TSgt Bryenna Brooks-Mcconnell speaks on the harrowing RPG attack her convoy was hit with on June 3rd, 2011, being awarded the Purple Heart, and a 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year for the Air Force. Bree goes in-depth on the day she was attacked and the depression, PTSD, and TBI struggles that played a major role afterwards. She also gives us hope and inspiration as we hear how she has fought for herself and her family to live a happy and purposeful life. She is still serving today!
Conversation time-stamps w/Youtube video links
0:00 – Intro
2:45 – what celebrity would play you in a movie
3:43 – What’s you dream assignment?
4:40 – What are you reading right now?
8:40 – Proudest Air Force moment?
10:30 – Whiteman AFB Wall of Heroes
13:08 – Why being a 12 OAY is the best (and worst) thing ever
18:00 – Where Bree grew up (hint: she’s a Packers fan)
21:33 – Bree’s Purple-Heart Story (Taliban Attack)
31:20 – The Aftermath – Medal Ceremony
35:30 – How did your co-workers treat you upon return to the U.S.?
38:20 – Real world mission (deployed) versus creating work (stateside)
41:27 – The struggle of making rank
7:50 – “If not promoting brings you to tears, you’ve gone too far”
52:30 – The WORST time you missed out on promotion (the is brutal)
57:00 – Step promotion surprise!
1:00:20 – The KEY to making MSgt quickly
1:02:20 – The power of mentors
1:05:00 – “My lowest point” – Representing the AF w/bout of PTSD/TBI
1:10:15 – When being labeled “the best” backfires – Toxic workplace
1:13:40 – Traumatic Brain Injuries and Mental Health Therapy
1:21:20 – Placing “Therapy appointment” down on your shared workplace calendar
1:26:22 – The pressure to save lives mid-crisis
1:28:40 – Retirement plans
1:29:50 – What does having a Purple Heart mean to you?
1:34:50 – Why I love Bree so much
1:35:30 – My afterthoughts on the talk w/Bree and I read some fan mail (Cory Deschenes)
