Proven on Screen. Trusted in the Wild.
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From the Front Lines to the Wild
Get to know EJ Snyder—decorated combat vet, survival expert, and TV icon forged by fire and driven by purpose.
EJ “Skullcrusher” Snyder is one of the world’s top survival experts and a true American badass. A 25-year Army combat veteran, EJ served in some of the military’s most elite units—including Airborne Ranger and Infantry formations—rising to the rank of Sergeant Major. He earned two Bronze Stars, the Legion of Merit, and the Order of Saint Maurice while serving in the Gulf War and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
EJ is known for his unshakable mindset, mental toughness, and a “lead from the front” attitude. A natural-born leader with heart and grit, EJ combines his battlefield experience with deep outdoor expertise honed since childhood—from Scouting and martial arts to survival, tracking, and wilderness navigation.
After retiring from the military, EJ took his skills to the screen. He became a breakout star on Discovery’s Naked and Afraid, surviving six brutal challenges with a combined 206 days in the wild—and zero taps, even after a near-fatal groin injury. He went on to host Season 9 of Dual Survival and appear in 72 Hours, Mountain Masters, First Man Out, and numerous other scripted and unscripted projects. He’s also been featured on Lost and Patton 360, and was a finalist for Survivor and Big Brother.
Today, EJ is a professional survival instructor, motivational speaker, television personality, writer, and entrepreneur. He runs Skullcrusher Outdoors and co-owns several ventures including Armed Forces Brewing Company, Freedom Pickles, and Hard Working Sauce Co. He’s trekked across the Arctic Circle, explored countless terrains across the globe, and still plans to hike the Appalachian Trail—fulfilling a dream shared with his late brother, Jeff.
Off-screen, EJ is deeply committed to giving back. He actively supports veterans, fights for suicide prevention and homeless outreach, and participates in disaster relief efforts—most recently helping communities recover from Hurricane Helene in Western NC. He regularly lends his time to causes like Operation Homefront, Wounded Warrior Project, and childhood cancer research through events like Hearts of Reality and Reality Rally.
No matter where you see him—on your screen, at an event, or out in the wild—you’ll recognize EJ Snyder by his unbreakable will, unstoppable energy, and loyal sidekick, his service dog Rocko, always by his side.
EJ lives life with intensity, passion, and purpose—ready for whatever challenge comes next.
The Road of a Warrior
From battlefields to backwoods, EJ Snyder’s journey is one of grit, fire, and relentless purpose. Follow the defining moments that shaped a soldier, survivalist, and legend in the wild.
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Forged from the Start
Raised with discipline, heart, and grit, EJ learned early how to face life head-on. His warrior spirit and passion for adventure began long before the battlefield—built on honor, hardship, and hard lessons.
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Battle-Tested and Brotherhood-Born
Over 25 years of elite Army service, EJ rose through the ranks as a decorated combat veteran. From Airborne Ranger missions to leadership roles in the toughest units, he lived by duty, sacrifice, and no-quit resolve.
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Survival Without Boundaries
EJ brought his warrior mindset to the wild—becoming a global survival expert and TV icon. Whether on Naked & Afraid, leading courses, or speaking to crowds, EJ inspires others to conquer fear and embrace the fight.
Survival Without Limits
EJ Snyder lives by the warrior code—“Train as you Fight.” His approach pushes beyond the edge of comfort, the boundaries of terrain, and the limits of self. Dropped into any environment with nothing but grit, EJ doesn’t just survive—he dominates. With raw willpower, battle cries, and unshakable leadership, he turns every trial into a triumph—and takes others with him.
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OFFGRID MAGAZINE
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AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE
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THE BACKWOODSMAN
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PURE SURVIVAL MAGAZINE
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