Veteran Strongman Turns Hardship Into Hope

Trent Williams, an Army combat veteran, says a personal tragedy years ago launched him into recovery, duty, and purpose.

After returning from duty, infantryman Williams suffered but rebuilt his life. He is currently a firefighter, a Guinness World Record holder in strength competitions, and an advocate for veterans' and first responders' mental health and substance-use support.

Williams has told various sources about a moment when he understood he had to change course for his family, especially his little daughter. “That was going to be it for me,” he told WTVM, recalling his sadness and choosing to proceed.

Williams said injuries and the adjustment to civilian life were complex after Iraq. Due to painkiller and alcohol addiction, he was homeless and lived near the Oklahoma City VA hospital, losing his military identity. “I didn’t know who I was without infantry,” he added. It was a significant part of me.”

Williams found stable work as a first responder in coastal Georgia, aligning with his inclination to help others in need. He immediately realized the job was emotionally taxing. He joined Stomp Out Stigma, an Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness effort that promotes open discussions about mental illness and addiction, to address that reality.

“First responders aren’t machines,” Williams remarked. “We’re people.”

Williams worked out while recovering mentally. In 2018, he set a Guinness World Record for the most significant weighted triceps dip. He is training to beat that mark while coaching others with similar problems.

Williams told the Coastal Courier about his past in 2019. He stated, “I was addicted to drugs; I was an alcoholic,” and felt detached from his faith and community before changing course.

Williams feels peer support is vital to veteran recovery. He said shared experiences might break down barriers to traditional therapy.

“What I have now, I want others to have,” Williams remarked. His advice to suffering people is always, “Never give up.”