Brian joined the U.S. Army in 1997 and served until retirement in 2024. He did 3 combat tours to Iraq (2004-2005, 2009-2010, and 2019-2020) and received combat action badge for actions against enemy in Iraq. He is currently 100% service-connected disabled by the VA.

"Farmer Veteran Coalition has helped by aligning my farm ventures with like-minded individuals around the U.S."

Mitchells Farm and Market operates as a combat-veteran-owned, direct-to-consumer 1st generation family farm. They focus heavily on sustainable, diversified agriculture and community connection. The farm utilizes a seasonal trailer and farm stand that operates primarily on an honor-payment system. Their raw honey is harvested directly on-site from bees that forage on the surrounding Bullitt County wildflowers. Their blueberry bread and jalapeno cheddar loaves have earned a dedicated local following. They are highly rated for their custom small-batch spicy jams and fruit jellies. They build and sell custom raised garden beds for home gardeners and they offer specialized pet and agricultural farm-sitting services for local neighbors. They are an official Kentucky Proud Member, meaning all produce is 100% grown and harvested locally.

"I was diagnosed with Alpha-Gal Syndrome late in my career. This ultimately led to my retirement. And also led me into not trusting the food chains to provide a safe and nutritious meal for me. Thus, what we use to do in small scale for our family has turned into a larger venture providing quality food to our community. It allows me to continue to serve but in a different manner. Instead of providing physical security, I am providing nutritional security to my family and neighbors."