Duke Birch
Why did you decide to serve?

I ran out of money for college and was going to enlist for 4 years, I really enjoyed it, thrived, and was good at it, so I stayed for a couple decades.

VSO Role:

Director of Veteran Programs

Date Joined:

January 2018

Why did you join VSO and how has the experience been for you?

I joined as I had just transitioned out of the military and was leaving the IT company I was with before. Since day one it has been a welcoming challenge to incorporate the different technologies, people, and skills into well oiled and high operating teams. I am as proud of what we have all accomplished in VSO as I am of my time in the Army.

Military Life:

My last position was as the Senior Instructor for the Small Arms and Tactics Trainer Course. Before that I spent years as a Scout Platoon Sergeant and Senior Scout, Drill Sergeant, and Operations NCOIC. I held many supplemental roles as well to include, Project Purchasing Officer, Master Resiliency Trainer, and many other “Additional roles'' that NCO’s and Officers are expected to accomplish alongside their primary duties.

Family Life:

I am married (To my better 90%) and have 3 Children 27, 6, and 2 years old, respectively. I enjoy rugby (Too broken to play now and can only coach) reading, staying in touch with some of my military brothers, gardening, and landscaping. I used to be a Broncos fan but don’t watch too much football anymore (Go Bama, I guess I like Nick Saban’s leadership style). We also enjoy hiking and exploring the beautiful state of Texas with the Family.