Bucky grew up in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. A standout athlete at Broadway High School, he excelled in football and wrestling. As a four-year starter in wrestling and a three-year starter in football, he earned recognition for his skill, dedication, and leadership. He was a two-time AA state wrestling champion and a three-time All-American through the Mid-Atlantic Wrestling Association. After graduating in 2004, he wrestled for two seasons at James Madison University.

In March 2008, driven by a deep sense of duty, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. After completing training at Fort Benning, Georgia, he was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York. In April 2010, he deployed to Afghanistan, where he led numerous missions as a weapons squad team leader during dismounted patrols and as a lead gunner during mounted movements. On June 12, 2010, Bucky was killed when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device.

His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and through a tradition at his high school. At every home football game, soldiers are honored, and his number 21 remains unworn—until the final game, when a player who embodies Bucky’s heart and spirit is chosen to wear it.