RAZORWIRE ART by VERNON WALKER

My name is Vernon Walker. I was born and raised in the cities of St. Marys and Witchita, Kansas. I have roots on the family farm in the City of St. Marys. 

I grew up creating art, that is, when I wasn't fishing, camping, hunting, or anything else I could do outdoors. Growing up, I was always the best artist in my age group. I started winning contests as early as the 6th grade. My first win came when I created the class logo. I sold my first work of art at the age of 14.

I put down the pencil, and picked up the rifle when I joined the Marine Corps. I graduated high school a semester early just to serve my country that much sooner. I definitely got that opportunity when the 9/11 attacks occurred during my last semester in school.

Boot camp pushed me harder than I thought possible. After that, training became even more physically demanding. I was an infantry rifleman and mortarman. My unit (3⁄4 Kilo, 1st Mar. Div.) led the invasion into Iraq in 2003. We were in 21 combat operations before taking down the famous statue of Saddam Hussein to symbolize the fall of the dictator and the end of the invasion.

I ended up having severe PTSD, which led to me being involved in two first-degree murders. It was a horrible period in my life. I shattered other peoples dreams in the process. I shut myself off from the world for the next 20 years, including my loved ones.  

After many years of coping with my PTSD in a negative way, I have dedicated my life to bettering myself. I am now in a position that allows me to make amends for my very destructive actions. 

By bringing joy to people's lives through art, I can create positivity in this world. I donate my time painting murals at my facility and mentor aspiring artists in the process. 

I really enjoy creating portraits of loved ones for clients. I can see the happiness that comes over them when they see the finished product. They are gifts that last for many years.

-Vern