Abandoned at 4, Marine by 17: Mike’s Journey from China to the Frontlines of Afghanistan | Part 1 | BTD Ep. 15

Abandoned in China at age 4. Marine Corps boot camp by 17. Combat patrols through Helmand Province.

In this raw and powerful first installment, Mike takes us deep into his childhood in China, the culture shock of coming to America, and how trauma and brotherhood shaped his path into the Marine Corps. He opens up about being thrust into a warzone, surviving a deadly ambush, and carrying the weight of losing a mentor in battle.

This episode isn't about politics or hero worship — it's about what it really means to be forged in chaos and survive.

🎙️ Part 2 drops next week, where we unpack his law enforcement journey, mental health struggles, and what life looks like beyond the dispatch.

#MarineCorps #CombatVeteran #FirstResponderStories