Clayton Kendrick-Holmes didn’t set out to be a hero. He’s turning into one in spite of himself.

The New York Times profiles the Maritime College football coach who will deploy to Afghanistan in November as a member of the Naval Reserves. He might be able to stay at home, spend time with his wife and young kids, and continue coaching his undefeated team, but that’s not his plan.

“I could probably figure out a way to get out of the commitment if I wanted to,” he tells Mark Viera. “I’ve heard people ask if I could do that. But this is a call to serve.”

Kendrick-Holmes attended the Naval Academy and played linebacker before serving ” for three years as a damage-control assistant on the 453-foot frigate Robert G. Bradley.” After returning to the States, he bounced around the coaching circuit, moving from the Citadel to the Naval Academy Preparatory School and then to his current position.

Now, he heads to Afghanistan. Return home safely, sir.