Utah Neal Currey, a social media influencer, gun advocate, and owner of Ready Gunner in Orem, Utah, passed away at the age of 42 on September 10, 2022. He was a former Army Ranger who served five tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. His death has shocked and saddened many people who knew him personally or followed him online. In this article, we will explore the possible cause of his death and the impact he had on the firearm industry and the veteran community.
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A Successful Entrepreneur and Influencer
Neal Currey was the founder and owner of Ready Gunner, a gun shop and online retailer that specialized in tactical gear, firearms, and accessories. He started the business in 2015 after retiring from the military. He wanted to create a place where people could get quality products and expert advice from someone who had real-world experience with firearms. According to his website, he had a passion for guns since he was a kid and learned how to shoot from his grandfather.
Neal Currey was also a social media influencer who had over 68,000 followers on Instagram. He posted photos and videos of his gun shop, his family’s outdoor adventures, and his various business endeavors. He collaborated with other influencers and celebrities in the gun community, such as Evan Hafer, the founder of Black Rifle Coffee Company, and Mat Best, a former Army Ranger and comedian. He also documented his family life, including videos of his kids’ first days back to school and his playful prank on his wife.
A Decorated Veteran and a Loving Father
Neal Currey was a former Army Ranger who served five tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He joined the military in 2000 and was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He participated in several combat operations, such as Operation Anaconda, Operation Red Wings, and Operation Enduring Freedom. He received numerous awards and decorations for his service, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.
Neal Currey was also a loving father of six children: four boys and two girls. He was married to Casey Currey, whom he met in high school. He loved spending time with his family and taking them on outdoor trips. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, surfing, skiing, and camping. He was described by his wife as “the most amazing husband and father” who “loved life more than anyone”.
A Struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Despite his remarkable ability to fight and persevere, Neal Currey unfortunately lost his internal battle and took his own life on September 10th. His wife confirmed his death on Instagram and revealed that he struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition that affects many veterans who have experienced trauma during their service.
According to his obituary, Neal Currey “struggled with the unseen wounds that follow soldiers home from war” and that “the struggle would periodically surface and become an internal war”. His wife also stated that “life is never as perfect as it seems” and that “the struggles we face in life are real no matter who we are”.
Neal Currey’s death has raised awareness about the issue of PTSD among veterans and the need for more support and resources for them. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, PTSD affects about 11-20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF), and about 12% of veterans who served in the Gulf War (Desert Storm). PTSD can cause symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, isolation, and suicidal thoughts.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Generosity
Neal Currey’s death has also sparked an outpouring of condolences and tributes from his friends, fans, customers, colleagues, and fellow veterans. Many people expressed their gratitude for his service, his friendship, his mentorship, his humor, his generosity, and his inspiration. They shared their memories of him and how he impacted their lives.
Neal Currey was known for his generosity and philanthropy. He donated money and products to various causes and organizations that supported veterans, law enforcement officers, first responders, children, animals, and wildlife conservation. He also hosted events and fundraisers at his gun shop to raise awareness and funds for these causes.
Neal Currey’s legacy will live on through his family, his business, his followers, and his beneficiaries. He will be remembered as a hero, a leader, a visionary, a patriot, a husband, a father, and a friend. He will be missed by many who admired and loved him.
