july 2025 Hero of the month

Master Sergeant Paul Gage – A Quiet Warrior with a Lifetime of Service

This July, the Peacekeeper Initiative honors Master Sergeant Paul Gage, a 22-year U.S. Marine Corps veteran whose service and sacrifice have continued far beyond the battlefield. From combat zones to fishing trips with fellow veterans, Paul’s mission has always been clear: never leave anyone behind.

A Swift Decision That Changed a Life

In 1992, Paul joined the Marines not after years of planning—but because a classmate did.

“Honestly, I joined because a high school classmate joined,” he says. “Never even considered it until that moment. I was gone to boot camp in three weeks.”

He would go on to dedicate more than two decades to the Corps, officially retiring in 2014. He chose to let his daughter decide what came next:

“I had a good job lined up and gave her the choice—stay in D.C. or move to Florida. We moved.”

Combat, Casualties, and Courage

Though not in a designated front-line role, Paul quickly learned that every Marine is a rifleman. He saw the worst of war firsthand.

“I went to war multiple times. We blew up caves in Afghanistan, engaged the enemy, and did what Marines do.”

But it was the moments off the battlefield that left the deepest marks.

“Receiving live casualties from the battlefield… connecting them directly to give them blood… talking to them until they go to sleep—or expire. No Marine ever died without someone by their side.”

That kind of quiet heroism isn’t found in headlines—it’s lived in heartbreak and honor.

Strength in Silence

The scars of service didn’t disappear after retirement.

“I have PTSD and a lot of physical issues. I don’t broadcast it—I hide it well.”

Paul’s anchor has been his wife, his steady support through it all.

“She is my rock.”

And he’s found purpose in connection.

“Talking with other veterans—having someone to talk to—is huge.”

Healing Waters

While many turn to therapy or solitude, Paul found another outlet: fishing.

“I take veterans fishing to talk to them and help them cope. It’s as much for them as it is for me.”

What started as recreation has become therapy—a lifeline of healing through camaraderie and calm waters.

Wisdom of a Warrior

Paul offers advice rooted in humility:

“Be humble in everything you do. Never, never, never give up.”

And he leaves us with this powerful reminder:

“All wounds are not visible. Love on everyone—you never know what they’re going through.”

Thank You, Master Sergeant Paul Gage

Your 22 years of service in the Marine Corps—and your continued mission to care for others—remind us that heroism doesn’t end with retirement. It continues in the quiet acts of compassion, the honest conversations, and the unwavering commitment to your brothers and sisters in arms.

We are honored to call you our Peacekeeper Hero of the Month.

If you or someone you know is a veteran or first responder struggling with trauma or transition, reach out. You are not alone. The Peacekeeper Initiative is here to walk beside you—on land or water.