In honor of Veteran’s Day, the Austin Bar wishes to thank all of our veteran members.
Dominic Castillo
U.S. Air Force Veteran
Dominic Castillo served in the U.S. Air Force as an Airman First Class from 2000 to 2002, where he specialized as a munitions systems apprentice focusing on precision guidance munitions. During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, showcasing his commitment to his country. Dominic is not only a veteran himself but also a dependent of a veteran, enriching his understanding of the challenges faced by military families. He is actively involved with the Austin Bar Foundation’s Veterans’ Legal Assistance Program (VLAP) and serves as co-chair of the Husch Blackwell Veterans Employee Resource Group. Dominic is dedicated to providing pro bono legal services through initiatives like Free Legal Advice Clinics and guided pro se assistance. His multifaceted perspective as both a veteran and a family member enhances his ability to support fellow veterans in navigating legal challenges.
Wayne Cavalier
U.S. Army Veteran,
Chief Warrant Officer 4
(1964 to 1994)
Wayne Cavalier is a retired chief warrant officer 4 (CW4) with a distinguished military career in the U.S. Army, serving from 1964 to 1994. His dedication to service is matched by his commitment to his legal practice, where he focuses on providing valuable support to fellow veterans. Wayne actively participates in VLAP, offering pro bono legal services and guidance to veterans facing various legal challenges. His extensive military experience, including honors such as the Legion of Merit and the Meritorious Service Medal, allows him to approach each case with a profound understanding of the unique issues veterans encounter. Wayne is also involved with organizations like the U.S. Army Warrant Officers Association and the Military Officers Association of America, further exemplifying his dedication to supporting the military community.
Kyle Ryman
U.S. Army Veteran
Kyle Ryman served as a captain in the U.S. Army from 2009 to 2017, during which he earned numerous accolades, including the Bronze Star Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster and the Meritorious Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster. His military career included significant deployments to Afghanistan, where he served with the 159th Combat Aviation Brigade’s Pathfinder Company and later as aide-de-camp to the Deputy Commanding General for Operations. Kyle’s experience as an infantry officer has greatly informed his legal practice, where he focuses on supporting veterans through VLAP. He is an associate at McKool Smith, and he is passionate about providing pro bono legal services and is actively involved in initiatives like the Free Legal Advice Clinics and guided pro se assistance. Additionally, Kyle is a member of the Texas Law Veterans Alumni Association, further demonstrating his commitment to the military community.
Alessandro “Sandro” Serra
U.S. Air Force Veteran
Sandro Serra served as a senior airman in the U.S. Air Force from 2005 to 2009, where he worked as a linguist. Though he did not serve in any combat zones or special assignments, Sandro’s military experience instilled in him a strong commitment to public service. He actively participates in UT Law’s Veterans organizations, speaking regularly to students and recruiting veterans to join his firm, Pillsbury. Sandro is also a volunteer with VLAP, offering pro bono legal services in various capacities. He contributes his expertise to Free Legal Advice Clinics, assists in preparing content for legal webinars, and offers guided pro se assistance. His passion for helping veterans extends beyond his professional work, making him an integral part of the veteran legal community.
Editor’s note: Dominic Castillo, Wayne Cavalier (not pictured), Kyle Ryman, and Sandro Serra are just a few of the veterans the Austin Bar is proud to call members. These individuals are featured because they filled out the Austin Bar Military Service Survey sent out by the Austin Bar Foundation’s Veterans’ Legal Assistance Program in honor of Veterans Day celebrated every year in November.