Catalyst to Continue Serving

Nathan Deneault

Navy veteran Nathan Deneault reflects on embracing the suck and finding a new mission with Team Rubicon.

Mitigation and recovery work is rewarding and fulfilling. Sweat and hard work amongst bumps and bruises with the occasional scratch are part of the fun. Embracing the suck is common terminology for many members of the armed forces. So it feels good to be doing just that: rebuilding lives, communities, and forging relationships for the future. The smiles on the faces of the people we serve say it all – gratitude. 

Since leaving the military, I’ve been searching for camaraderie. I’ve served in a number of ways after my service in the United States Navy.  Some opportunities I was ready for and some opportunities were too much for me to take on. 

Team Rubicon was the catalyst that allowed me to continue; challenging my mind and body, forcing me to see things differently, and helping me understand and grow within the organization. Leading by example, not just from one person but a collaboration of many.  

Attributes of the membership vary from person to person, but we have one thing in common – we care. That means when the call goes out, we’ll grab our go bags and kiss our loved ones goodbye. The people you find on an operation are amazing and I’m proud to be a part of the tribe.

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