I enlisted in the Coast Guard back in 2001 and was discharged in 2003 after going AWOL. I was stationed on the USCG Rush in Honolulu. I went AWOL for complicated reasons involving my dissatisfaction with my unit, and my realization that the Coast Guard is just another extension of American power abroad while simultaneously treating their own enlistees like property. I was sentenced to a brief stint in the brig at prior to being administratively discharged with an OTH. I don't begrudge those who had more honorable service, but have most enjoyed working with other AWOL/UA servicemembers to help them through the stress and uncertainty that accompanies being AWOL as ways to resolve the situation.
Since being discharged I've worked as an organizer for a healthcare workers union (SEIU 1199NW) and a community/union coalition that mobilizes people to take direct action in support of workers rights and economic justice while also building an organizational coalitions capable of running strategic campaigns (Washington State Jobs with Justice) . I was also briefly the executive director of IVAW back in 2009 before having to resign shortly after starting the position. I'm currently live in Seattle with my wife.
