Served as community outreach representative for the U.S. Attorney's office from 2014-2017, involving outreach and crime prevention initiatives.

An Iowa farm boy, he lettered in four sports, playing quarterback at 165 pounds the same year he was state wrestling champion at 127 pounds.

Served as resident legal advisor at the American Embassy in Pristina, Kosovo in 2008. Special advisor to special prosecutor's office in Kosovo. Served as resident legal advisor at the American Embassy in Podgorica, Montenegro from 2008-2010.

Awarded Respublika Crna Gora Orden Crnogorski E Zastave II, Stepana Presidential Award for excellence in support to Montenegro's legal system by President Filip Vjunovic in 2011. Awarded Attorney General's Superior Performance Award by Attorney General Eric Holder in 2011 for superior service in Montenegro as resident legal advisor.

Retired Army Colonel with 32 years active and reserve service. Active duty in Vietnam, Bosnia, Hercegovina, and Haiti. Airborne and psychological operations qualified. Awarded German Bundeswehr Psychological Defense Badge (Bronze) and U.S. Army Parachutist Badge.