Jason

Jason Perry is a former United States Marine Sergeant Major. Jason would serve for 27 years in the Marines and conduct multiple tours of duty to Iraq, Including Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Jason has had a distinguished career as a Marine, having served multiple times as a Marine Instructor at both the 1st and 2nd Marine Corps recruit depots, holding several positions of command and instructional positions during his posting there.

Jason Retired from the Marine Corps and moved over to Australia to pursue a new life and career as a Photographer. Jason has a deep passion for photography and in particular Astrophotography. When you listen to him talk, you can hear the passion he has for it, it’s not just about the photography, Jason has stated that it is about being present in the now, in remote locations away from the hustle of city life, appreciating what nature and the country has to offer.

I have followed Jason around on several occasions and he has been gracious enough to teach me a thing or two about the craft. He has this presence about him when he is out in the wild, this peacefullness and happiness can be observed, as he gazes into the night sky.

Q: Can you share a little about your background, including your role in the military?

A: My name is Jason. I was born in Minnesota and lived there until I was 9 years old. When my mother remarried a Norwegian man, we moved to Norway as a family, and I lived there until I was 16. After returning to Minnesota and finishing high school, I joined the United States Marine Corps.

During my 27 years of service, I held a variety of roles, including Aviation Ordnanceman, Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor, Martial Arts Instructor, Martial Arts Instructor Trainer, and later as a First Sergeant. I retired at the rank of Sergeant Major (SgtMaj-E9).

As a Sergeant Major, I served as the senior enlisted advisor to the commanding officer. My responsibilities included advising on the welfare, discipline, and readiness of the unit, mentoring junior leaders, and maintaining high standards of professionalism. I focused on morale and welfare, addressed issues affecting quality of life and mission success, and ensured open communication between Marines and leadership. I also participated in ceremonial duties and provided input on decisions impacting the unit and the broader force. My goal was always to uphold Marine Corps values and strengthen the unit’s cohesion and effectiveness.

Q: What motivated you to join the military, and how did that experience shape who you are today?

A: When I returned to the United States, I didn’t have a father figure in my life and ended up getting involved with the wrong crowd. I also went through the challenge of seeing my mother go through two divorces while I was still young and immature, which made me rebellious and in need of structure. Deep down, I knew I needed discipline and a fresh start, so after high school, I decided to join the Marine Corps.

That decision shaped me into the man I am today. It taught me compassion for others, creativity, humility, and a dedication to achieving anything I set my mind to. The Marine Corps pushed me to grow in ways I never could have on my own, and along the way, I was fortunate to have incredible leaders who helped mold me into the leader I became.

Q: Can you describe a memorable experience or mission during your time in service that had a lasting impact on you?

A: One of the most memorable moments was from my last deployment to Iraq in 2009 during a convoy through some of the most dangerous cities in the Al Anbar Province, including Ramadi and Fallujah. At the time, I was a First Sergeant (1stSgt-E8), and whenever we convoyed, we had our own security detail positioned near the front of the convoy.

During one mission, one of our vehicles was struck by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). The blast's percussion was intense, and I felt a sinking dread in my chest, fearing we had lost Marines. But what happened next was unforgettable—our security detail immediately sprang into action with incredible courage, not only securing the area but also rescuing the Marines from the damaged vehicle. Thankfully, the injuries were only minor.

That moment reaffirmed for me the caliber of the people I served with. It was a powerful reminder that Marines are willing to risk everything in service to others. Their bravery and selflessness that day left an indelible mark on me, solidifying my belief that I truly served alongside the best warriors and human beings this world has to offer.

Q: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during your transition from military to civilian life?

A: I’d have to say the biggest challenge was just finding my place or purpose in life after service. It wasn’t easy and I had to make sure I stayed creative and busy doing things I loved. The challenge was not getting caught up in my own thoughts of going from an extremely high leadership position to having absolutely nothing to do. The mind can play some serious tricks on you if you don’t get a hold of it. I think my skills from the military and being able to read myself in a way, helped me navigate this so that I din’t become destructive to myself.

Q: In what ways did you struggle with your identity and sense of purpose after leaving the service?

A: Probably just trying to figure out what it was I was supposed to do. I knew I wasn’t done and had more to give in service to others, it just took some time of reflection to really figure out what that was going to be.

Q: How did you discover your passion, and how have these pursuits influenced your life after service?

A: I found it though photography. I didn’t know it at the time, but it slowly developed after having time out in nature and then eventually turned to photographing the stars with beautiful landscapes. It gave me such peace and clarity that I knew I wanted to share it with other people, especially other veterans.

Q: Are there specific coping mechanisms or strategies you relied on to navigate your transition?

A: Yes, definitely physical fitness, meditation, reading books on psychology and the mind. That and staying very close to influential people in my life that I knew would never let me fail or give up, to include my wife.

Q: What role did community support play in your journey, and how did you find connections in civilian life?

A: We moved to an area where we only knew one other couple and it was a bit scary at first but I quickly realised, you attract the type of people around you from the energy you give out. We ended up meeting and creating a whole new family while we were there. It was a huge role, and I quickly realised that incredible people come into your life exactly the right time, when you need that support and it meant everything. I made most connections through our local YMCA and gym.

Q: What advice would you give to other veterans who are currently navigating their own transitions?

A: To just take the time you need to truly become a regular member of society. Don’t rush into finding meaningless work although find something you and survive on of course. We all need to have money. Stay focused, create goals, find a hobby that inspires you and brings you clarity. Always remember that there is a massive support system in your fellow veterans. Also, find a community where you will meet others that enjoy the same things you do.

Q: Looking ahead, what are your goals or aspirations for the future, and how do you hope to make an impact in your community?

A: My ultimate goal for the future is to create a not-for-profit where I will take veterans out and teach them to photograph the night sky. I want to serve others to help them find purpose and their own creativity.