From Service to Sentence: Veterans' Stories Behind Bars
Browse real stories submitted by incarcerated veterans or shared with permission.
At OFBL, we believe in the power of second chances—and the importance of honoring those who once served. This space shines a light on the lived experiences of incarcerated veterans across Arizona. Their stories reflect courage, struggle, transformation, and the enduring human spirit. These are not just stories of the past, but of futures being rebuilt.
Robert D.
He served his country for 10 years—then got 18 behind bars for a cannabis sale. Now, he’s building hope from a prison cell.
Brian J.
From service to struggle—and now, a second chance. This Navy veteran is rebuilding his life for one reason: his kids.
Hank M.
Marine. Combat hero. Decorated veteran.
Haunted by war, imprisoned by circumstance—Hank is still standing tall.
Eyugene F.
Combat veteran. Nuclear engineer. Stanford lawyer. Incarcerated, but not defeated—Eyugene is still teaching, still mentoring, still believing.
Frank C.
Released from prison with no ID and no direction, Marine veteran Frank C. is facing the toughest mission of his life: starting over.
Michael W.
At 62, this Army veteran is healing from grief, rebuilding faith, and preparing for a second chance at life.
Trey L.
From combat zones to classrooms to incarceration—Trey is fighting to return home, reclaim his son, and heal on Navajo land.
Michael B.
From a 15-year sentence to a vision for change—Michael’s story proves redemption isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.
Tony C.
From a secret mission in Grenada to a cell in New Mexico—Tony’s journey proves not all warriors wear armor forever.
Bruce S.
He buried his twin, lost his home, and nearly his life.
Now, Bruce is proving it’s never too late to rise again.
Robert H.
From a decorated sailor to a dishonorable discharge... and back to a life of purpose.
Robert’s redemption journey proves it’s never too late to rewrite your legacy.
Harold T.
From robbing drug dealers to saving lives…
Harold found purpose in prison—and peace through pain.
Kevin K.
He fought in Desert Storm...Then fought for his life. Addiction, PTSD, and a liver transplant couldn't stop Kevin's comeback.
Edgardo M.
Army Medic to Inmate, Edgardo's story is one of service, betrayal, and a fight for redemption
Veterans make up nearly 8% of the incarcerated population in U.S. state prisons
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