Brandon Rumbaugh

In November of 2007, at the age of 18, after moving out of his parents’ home at the young age of 15, Brandon Rumbaugh joined the United States Marines. Upon completion of boot camp in February 2008, he went on to the Infantry Training Battalion, after which he was assigned to the 1st Battalion 8th Marines. In March 2009, he was deployed to Iraq for a seven- month tour. Shortly after his return home from Iraq in September 2009, Rumbaugh was deployed to Afghanistan, where he was squad leader with the main goal of bringing all his men home.

Having already suffered multiple injuries from IED explosions in the first 3 months of his second tour, Rumbaugh’s life dramatically changed one day during a routine security patrol. As he rushed through mine infested territory attempting to aid one of his Marines who lost both of his legs from stepping on an IED, Rumbaugh triggered a second IED within just 20 feet of his comrade, resulting in the amputation of both of his legs. His left leg is amputated below the knee and his right leg is amputated at the hip.

After spending nearly two years undergoing extensive medical therapy at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, he relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in order to rebuild his life and find purpose again. Having dedicated his life to his country, Rumbaugh is now committed to serving his community through charitable works and inspiring others with his motivational story of perseverance, loyalty, and faith. Rumbaugh is also the CEO of A.C.T Motivational Speaking which stands for “Action Conquers Terror”, where Rumbaugh travels the country sharing his stories of resiliency. Rumbaugh also serves on the advisory board of directors for “It’s About the Warrior Foundation”, a local non-profit that serves post 9/11 veterans through various programs designed to impact the lives of veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much for this country.

Although he has accomplished many great things in his short 34 years of living, Rumbaugh is most proud of being a father to his 4 year-old daughter, Remi Delaine, and his 1 year old son Gunner Daniel.