Tactical Camper's Origin

As someone who has walked—and continues to walk—the path of PTSD recovery, I’m drawn to the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences and to contribute my skills in leadership, technical expertise, and mentorship. With a lifelong love for the outdoors and a career forged through both military and policing challenges, I’ve come to embody the ethos of The Tactical Camper—a philosophy rooted in resilience, adaptability, reclaiming strength through purposeful outdoor experiences, and embracing the shake.

In my hometown of Bala, Muskoka, I developed a deep connection to nature through hands-on experiences—exploring forests, crafting tools, and heading out on canoe and camping trips. Those formative years instilled a sense of resourcefulness and laid the foundation for a life inspired by leadership, resilience, and mentorship. That connection never faded—my exploration of the outdoors continues to this day and remains a vital part of my personal well-being.

My tactical journey began in February 2001 when I joined the Canadian Armed Forces. During my deployment to Afghanistan, I gained firsthand experience operating in complex and unpredictable environments. These experiences cultivated my leadership and decision-making skills under pressure. Over the course of my military career, I completed advanced infantry training and earned formal qualifications in reconnaissance, airborne, demolitions, leadership, and small arms instruction. Yet the most enduring lessons weren’t taught in a classroom. They came from the field—those unrecorded moments that no course ever certifies. Those unofficial lessons shaped my mindset: technical precision under stress, perseverance when there’s no clear end in sight, and the quiet confidence that comes from being tested and coming through.

A standout chapter in my service was representing Team Canada at the CIOR Military Competition in Istanbul, Turkey. Competing alongside NATO members, I took part in physically demanding events including rifle and pistol shooting, a 500-meter obstacle course, utility swimming, and military orienteering. That experience further reinforced my belief in the strength of teamwork, discipline, and determination in the face of adversity.

After completing my military service, I transitioned into law enforcement where I served on the Emergency Response Team (ERT) as a tactical officer and sniper. I attained advanced qualifications including Basic, Level 1, and Level 2 Sniper, Hostage Rescue, Tactical and Operational Planning, Long-Distance Optical Sniper, and Master Police Instructor. These roles demanded sharp focus, precision, and the capacity to lead and execute high-risk operations. But the most impactful lessons came in the silence after the call—the weight of irreversible decisions, and the challenge of leading when the stakes are permanent.

Beyond tactical operations, I rediscovered my passion for teaching and mentorship. As a Coach Officer and Master Police Instructor, I helped develop and deliver training on tactical decision-making, marksmanship, and leadership under pressure. But again, the most powerful teaching moments weren’t in the classroom—they were on the ground, amid real-time chaos. On calls where outcomes shifted by the second, working with officers in staying composed, thinking clearly, and acting with purpose. It was in those moments that I sought to foster the kind of resilience and trust that can’t be taught by the book.

In 2019, a critical incident became a turning point in my career and life, leading to a PTSD diagnosis. Weekly therapy has been a cornerstone of my recovery, teaching me the strength found in vulnerability and the healing power of shared experience. That journey sparked a desire to repurpose what I’ve lived and learned—to help others, especially those from high-stakes professions, rediscover their strength, confidence, and clarity through outdoor challenge and connection.

Operation Tactical Camper is the result of that mission. It’s where my love of the wilderness converges with years of tactical experience, leadership, and mentorship. As someone still on the recovery path, I understand how critical connection and shared struggle are in overcoming adversity. Whether it’s leading wilderness expeditions, teaching survival skills, or supporting others through emotional and physical challenges, I’m driven by a mission to empower others through outdoor adventure and resilience-building.

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This reflection draws on my experiences growing up on the lakes and rivers of Muskoka, leading countless self-directed wilderness excursions, and later retiring as a Sergeant in the Canadian Armed Forces and in law enforcement as a Tactical Officer. The Tactical Camper philosophy is built from a lifetime of outdoor exploration, operational deployments, specialized tactical training during 22 years of uniformed service, and years of PTSD recovery — adapted to guide resilience, preparedness, and leadership in everyday life.