Episode Details

This week’s Urban Valor episode features retired Marine First Sergeant, Nelson Coburn. Nelson grew up in Brooklyn, NY. His biological father spent most of his life in prison, which ultimately took his life. Nelson spent approximately 22 years in the Marines. He began as a mortarman and served as a Drill Instructor, Marine Security Guard, Scout Sniper Platoon Sergeant, and Personal Security Detail for the Commanding General. Nelson repeatedly found himself in trouble throughout his enlistment, but always managed to work his way out. After sustaining a training injury, Nelson woke up in the middle of surgery to two Corpsman drilling a metal rod through his knee, which was supposed to end his military career. However, Nelson’s determination to stay in the Marine Corps beat the doctor’s odds.