Podcast Interview with USMC Combat Veteran Ben Martin

“Ben served as an Assault Amphibious Vehicle (AAV) crewman with the 7th Marine regiment out of 29 Palms, CA. In 2003 Ben participated in the invasion of Iraq with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines. In 2004 and 2005 Ben deployed with the 31st MEU (SOC) out of Okinawa, Japan.   After his enlistment, Ben enrolled in to college and studied writing, web design, and branding between Portland Community College, Pacific University, and the Art Institute of Portland. In between classes he found a passion for small business, which propelled him into agency work and brand management.   In 2012 Ben helped launch a pilot non-profit aimed at rehabilitating veterans through permaculture. This program showed promise that agriculture can be an alternative treatment for Veterans suffering from PTSD and TBI. Looking for inspiration he found that the French Foreign Legion houses over 100 aging Legionaries on a vineyard chateau where they grow grapes, make wine, and find peace. Ben wondered – "Why not here?"   It wasn't until February 2014 that the idea of veteran viticulture re-emerged during a Walla-Walla wine trip with co-founders Ryan Mills and Paul Warmbier. Excited about the possibilities, the three launched Dauntless Wine Company that December!   On May 18th, 2017 Ben was awarded the Wine Studies "Emerging Leader" award for his efforts launching Dauntless Wine Company while attending the program. And in 2018 Ben graduated from the Chemeketa Wine Studies with an AAS in both winemaking and vineyard management.”