Was Colby Covington in the Military?
Colby Covington, the American mixed martial artist, has been making waves in the world of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) with his impressive fighting skills and outspoken personality. But before he became a professional fighter, Covington had a stint in the military. In this article, we’ll delve into Covington’s military background and explore the details of his service.
Colby Covington’s Military Career
Covington enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2009, at the age of 17. He joined the Marines as a Delayed Entry Program (DEP) recruit, which allowed him to complete his high school education before reporting for duty. Covington’s decision to join the military was influenced by his family’s military background and his desire to serve his country.
Military Training and Service
Covington underwent Basic Training (Boot Camp) at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California. After completing boot camp, he attended Infantry Training Battalion (ITB) at Camp Pendleton, California, where he learned basic infantry skills and tactics.
Covington’s military career was marked by several deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, where he served as a Marine Corps Scout Sniper. As a scout sniper, Covington was responsible for conducting reconnaissance missions, providing overwatch for his unit, and engaging enemy targets.
Military Awards and Decorations
During his military service, Covington received several awards and decorations, including:
- Purple Heart: Awarded for being wounded in action
- Combat Action Ribbon: Awarded for engaging the enemy in combat
- Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal: Awarded for exemplary behavior and conduct
- National Defense Service Medal: Awarded for serving during a period of national emergency
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal: Awarded for serving in Afghanistan
- Iraq Campaign Medal: Awarded for serving in Iraq
Transitioning to MMA
After leaving the military in 2012, Covington began his career in mixed martial arts. He started training at the American Top Team gym in Coconut Creek, Florida, where he honed his skills under the guidance of coaches like Dana White and Mike Brown.
MMA Career
Covington made his professional MMA debut in 2012 and quickly racked up a string of victories. He joined the UFC in 2015 and has since become a top contender in the welterweight division. Covington has faced off against some of the biggest names in the sport, including Kamaru Usman, Rafael dos Anjos, and Demian Maia.
Conclusion
Colby Covington’s military background has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his life and career. His experiences as a Marine Corps Scout Sniper have given him the skills, discipline, and mental toughness that have served him well in his MMA career. While Covington’s military service was marked by challenges and hardships, it has also provided him with a sense of purpose and fulfillment that he carries with him to this day.
Table: Colby Covington’s Military Awards and Decorations
| Award/Decoration | Description |
|---|---|
| Purple Heart | Awarded for being wounded in action |
| Combat Action Ribbon | Awarded for engaging the enemy in combat |
| Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal | Awarded for exemplary behavior and conduct |
| National Defense Service Medal | Awarded for serving during a period of national emergency |
| Afghanistan Campaign Medal | Awarded for serving in Afghanistan |
| Iraq Campaign Medal | Awarded for serving in Iraq |
Bullets: Key Takeaways
• Colby Covington enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2009 at the age of 17.
• He served as a Marine Corps Scout Sniper in Afghanistan and Iraq.
• Covington received several awards and decorations for his military service, including the Purple Heart and Combat Action Ribbon.
• After leaving the military, Covington began his career in mixed martial arts and joined the UFC in 2015.
• Covington’s military background has had a significant impact on his life and career, providing him with skills, discipline, and mental toughness.
