Marine Burned 70% of His Body: Faith, Survival & the Battle After War Artwork

Third Man in the Ring

My name is Ray Corona. My friends call me Popeye Ray. I am a professional boxing referee with a few MMA bouts under my belt. Listening to this podcast you will hear from a pro ref's perspective on fighting and life. We will be having professional boxing referees, actors, fighters, and others on as guests. If you have questions for refs on certain fights and certain calls, this is the place to ask. Reach out to us at thirdmanintheringpodcast@gmail.com

All Episodes

Third Man in the Ring

Marine Burned 70% of His Body: Faith, Survival & the Battle After War

November 21, 2025 • Popeye Ray

Marine Staff Sergeant Octavio was leading a convoy in Iraq when a daisy-chain IED of 80mm mortars blew his vehicle apart, killing Captain Maloney and Lance Corporal Help and leaving Octavio with third-degree burns over 70% of his body, a shattered arm, and a long road through ICU, skin grafts, and daily wound care.

Today, Pastor Octavio leads Front Sight Military Outreach in Ontario, CA. A church and ministry for veterans and their families, a “city of refuge” for those still fighting battles in their minds and hearts.

If you’re a veteran, active duty, or a family member who’s struggling, you’re not alone.
Reach out to Front Sight Military Outreach:

Instagram: @FrontSightMilitaryOutreach
Facebook: Front Sight Military Outreach