Justin's back story - Post #1

Still reeling from the pain, Justin called to tell me he was being deployed to Iraq. He left one year to the day of his sister's funeral. As terrified as I was I felt secure knowing lightning doesn't strike twice. At least not yet.

Justin was an excellent soldier, committed to his country and his purpose. He got a tattoo on his upper arm before he left. It was of the American Flag with the words "Never Quit" underneath. He lived by that. Several months after arriving in Iraq he applied for the special forces program. He wanted to be a Green Beret. Just before his year was up he was on his way back to the States to Fort Bragg to go through the Qualification Course. It was extremely demanding both mentally and physically. He had to be at the top of his game at all times. He didn't quit. At the end of the Q Course the candidates were instructed to go through one door if their name was called and another if it wasn't. His name was called. He walked through the door not knowing what to expect. He said on the other side of that ominous door was a recording of S. SGT. Barry Sadler's "Ballad of the Green Beret." He knew he'd made it. He never quit.

He continued in the Army for a few more years but wanted a new direction. He didn't think he could give both the Army and hopefully a family his undivided attention. He was a perfectionist. Whatever he did, he gave it his all. He was honorably discharged ready to move on to the next chapter of his life.