My name is Michael Pugh, and I am an honorably discharged U.S. Army combat veteran.

I served on active duty for several enlistments with the 3rd Infantry and 82nd Airborne Divisions, as well as a platoon sergeant in the 4/160 Infantry California National Guard, where I graduated from many schools, including Airborne, Jumpmaster, Jungle Warfare, and Ranger Schools.

During my service, I amassed a distinguished record and am a highly decorated soldier.

After being discharged, I studied at San Diego State University, where I was awarded a merit scholarship at Oxford University, England.