Nick Lavery didn't have an easy childhood. His parents struggled but instilled in him a work ethic and mental toughness that would define his life. By age 19, he was a college athlete, but the September 11th attacks changed his trajectory. He enlisted and became a Green Beret in 2010.
During his second deployment in Afghanistan, Lavery survived a "green on blue" attack. While shielding a fellow soldier, he was shot multiple times in the lower body. He nearly died twice during medical evacuation and underwent over 30 surgeries, resulting in the loss of his right leg above the knee.
Facing the choice to give up or fight back, Lavery chose to return to combat. Over two years, he trained relentlessly as an amputee, mastering vehicle entry, 12-mile rucks, and climbing ladders in full gear. When his boots hit the ground in Afghanistan, the moment was brief but historic: he became the first above-knee amputee to return to full-spectrum combat operations.
His nickname, "The Machine," came from Afghan children who called him "machine fighter" during his return deployment. The name stuck, and later in Somalia, the same thing happened. Lavery earned the Silver Star, Purple Heart, and SOCOM Excalibur Award. He remains on active duty as a Chief Warrant Officer, runs his MCHN coaching brand, and operates a B2B company. His story is a testament to resilience and sacrifice.