PETTY OFFICER JUSTIN BROWN

DoD Warrior Games 2024 Team Australia Competitor

ADF service: I joined the Royal Australian Navy in August 1995 as a Boatswain’s Mate. In June 2004 I transferred to become an Imagery Specialist (photographer).  In January 2013 I deployed to Afghanistan as part of Operation Slipper. The highlight of my career has been attending ANZAC Day in France as a photographer and working on the search for Malaysian Airlines MH370.
I am currently posted to Navy Imagery Unit East as the Imagery Operations Manager.

Other information: I have a wife, Gail, and together we have two sons, Samuel (17) and Bennet (14).

Age: 49

Hometown: Sanctuary Point, South Coast, New South Wales

Current town: Sanctuary Point, South Coast, New South Wales

Competing in: Archery, indoor rowing, shooting and sitting volleyball

What is the nature of your injury or illness? Major depression and anxiety.

Sport background: Growing up I played a few team sports but never really succeeded. I concentrated on outdoor activities including surfing and other watersports. As an adult I have been doing more individual activities, including kiteboarding, stand up paddle boarding, snow skiing and archery.

What role has sport played in your rehabilitation? Sport has provided a relief mechanism to allow me to forget about all the problems I am having. It also allows me to reset.

How did you feel when you were told you made the Warrior Games team? I was excited but also nervous.

What is your greatest achievement to date? My family.

Why did you apply for Warrior Games? It was a spur of the moment decision. I wanted to meet more serving and ex-serving personnel that were undergoing their own challenges.

What will “winning” look like for you at the Games? By going to the Games and making new friends I have already won. It’s not about putting a medal around your neck; it’s about the effort applied and the new friendships made.

Who is supporting you at the Games? My family will be cheering me on from home.