Meet Adaptive Athlete: Brandon Gilleland

Brandon Gilleland grew up between Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Campwood, Texas. Wide open places where horseback riding, rodeo, and ranch life weren’t just hobbies, but a way of life. He joined the Army in 2009 as a diesel mechanic and later deployed to Iraq as a recovery specialist. Toward the end of his service, he began transitioning into a psychological operations unit and entered airborne school.

 

In 2018, Brandon experienced a parachute malfunction during training. Years of limb salvage attempts followed, but after another injury and extensive consideration, he moved forward with amputation. Post-injury, he discovered snowboarding, scuba diving, and surfing, but it was bodybuilding that gave him purpose and clarity. Fitness became his medicine, and mental health the result.

 

His recovery hasn’t been linear, but through trial, error, and perseverance, Brandon has built a strong foundation. At ATF, he’s looking to expand his toolbox, learn new performance techniques, and see just how far his body can take him - physically, mentally, and beyond.