Lieutenant Ryan Bear

Growing up in a rural farming community in central Missouri, Lieutenant Ryan Bear developed an early appreciation for animals. Although he remained fascinated by animals and science, he completed his undergraduate education in 2001 with a strong impulse to serve his community.

As the events of 9/11 unfolded, Ryan was compelled to stand up for the country he loved and viewed service in the U.S. Navy as the ideal path to express these values. As a Naval helicopter pilot, he completed two six-month deployments onboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz to include a combat detachment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005.

Grateful to now have the opportunity to return to his earlier interests, Ryan has enrolled at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University and is pursuing a doctorate in veterinary medicine. He strives to improve health for both animals and humans, educate the public on issues affecting animal welfare and become a respected member of the local business community. Ryan will work to make a lasting impact on society, following in the footsteps of his Naval career.