EJ Snyder

EJ Snyder is a highly decorated Army combat veteran with 25 years of military service, serving in Ranger positions in Infantry and Airborne units. He retired as a combat veteran, earning significant recognition such as two Bronze Star Medals, the Legion of Merit, the Order of St. Maurice (Centurion), and over 40 other medals and decorations. Snyder grew up in New Jersey and joined the armed forces at 19. His career saw him actively engaged in combat during the Gulf War in 1991 and Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004. While in the Army, he served as a Ranger Instructor, Survival & Tracking Instructor, and Drill Sergeant, earning the name "Skullcrusher."

Snyder's connection to the outdoors and survival skills began in his youth when he explored camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, and trapping with his late brother Jeff, under their father's guidance. This early exposure laid the foundation for his lifelong engagement with survival training. His professional instruction career in survival skills began after his first formal training in survival at the US Army Ranger School. Post-military, Snyder has dedicated over 20 years to teaching survival skills as a Government Contractor at the US Army SERE School, training both soldiers and civilians.

Today, Snyder is recognized both for his military service and his expertise in survival techniques. He is a top motivational keynote speaker and noted survivalist, prominently featured on the Discovery Channel series "Naked and Afraid" and "Dual Survival." Snyder applies a "Train as you Fight" approach to survival, which involves immersing himself in extreme survival situations to enhance his skills and teach others. His personal motto, "Tua Sponte Superstes," which translates to "Survive By Your Own Will," encapsulates his philosophy towards survival and resilience in both controlled environments and unpredictable wilderness scenarios. Beyond his survivalist endeavors, Snyder is actively involved in various veteran and charitable causes.