Patrick Shining Elk, a multifaceted individual with a remarkable aptitude for horse riding, acting, stunt performance, and battle-hardened experience in foreign conflicts, is a proud and esteemed member of the Eastern Shoshone Indian Tribe, hailing from the culturally rich Wind River Reservation in the picturesque state of Wyoming.
As a direct descendant of his adopted father, who played a significant role in shaping his life's trajectory, Patrick Shining Elk has been inspired by the wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support of his patriarch, ultimately leading him to follow in his footsteps and forge his own path in life.
Patrick's illustrious military career commenced with his enlistment in the prestigious United States Navy, where he embarked on a distinguished flying career, serving as an air crew member for a substantial period of time. During his tenure, he was actively involved in conducting crucial search and rescue missions, demonstrating his exceptional skills and dedication to duty.
In addition to his search and rescue endeavors, Patrick's military exploits also took him to the forefront of combat, where he valiantly fought in three separate foreign wars. The first of these conflicts was the Lebanon War, a tumultuous and trying period that tested his mettle and resolve. The second was the Panama War, a grueling and intense campaign that pushed him to his limits. Finally, he played a pivotal role in the Desert Storm, a groundbreaking and pivotal conflict that showcased his bravery and strategic prowess.
After completing his military service, Patrick's innate affinity for adrenaline-fueled activities led him to embark on a four-year career as a professional motor cross racer, a venture that not only showcased his exceptional driving skills but also further fueled his passion for extreme sports.
As his motor cross racing days drew to a close, Patrick's insatiable thirst for thrill-seeking led him to explore other high-octane pursuits, ultimately paving the way for a successful transition into the world of stunt work for television and film productions.
Fast forward to the present, Patrick's remarkable journey has yielded a multifaceted career as an Indian Cowboy, an all-encompassing title that encompasses his expertise as a skilled horseman, livestock wrangler, and award-winning bull rider and steer wrestler.
During the 1990s, Patrick's exceptional talents as a steer wrestler took him on a three-year tour, competing at the highest level with the IPRA/CPRA, a prestigious organization that has long been synonymous with the world of professional rodeo.
Patrick's multifaceted career as an actor and stuntman has afforded him the privilege of collaborating with a diverse array of notable actors, including the likes of Tom Cruise, Viggo Mortensen, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Gary Oldman, and Skeet Ulrich, among others.
In addition to his work in film and television, Patrick has also had the opportunity to hone his craft on stage, performing in various theatre productions with the esteemed Native Voices Program at the Autry National Museum in Los Angeles, as well as with other prominent theatre companies throughout the nation.
Furthermore, his extensive experience extends beyond the realm of acting, as he has also had the opportunity to work in various other fields, including television commercials, corporate videos, and print ad modeling, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability as a performer.
Patrick is an individual who has dedicated a significant portion of his life to making a positive impact on the lives of young people across the United States. His commitment to giving back to the youth of his nation is unwavering, and he has demonstrated this through a wide range of philanthropic endeavors.
One of the ways in which Patrick has chosen to give back is by working with numerous children's hospitals throughout the country. These hospitals provide vital medical care to young patients who are facing serious health challenges, and Patrick's involvement has undoubtedly brought joy and comfort to countless children and their families.
In addition to his work with children's hospitals, Patrick has also made personal appearances to meet and talk with troubled youngsters. These individuals are often facing significant challenges in their lives, and Patrick's willingness to listen to their stories and offer words of encouragement has likely had a profound impact on their well-being.
Furthermore, Patrick has collaborated with Michael McMeel's foundation, "Inner City Slickers," which is a unique organization that brings together cowboys and street kids. This innovative program aims to provide a sense of community and belonging to young people who may be struggling to find their place in the world, and Patrick's involvement has undoubtedly helped to make a positive difference in the lives of those who have participated.
Overall, Patrick's dedication to giving back to the youth of his nation is truly admirable, and his efforts have likely had a lasting impact on the lives of countless young people across the United States.
Patrick's illustrious career has not been without its challenges, as he was forced to take a temporary hiatus from the spotlight following a harrowing steer wrestling accident in the year 2002.
Patrick's impressive repertoire of achievements is further augmented by his affiliation with the esteemed American Pool Players Association (APPA),a prestigious organization that has garnered his dedication and commitment over the years. Notably, he has participated in professional competitions for a duration of three consecutive years, a testament to his exceptional skill and aptitude in the realm of pool playing. Despite the passage of time, Patrick's connection with the APPA remains unwavering, as he continues to maintain his membership to this day, a badge of honor that underscores his enduring passion for the sport.
