After attending college, Jerry Peters worked in a family-owned business for many years in the transportation industry. Later he went on to start his own construction business as a general contractor. But soon, that job was too mundane for an adventurous spirit. So, in 1992, Jerry Peters graduated at the top of his class to become a Deputy United States Marshal. A career that would give him a variety of adventures as he served felony warrants, worked in covert operations, shielded those in the witness protection program, and protected federal judges who had been threatened. After retiring from the Marshals Service, Jerry worked with the Department of Defense and Department of State as an Anti-Terrorism expert.

Jerry’s service has carried him to four continents, allowed him to work alongside elite operators in a variety of high threat assignments, and culminated with three tours in Afghanistan as a member of Operation Enduring Freedom.

However, an unwavering devotion to one’s country does not mean a life without pain and suffering. Throughout his career, Jerry has sustained many injuries related to his selfless service. Injuries that have required multiple surgeries, years of rehabilitation and a life filled with mental, emotional, financial, and physical pain.

To cope with the negative effects of that pain and to help others who had encountered similar issues, Jerry founded a non-profit organization that works with First Responders and Veterans who are fighting their own service-related battles. In the process, he has gained recognition from his peers as an effective provider to those in need. An effort that has helped him understand and endure his own personal battles.

Although his government training prepared him for physical endurance and tactical response, it did not prepare him for the effects of debilitating injuries. Therefore, Jerry has made an earnest effort to study PTSD, Mental and Emotional Trauma, Spiritual Preparedness, and many other issues related to stress and trauma recovery. He has also gained status as a Level One Provider of Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), a Peer Support Specialist, a Certified Life Coach, Certified Mental Health Coach, Endorsed First Responder Chaplain, and an Ordained Minister. His Coaching specialties include Moral Injury, Cognitive Transformation and Veteran and First Responder Mental Health.

A peer of Peters’ says, “He does a great job because of his positive and encouraging attitude”. Dr. Huddleston, who witnessed Jerry working with trauma victims said, “He is one of the best I have ever seen, when working with those in need”. A friend and career U.S. Army Col. Scott McChrystal stated, “Jerry not only cares about our veterans and first responders, but he has walked in their boots and understands their unique needs”.

Without question, Jerry has the respect of his peers. From Military commanders, elite operators and First Responders, Jerry has proven to be a caring and trustworthy man. He is not only respected for his ability as a provider but also as a warrior who is more than capable in any situation he encounters.  

That buoyant and committed attitude of Peters has also been a testament to his family, including his wife, Cherie. She says, “He keeps moving forward and doesn’t understand the meaning of quit, no matter what comes his way.” An attitude that helped both face the disabling injuries that affected their 19-year-old son, Joshua, who sustained permanent physical damage when he and his team were ambushed in Iraq in 2001.

Jerry is a keynote speaker, published author, world class instructor, caring provider, faithful friend, and a consistent warrior. He is always ready to do battle for the things he believes in and on behalf of those who need him the most.