Paul began his military journey in 1986, enlisting in the Mississippi National Guard while still in high school. He completed Basic Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and went on to Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he trained as a 13F Fire Support Specialist. After graduation, he returned home to serve with the 2/114th Field Artillery in Starkville, Mississippi, while pursuing a degree in Respiratory Therapy and Biology at Mississippi State University and Hinds Community College.

Paul later transitioned to the U.S. Army Reserves, where he served in both the 2nd Maneuver Training Command and the 87th Military Assistance Command. After several years of honorable service, he left the military to focus on his civilian career as a Respiratory Therapist.

Driven by a continued passion for learning, Paul later earned a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Political Science from Belhaven University.

In 2007, missing the camaraderie and brotherhood of military life, Paul re-enlisted in the Mississippi National Guard, joining the 31st Regional Operations Command. He eventually returned to his former unit, the 2/114th FA, before completing his distinguished military career with the 184th Expeditionary Sustainment Command. Paul deployed to Afghanistan in 2012–2013 with the Mississippi National Guard and officially retired from the military in 2021.

Even in retirement, Paul’s commitment to service never wavered. He continues to support his fellow veterans through the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA), proudly living out the organization’s motto: “Vets Helping Vets.”