In 1989, John Masson enlisted in the U.S. Army as part of his family's multi-generational tradition of military service. He has served in the 1st Armored Division in support of Operations Desert Shield/Storm, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the Indiana Army National Guard with the 151st Infantry Detachment (LRS). John earned a RANGER Tab as well as his Green Beret and Special Forces Tab. In 2006, he was deployed as a Special Forces Medical Sergeant (18D) with the 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2008, he deployed again in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Two years later, he deployed to Afghanistan.

On October 16, 2010, while conducting Village Stability Operations in Kandahar Province, John stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED) losing both his legs and his dominant left hand. Immediate medical treatment was given to John from by his fellow Medical Sergeant and teammates saved his life. John was then taken to his family and friends at Walter Reed Army Medical Center for further surgeries and recovery. While working countless hours with an amazing staff of doctors, nurses, therapists and volunteers, John was medically retired from the Army in 2012 having served for sixteen years.

“Having an amazing team behind you that understands the needs and struggles of a disabled individual, such as The Gary Sinise Foundation, opens up many avenues of kindness, accessibility, and love, making our “new” lives as close to normal as possible.”

- John Masson