Shorty grew up bodyboarding along the coast of Oregon. After the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Shorty enlisted in the US Army as an Apache mechanic.
She deployed to Afghanistan in 2003 and maintained helicopters that supported ground troops.
After her deployment, Shorty left the Army and had a difficult transition into civilian life. Surfing has helped her reconnect with the military community.
After the military while living in Virginia Shorty attended “hurricane parties,” or sketchy surf sessions bodyboarding the waves during the storms.
In 2018, Shorty attended a Wake For Warriors event held in Washington.
“When you are around your military buddies, you don’t have to look over your shoulder because you know they have your back," she said. I’m stoked to be able to get to surf and share this experience with my daughter Bennett. Even when you’re tired, you can just float on the water, it’s the most magical thing I ever experienced.”
Story by Matt Fratus