Ryan Burnett: Continuing a Legacy of Service on the Water

I grew up in Florida, where time spent fishing and being on the water shaped both my childhood and my sense of purpose. The ocean was where I learned discipline, responsibility, and respect—values that stayed with me as I grew older.

That sense of service deepened when I attended my brother Jason Keith Burnett’s Marine Corps boot camp graduation. His dedication and courage inspired me to join the Marine Corps myself, a decision that profoundly shaped who I am today. In 2006, Jason was killed in action in Iraq while serving our country. As a Sole Survivor, I made the difficult decision to leave the Marine Corps, carrying forward his legacy in a different but equally meaningful way.

I returned to the maritime world, working aboard fishing and charter vessels from Key West, Florida to Gloucester, Massachusetts. Over time, I expanded my skills and experience at sea while remaining deeply connected to the military and veteran community. Recognizing the importance of pairing experience with education, I returned to school, earning both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree, while continuing to build a career on the water.

Today, I serve as Captain of a research vessel and as Captain of *Sailing for Veterans*. This work allows me to unite seamanship, leadership, and service in support of veterans and Active Duty Service Members. Through hands-on sailing, mentorship, and community engagement, we help service members reconnect with purpose, confidence, and each other.

Sailing for Veterans exists to honor those who have served—and to continue my brother’s legacy by ensuring that no veteran stands alone. What began on the waters of Florida has come full circle, now serving as a platform for healing, service, and forward motion for those who have given so much.