While in the Army, Hunter Bruce was a member of the United States Cavalry. After graduating OSUT training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, Hunter spent the remainder of his career with the 101st Airborne out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky. While in 4th brigade, 1-61 Cavalry, he underwent two combat deployments to Afghanistan. His first tour took place from 2008-2009 during the first major surge of troops into Operation Enduring Freedom.

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Tasked with the security of Paktika and Paktia Provinces, 1-61 CAV created positive relations with local government and coalition forces, protected villages and roads from threat of IED's, and established key outposts in enemy territory. Having seen direct and intense combat, Hunter received his Combat Action Badge and the Army Achievement Medal, as well as the Presidential Unit Citation for efforts in the fight against the Taliban.

 

Hunter's second deployment took place from 2010-2011 in The Nangarhar Province. After completing MTT Sniper School, he was promoted to Sergeant and Dismounted Team Leader within his platoon. 1-61 CAV saw an unprecedented amount of IED contact during this period as well as substantial loss of life. For actions taken, SGT Bruce was awarded the Army Commendation Medal and his second Presidential Unit Citation.

 

Since his separation from the service, Hunter has worked as a Military contractor helping to support the training of our National Guard and continues to focus efforts on helping out the Veteran Community.