Florida Congressman Brian J. Mast’s comment “I’m not going to support an endless war with no defined objectives” was part of his statement detailing his thoughts regarding Congress' responsibility to “implement and define exactly why we’re in Syria." The Army EOD tech veteran is a double amputee who speaks up, and speaks out for veterans, his constituents, and the nation, on numerous subjects from clean water and opiate addiction, to justice for those who've been the victims of MST, like AF veteran Harmony Allen. Mast introduced “Harmony’s Law” and called upon the Supreme Court to hear the case. The law would prevent predators who are convicted rapists in the military from being released from jail. When the news was released regarding the Supreme Court's agreement to hear arguments in the case, Mast stated: ”Today is an incredibly important day for Harmony Allen, her family, and every victim of military sexual assault who has experienced this massive miscarriage of justice."

SSgt Mast enlisted in the Army after high school becoming a combat engineer in 2000, and then an EOD tech in 2006, with the 28th Ordnance Company. While with the 75th Ranger Regiment in Kandahar, during OEF, Mast inadvertently stepped onto an IED resulting in the amputation of both of his legs and one of his fingers. He recalls hearing fellow soldiers speaking, and while listening to them heard, "EOD is hit, EOD is down." Mast stated: “As I'm hearing them radio this up, it was a very out-of-body experience. I'm EOD and they're talking about me."

Awarded the Bronze Star and a Purple Heart, Mast recovered at Walter Reed Hospital until February 2012. During this time, he worked for Homeland Security as an explosives specialist and applied his expertise to a position in the Office of Emergency Operations at the NNSA. Mast continued to stay strong, earning a bachelor’s degree majoring in economics and minoring in both environmental studies and government. Such tenacity has given the veteran an edge in Congress. The disabled Republican is a leading supporter in achieving greater accessibility for other disabled airline travelers who, at times, are subjected to higher scrutiny and searches than able-bodied passengers.

Mast continues to advocate for clean waterways in Florida against stifling algae blooms while supporting fellow veterans. Mast remains working with the Coast Guard promoting safer waterways for Floridian boaters and tourists in his district.