Our Warriors
Many combat veterans struggle to find purpose after leaving military service. At Warriors For African Wildlife (WFAW), we provide veterans—primarily from Iraq and Afghanistan, while welcoming all combat veterans—with the opportunity to serve again in a mission that truly matters.
WFAW deploys veterans alongside African conservation professionals and anti-poaching rangers to protect endangered wildlife and support local communities. Working under African leadership, our Warriors listen first and share skills where requested, assisting with training in firearms safety and marksmanship, emergency medical and stop-the-bleeding care, tactical awareness, and communications—always in support of local expertise.
For many Warriors, returning to the field restores focus, connection, and purpose. Walking in the African bush demands constant awareness, teamwork, and responsibility—bringing a clarity that helps quiet the mind and restore balance.
Founded by Brad Craven, with over 11 years of boots-on-the-ground experience in Africa, WFAW is built on trust, leadership by example, and shared sacrifice. Through renewed mission and selfless service, our current Warriors are finding healing, strength, and direction—while contributing to the protection of wildlife and the sustainability of local African communities.
Meet a few of our Warriors who, in their fight to save wildlife and sustain local African communities, have rediscovered purpose, connection, and a renewed sense of well-being.
Aaron
Austin
Austin
A dedicated conservationist, instructor, and WFAW Board Member, Aaron utilizes his military background to empower anti-poaching units in South Africa.
Aaron's foundational experience was built over five years in the U.S. Army, where he specialized in reconnaissance and surveillance with the 10th Mountain Division, including two combat tour
A dedicated conservationist, instructor, and WFAW Board Member, Aaron utilizes his military background to empower anti-poaching units in South Africa.
Aaron's foundational experience was built over five years in the U.S. Army, where he specialized in reconnaissance and surveillance with the 10th Mountain Division, including two combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. WFAW provided Aaron with a new, vital mission post-service, allowing him to reconnect with a community of veterans and use his specialized skills for good, which has been a powerful and positive anchor in his life.
During his five deployments with WFAW, Aaron has been instrumental in the training program. He has instructed field rangers in critical areas like advanced firearm use, specialized communications procedures, and tactical medical treatment, ensuring they are equipped with the highest level of life-saving skills. His personal dedication is reflected by his completion of basic and advanced field ranger courses, along with all necessary South African certifications for personal and business firearm use.
Austin
Austin
Austin
I joined the United States Army as an 11B Infantryman in 2017, and served a total of four and a half years. After passing Infantry OSUT and arriving at my unit, I tried out and joined my battalion's Sniper Section. In 2021 I became a certified Sniper after graduating Sniper School at Fort Benning. I have been on two deployments to Europ
I joined the United States Army as an 11B Infantryman in 2017, and served a total of four and a half years. After passing Infantry OSUT and arriving at my unit, I tried out and joined my battalion's Sniper Section. In 2021 I became a certified Sniper after graduating Sniper School at Fort Benning. I have been on two deployments to Europe in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve, and achieved the rank of Sergeant (E-5).
After leaving the Army I felt like I still had more to offer. I did not have a purpose or a mission to strive for. WFAW gave me that mission driven purpose again. Now I find motivation and purpose in training, operating, and assisting in all aspects of wildlife conservation in Africa.
Victor
Austin
Victor
I served in the United States Marine Corps, completing multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. After transitioning out of active service, I spent years searching for a purpose that matched the intensity, discipline, and sense of mission I had known in the military. Like many veterans, I discovered that the unique experiences of comb
I served in the United States Marine Corps, completing multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. After transitioning out of active service, I spent years searching for a purpose that matched the intensity, discipline, and sense of mission I had known in the military. Like many veterans, I discovered that the unique experiences of combat and service don't always translate easily into civilian life.
In WFAW, I found not only an opportunity to apply my skills, but also a path toward fulfillment and healing. The organization’s mission spoke directly to my desire to continue serving a cause greater than myself- one that demands the same commitment, resilience, and teamwork that defined my time in the Marine Corps.
Through WFAW, I’ve trained and learned alongside experts in the field and witnessed firsthand the impact our efforts have on wildlife conservation as well as the direct impact to the community. This work has reminded me of the value veterans bring to meaningful missions long after our military service ends. I am grateful for the purpose WFAW has given me and proud to contribute to such an important cause.