishing, and anything outdoors.
His future goals are to go back to school, work on his Master’s degree, and continue volunteering his time to worthy causes while caring for his wife and children.
Qualifications:
- HAAG Certified Commercial Roof Inspector
- Versico Certified Installer
