The Ultimate Team-Building & Leadership

General Austin “Scott” Miller, assuming the role of Executive Chairman for Prairie Fire Nevada in January 2023, boasts a distinguished career spanning over 38 years in uniform. Graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1983, he retired from active duty in 2021, leaving an indelible mark on some of the world’s most complex geopolitical landscapes.

Throughout his tenure, General Miller, an Airborne-Ranger and Infantry officer, commanded at various levels, from leading a company in Korea to spearheading the TF Ranger assault force in Mogadishu during the infamous “Blackhawk Down” incident. His leadership extended to commanding the Joint Special Operations Command and culminated in serving as the final commander of NATO’s Resolute Support Mission and United States Forces Afghanistan.

A stalwart figure in the Global War on Terror, General Miller distinguished himself as one of the earliest Americans to engage in the pursuit of Usama Bin Laden and other high-value targets. His extensive combat experience includes commanding multiple Special Operation Task Forces across the Middle East and South Asia.

Notably, as commanding general of the United States Army Maneuver Center of Excellence at Fort Benning in 2014, General Miller led efforts to integrate women into the prestigious U.S. Army Ranger School, a pivotal step forward in gender equality within the military.

General Miller’s accolades include two Combat Infantryman Badges, two Purple Hearts, the Silver Star and a remarkable 20 Overseas Service Bars, underscoring his unparalleled dedication with over a decade spent in combat zones.

Major General (Retired) Mark O’Neil dedicated 33 years of service to the U.S. Army, excelling in diverse combat leadership roles. Commencing his journey in the Army Special Operations Command, he ascended to the esteemed position of Commanding General of the United States Army Alaska. Throughout his tenure, O’Neil’s leadership ethos centered on mentorship, strategic planning, and fostering partnerships, principles he refined during his impactful 16-year tenure with the U.S. Army Special Operations Command. ​

In addition to his military contributions, O’Neil extends his expertise to assist organizations in talent assessment and leadership development initiatives. He advocates for simplifying complexity to maintain mission focus, a philosophy he actively applies at PrairieFire, where he contributes to guest program development. ​

O’Neil’s distinguished career is underscored by numerous accolades, including the prestigious Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, and an impressive 12 Overseas Service Bars, testament to his unwavering dedication and exemplary service. O’Neil and his wife Wendy take immense pride in their children, Taylor O’Neil, pursuing a career as a cameraman in LA, and Staff Sergeant Riley O’Neil, currently serving as an Airborne Ranger, reflecting a legacy of commitment to duty and excellence. ​

Lanny Barnes took on the role of Chief Experience Officer in May of 2022. Barnes is a three-time Olympian in Biathlon, boasting world and national championships in diverse shooting disciplines. With over 20 years of instructional experience, she specializes in maximizing the physiological and psychological performance of military, law enforcement and competitive shooters. Barnes’ coaching extends across Nordic skiing, biking, marathons, triathlons and all shooting disciplines, showcasing her versatile training approach.​

In addition to her athletic achievements, Barnes is an accomplished artist, crafting expressive works since 2000, featured at www.theolympianartist.com. Alongside her twin sister, she shares Olympic experiences and dedicates free time to mentorship programs in schools, 4-H clubs, Boys & Girls Clubs and Boys & Girls Scouts. Their advocacy emphasizes the importance of pursuing dreams, setting goals and leading a healthy, active lifestyle. ​

Beyond mentorship, Barnes and her sister channel their compassion by guiding terminally ill children and wounded veterans on unforgettable hunting and outdoor adventures, embodying a spirit of empathy and service.​