Stanton Smith is a U.S. Army veteran who has turned his deepest struggles into powerful leadership. As a former military police officer and current disabled veteran, Stanton has fought through significant difficulties in navigating civilian life and within himself. And his most profound challenge came from striving the emotional burden of being a widowed single father raising his daughter and rebuilding a future from pain and loss.

Born into a military family in Arlington, Texas, Stanton understands the weight veterans carry as they transition from service to civilian life. His journey is a testament to resilience and the belief that true strength lies not in merely surviving but in pushing through hardship to thrive. Currently a student at Tarrant County College, Stanton is relentless in his pursuit of not only his own success but the success of every veteran he touches.

Through Courage to Strive, Stanton has dedicated his life to guiding veterans out of the darkness of their past and into a future filled with purpose and fulfillment. He leads with empathy, born from experience, and a drive to transform adversity into opportunity. Veterans don’t just need resources—they need someone who’s walked their path and emerged stronger. Stanton is that guide, showing that no matter how difficult the road, you can rise, you can rebuild, and you can thrive.