Name:  Dwayne DeSchon

Where were you born and raised?
Born in Morgantown, WV and raised in Winchester, VA

What’s a short story around the biggest transition you’ve faced in life?
As a 24-year SEAL veteran, reflecting on my life’s most significant transition takes me back to the moment I graduated high school, eager and determined. A month after graduating, I found myself on a plane far from the familiarity of my small town.

Enlisting in the military was not just a career choice; it was a leap into the unknown, fueled by a desire to break free from the confines of my upbringing and to test myself. The dream that motivated my ambition was to become a Navy SEAL, the epitome of toughness, discipline, and elite service. The transition wasn’t just about adapting to the rigorous training; it was a profound shift in mindset and identity. I learned the importance of teamwork, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to a greater purpose. The camaraderie among my fellow teammates became the cornerstone of my journey. Becoming a SEAL was more than a personal achievement; it was a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and dedication.

That transition from a small-town graduate to a prospective SEAL marked the beginning of a life defined by service, honor, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Little did I know that my path would lead to a 24-year journey filled with challenges, victories, and a deep sense of purpose. The transition may have been daunting, but it shaped my life in ways I could have never imagined.

What’s the one piece of advice you’d give a younger you?
Learning from those who have walked the same path before you can be incredibly valuable. Take the time to reflect on their advice and consider how you can use it to propel yourself forward.

Your Personal Why?
Is to demand excellence and to bring the best out in those around me, so that I always leave things better than I found them.

How does your Why drive you to be a part of the THF Ecosystem?
My personal “Why” motivates me to be an essential part of the THF Ecosystem. I aim to inspire excellence and bring out the best in my colleagues. I am determined to raise the standard of team members and encourage a culture of motivation and commitment to continuous learning. I strongly believe in leading by example, working hard, and utilizing the unique talents of each team member to achieve collective success. This aligns with my objective of always leaving things better than I found them. By creating high-quality personnel who embody the level of excellence that the THF network requires.

Military Connection or Why do you respect Special Operators?
I served in the US Navy for 24 years with 21 of those years in Naval Special Warfare as a SEAL operator.

Favorite THF Value, and why?
My favorite values would have to be Be Bold and Create Experience because you are always just one “f**k it, let’s try it” away from changing your life.

Area/Industry of expertise:
As a Program Director, Coaching and Mentoring are areas of expertise, as well as Organizational Leadership and innovative problem-solving.

Contact Dwayne directly at dwayne@honor.org