Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Sawall.
Hi Nick, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
The Memphis chapter of Irreverent Warriors began with a simple but powerful idea: bring veterans together through camaraderie, humor, and shared experience. In 2016, Nick Sawall and a group of veterans started organizing the Silkies Hike in the Memphis area, inspired by the original Irreverent Warriors movement that began in California. These early hikes were grassroots efforts, focused on building connection and community among veterans who often felt isolated after leaving the military.
The hikes quickly gained traction. Veterans from all branches began showing up—not just for the physical activity, but for the sense of belonging and support. The events were lighthearted, often featuring military humor and inside jokes, but they carried a serious purpose: to combat veteran suicide by fostering meaningful relationships.
In 2019, after three years of organizing independently, the group formally joined the national Irreverent Warriors organization, becoming the official Memphis chapter. This affiliation brought new resources, visibility, and structure to their mission, allowing them to expand their reach and impact.
Brad Bell officially joined the leadership team in 2021, bringing his passion and firsthand experience to the forefront. Alongside Nick Sawall, the two have continued to grow the chapter, hosting regular events like the annual Silkies Hike through downtown Memphis, Top Golf outings, bowling nights, and other “vet-togethers” designed to help veterans laugh, connect, and heal.
Today, Irreverent Warriors Memphis stands as a vital support network for veterans in the region. Through humor, shared struggle, and unwavering camaraderie, the chapter continues to fulfill its mission: to bring veterans together and prevent suicide—one connection at a time.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have definitely been challenges along the way. As a veteran organization working in the mental health space, we’re focused on reaching those who are often struggling the most—veterans dealing with isolation, depression, PTSD, and other invisible wounds. That mission presents unique obstacles. Many veterans aren’t always aware of the depth of their struggles, or they may be hesitant to seek help due to stigma, pride, or simply not knowing where to turn.
One of the biggest hurdles is engagement. Our events are designed to be welcoming and low-pressure, but getting someone to take that first step—to show up and connect—can be incredibly difficult. We’ve learned that consistency, compassion, and patience are key. Sometimes it takes months or even years for someone to feel ready to join us, and we’re here when they are.
Another challenge is the nature of the veteran community itself. It’s full of strong, driven, Type A personalities. While that’s part of what makes veterans so resilient, it can also make collaboration and consensus-building a bit more complex. We’ve had to learn how to navigate different leadership styles, perspectives, and experiences to keep the mission moving forward.
At Irreverent Warriors Memphis, we strive to be the catalyst that unites the veteran community. We believe that despite our differences, we share a common bond—and that bond is stronger than anything that might divide us. Our goal is to create a space where veterans can laugh, heal, and support one another, no matter where they are in their journey.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Irreverent Warriors Memphis, our work centers around building a strong, supportive veteran community through connection, humor, and shared experience. We specialize in organizing events that bring veterans together in a relaxed, judgment-free environment—whether it’s through our annual Silkies Hike, bowling nights, Top Golf outings, or informal meetups. These aren’t just social gatherings—they’re lifelines for veterans who may be struggling silently.
What we’re known for is our ability to create spaces where veterans feel seen, heard, and understood. We don’t rely on formal therapy or clinical settings. Instead, we focus on peer-to-peer support, knowing that sometimes the most powerful healing comes from simply being around others who “get it.” Our events are designed to be fun and engaging, but they also serve a deeper purpose: breaking isolation and building trust.
We’re most proud of the lives we’ve impacted. Veterans who were once disconnected have found community, purpose, and even lifelong friendships through Irreverent Warriors Memphis. We’ve seen people come out of dark places, rediscover joy, and begin to heal—all because they showed up and found others who cared.
What sets us apart is our authenticity. Our leadership team is made up of veterans who have walked the same path. We understand the culture, the humor, and the challenges because we’ve lived them. We also embrace the complexity of the veteran community—strong personalities, diverse backgrounds, and different experiences—and work to unite those differences into something powerful.
At our core, we’re not just an organization—we’re a movement. We’re proud to be the catalyst that brings veterans together, fosters connection, and reminds them that they’re never alone.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories is attending the local air show and watching the Blue Angels perform. I was always fascinated by flying—the speed, the precision, the sheer power of it all. Seeing Navy pilots execute those maneuvers with such skill and coordination left a lasting impression on me. That experience sparked a lifelong interest in aviation, and I’m currently working on earning my pilot’s license.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://irreverentwarriors.com/
- Instagram: @iw.memphis
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Ev2YCWPtU/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-sawall-5365055b
