My name is Patrick Brown, and I grew up in La Marque, a small town between Galveston and Houston, Texas. I learned to praise God daily, respect my elders, and love family. As an only child, I learned never to complain and always to do my best. After graduating from La Marque High, my first job started as a Storeroom Stocker at John Sealy Hospital. I decided after a year that I wanted to see the world, so I joined the U.S. Navy. Navy boot camp training required us to rise at 2 a.m., and I dreaded the floatation exercise because I could not swim. Heck, I even made my two brutal company commanders laugh out loud. I remember one of them saying, Seaman Brown, ‘you will pass the flotation exercise by the end of the week.

At the same time, I joined Fighter Squadron 32. We were attached to the US John F. Kennedy (aircraft carrier), where we deployed to the Mediterranean Sea for six months. I worked as an administrative assistant among my other military duties. In my spare time, I listened to contemporary jazz, R&B, and a little country music like Randy Travis. I traveled to Italy, Spain, the Bahamas, and Jerusalem in the military. When the liberty call came for us, the guys and I had a ball. While I was out on liberty, it was vital to use good judgment, character, and a sense of humor, which are some of my best attributes. A ‘Commitment to Excellence’ was my Squadron’s motto, and I live by it to this day. To succeed in this life, one has to be dedicated and unwavering to accomplish a task or goal.

I knew once I left the U.S. Navy. I was going to college to fulfill another one of my goals which were to help people. For 12 years, I worked full-time as a security guard and went to college part-time. When you genuinely want something, you must be passionate, persistent, and dedicated to achieving your dreams. My mom always told me to study hard and not slack around if I wanted to accomplish something. 

Finally, I gained admittance to the University of Texas Nursing School. My family said the audience erupted at the graduation ceremony after they called my name. I had achieved my diploma and went from being a Security Guard to a Registered Nurse. After completing nursing school, I decided to join the U.S. Army. I entered as a Second Lieutenant and retired as a Captain in the U.S. Army. After seven exciting years, I left the military to begin another chapter in my life. In the meantime, I would enjoy life, family, and friends. One of my favorite past times is fishing off the 61st Pier in Galveston and playing my saxophone for peace of mind.