Garand Thumb, whose real name is Mike Jones, is widely known in the firearms and military communities, and his recent announcement of a divorce from Ashley Jones has caused a wave of speculation. Social media has been abuzz with rumors, with many falsely suggesting infidelity as the cause. However, Garand Thumb himself has come forward to address the truth behind the split, providing clarity on the situation to his fans and followers.
The Story Behind the Divorce: No Cheating Involved
The rumor mill began churning shortly after Garand Thumb, a retired American military veteran and popular YouTuber, announced his separation from Ashley Jones. On October 23, 2024, Garand Thumb shared a candid Instagram reel in which he confirmed the split but firmly denied any claims of cheating.
“Yes, me and my wife are divorcing,” he stated, “but it’s not due to cheating or any of the other things people have been saying online.” The response came as a way to shut down the gossip that had emerged after Ashley’s Facebook post became a viral topic of discussion.
Ashley Jones Speaks Out: A Joint Statement
In a coordinated effort, Ashley Jones also addressed their separation in an Instagram post, tagging Garand Thumb and sharing her perspective on the challenging situation. She wrote, “Mike and I are splitting up. This is a really difficult and sad time, for obvious reasons.” Ashley’s words reflected the solemnity of the decision, and her transparency was a response to the intense public scrutiny they were facing.
Some of the rumors began when Ashley, who had grown up in a single-parent household, shared a heartfelt Facebook post expressing the emotional impact of her new reality as a single mom. She wrote, “Growing up with a single dad, I never thought I’d be a single mom.
It’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel.” Ashley later clarified that she had not intended for the post to be public, inadvertently sparking gossip and speculation about their relationship.
A Look at Garand Thumb’s Background and Rise to Fame
Before becoming a well-known figure in the online firearms and military community, Mike Jones served as a Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) specialist in the United States Air Force. His work placed him alongside
Special Operations Forces and Tier 1 combat maneuver units, giving him the extensive knowledge and tactical expertise he would later share through his social media platforms. After retiring from active duty, he pursued a new path, launching a YouTube channel in 2011 focused on military education, firearms training, and tactical gear reviews.
Under the pseudonym “Garand Thumb,” Mike’s YouTube channel gained traction rapidly, resonating with fans who admired his depth of knowledge, authentic commentary, and straightforward reviews. His audience expanded over the years, with millions of subscribers tuning in to gain insight from his experience.
Alongside his content creation, Garand Thumb also founded Onward Research, a company dedicated to producing custom-made tactical gear and shooting accessories. This business venture further solidified his status as a prominent figure in the firearms and tactical communities.
The Jones Family: Love, Marriage, and Children
Garand Thumb and Ashley had been together for several years before they decided to marry. Their journey as a couple was filled with love and shared interests, with Ashley actively supporting her husband’s endeavors in the tactical gear business. She even took on a significant role at Onward Research, contributing to the company’s growth and success as its Vice President.
The couple has two young children together, Sunny Ryon Jones and Beck Robert Jones, who have been the center of their lives. Fans were disheartened to hear about the couple’s separation, given the family’s image as a traditional, tight-knit unit.
Rumors of Cheating and Public Reactions
Despite the joint statements made by both Mike and Ashley, some fans and followers reacted with criticism, urging the couple to work through their issues for the sake of their children. Many held the Joneses to a high standard due to their Christian values and strong family image, while others were more understanding of their decision to separate. The public response has varied widely, with some comments reflecting disappointment and others expressing support.
One fan even commented, “Your kids are more important than whatever selfish reasons you have for splitting up. Be adults and protect your children.” Such reactions reveal the level of investment fans have in Garand Thumb’s personal life, especially given his open and honest approach to sharing aspects of his life online.
Mike Jones: The Man Behind Garand Thumb
Mike Jones was born on April 6, 1986, in Tacoma, Washington, making him 38 years old as of 2024. His background includes years of rigorous military training, numerous combat deployments, and an impressive service record. Today, he is celebrated not only for his service but for his contributions to military education through his content.
Aside from his career as Garand Thumb, he is a private individual, choosing to keep specific family details out of the public eye. He credits much of his success to his military discipline, which has enabled him to establish a highly regarded reputation in his field.
The Success of Onward Research
One of Garand Thumb’s major accomplishments outside of content creation is the success of Onward Research. The company produces a range of custom-made tactical apparel, shooting accessories, and specialized gear that reflects Garand Thumb’s extensive military experience. His brand’s mission to support military,
law enforcement, and veterans’ communities resonates with a loyal customer base. The company also supports charitable causes dedicated to helping military families and law enforcement officers.
With nearly three million subscribers on YouTube and an estimated net worth of $3.56 million, Mike Jones’ professional and personal success has allowed him to make a meaningful impact within his community.
Conclusion
The recent news of Garand Thumb’s divorce from Ashley Jones has undoubtedly shaken his fanbase. However, both Mike and Ashley have addressed the situation with honesty and respect for each other, putting rumors to rest and prioritizing the well-being of their children.
Their journey together, from marriage to business collaboration, reflects a significant chapter in their lives, which they’ve chosen to conclude on their own terms. Garand Thumb’s continued commitment to the firearms community, coupled with Ashley’s resilience, illustrates their mutual respect despite the challenges they face.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Garand Thumb and Ashley Jones get divorced?
Garand Thumb and Ashley Jones announced their separation due to personal reasons. Both have confirmed that infidelity was not the cause of their split, despite rumors circulating online.
2. Who is Garand Thumb’s real name, and what is his background?
Garand Thumb’s real name is Mike Jones. He is a retired TACP specialist who served with the United States Air Force, later establishing himself as a YouTube personality and founder of Onward Research.
3. How many children do Garand Thumb and Ashley have?
The couple has two children, Sunny Ryon Jones and Beck Robert Jones, who remain their primary focus during this challenging time.
4. What kind of content does Garand Thumb produce on YouTube?
Garand Thumb’s YouTube channel offers educational videos on firearms, military tactics, and reviews of tactical gear. His expertise and engaging style have garnered him a large fan base.
5. What is the net worth of Garand Thumb?
As of 2024, Garand Thumb’s estimated net worth is approximately $3.56 million, stemming from his YouTube channel and his tactical gear company, Onward Research.