Sgt. Avila joined the U.S. Army in 2004 as an Infantryman, deploying to Iraq in 2007. On May 14, 2007, his vehicle was struck with a 200 lb IED, resulting in burns to 75% of his body and amputation below the knee of his right leg.Upon retiring from the U.S. Army in 2010, Sgt. Avila never allowed his injuries to slow his success.

Powering through his injuries, he became the current world record holder for the World Association of Bench and Deadlift in the Paralympics category. He also started his own consulting firm, 5 Toes, and dedicated his life to serving his fellow veterans. Sgt. Avila now serves as a liaison for Sons Of The Flag, helping other wounded warriors through their recovery process as well. He continues to motivate wounded veterans and seeks to educate the public about veteran issues through numerous public speaking events and is a sought after motivational speaker.