My name is Marcus Henry, and I have more than 25 years of experience in Communications and Public Affairs across the military, private sector, and federal service. I am currently a writer and editor for the VA Office of Research and Development, where I help share the research, discoveries, and innovations that improve the lives of Veterans. breakthroughs, stories, and science improving the lives of Veterans every day.
My path here has been anything but linear, but every step prepared me for this mission.
My Journey
I am originally from Columbus, Georgia, and I began my career in 1999 as a Combat Photographer in the U.S. Marine Corps. My service took me to places such as Australia, Vietnam, and Japan. During those years, I learned photography with both film and digital tools, and I developed a deep appreciation for capturing stories through images.
From 2003 to 2006, I taught photography to public affairs Marines. That was my first real introduction to strategic communication and the power of shaping a message. Looking back, that classroom is where my interest in Public Affairs truly began.
After leaving the military in 2007, I moved into the private sector and founded a digital marketing company in Las Vegas. I built websites, managed SEO campaigns, and helped small businesses grow their presence online. The work was successful, but constant military moves made it difficult to maintain. Eventually, I sold the business and returned to public service.
In 2017, I returned to government service as a Public Affairs Officer in Maryland. I also trained at the Defense Information School, where I learned alongside the next wave of military communicators.
Serving in Navy Medicine
Florida became home in 2019, when I joined Naval Hospital Pensacola as a civilian Public Affairs Officer. My time there was intense, meaningful, and full of growth. Our facility was among the first in the nation to receive COVID-19 vaccines, and the early days of the pandemic pushed our communication team to perform at its absolute best. Crisis communication, media coordination, internal messaging. We had to get it all right, and quickly.
Working with Sailors, Marines, families, and retirees strengthened my understanding of military communities and their unique communication needs. Pensacola’s deep roots in naval aviation also shaped my perspective, keeping me connected to the people our messages were created for.
Joining VA Research
In December, I transitioned from Navy Medicine to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Research and Development. Now, I tell the stories of the scientists, clinicians, and innovators working to transform Veteran health care. From brain injury research to cancer breakthroughs to advanced prosthetics, I get to translate complex science into stories that matter.
In January, I completed my Master’s in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Georgetown University, an experience that refined my strategic thinking and deepened my commitment to meaningful, transparent communication.
Education
- M.A., Public Relations & Corporate Communications – Georgetown University
- B.A., Communications – University of West Florida
- Training from the Defense Information School (DINFOS) in both photography and public affairs.
Life Outside of Work
I am a father of two girls, ages 10 and 12. Because of my military background, my family has lived in many places, including California, Maryland, Nevada, Virginia, and Florida. Now that we are settled on the Gulf Coast, I spend a lot of time outdoors. I especially enjoy boondocking and off-grid camping, where I can disconnect, build a fire, and enjoy the simplicity of being self-sufficient. I also enjoy electric cars, electric motorcycles, and anything that blends technology with adventure.
I spend as much time outdoors as I can. I’m especially drawn to off-grid boondocking, where I can disconnect, build a fire, and enjoy the challenge of being fully self-sufficient. I also love electric motorcycles, e-bikes, and anything that blends technology with adventure.
When I’m not outside, I’m usually reading. I’m a lifelong nonfiction fan, with a library full of books on motivation, self-help, meditation, and personal growth. I believe in constantly expanding the mind, staying curious, and learning as much as possible.
Looking Ahead
Working in VA Research allows me to combine every part of my career: military experience, public affairs, digital communication, and a passion for meaningful storytelling. I am committed to building trust through clear communication and helping the public understand the impact of VA research on Veterans and their families.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my journey. I am grateful for the chance to support VA’s mission and excited about the work ahead.