http://thechive.com/2015/07/01/dying-veteran-has-one-final-mission-21-photos/#.xixkev:fpAUJustin heard the words in slow motion, “colon cancer… terminal.” A Major in the US Army, he knew well what would happen next. The protocol – talking about options and time. How much time? Six months, maybe, said the Oncologist. Justin’s thoughts drifted – That wouldn’t be enough time to get it done. This thing which must get done. This thing… it was not for him, it was for the others…
It all began in 2011 when Justin heard about a veteran named Troy Yocum who had walked the length of the United States three times over with a heavy rucksack on his back for a charity called Active Heroes. Troy was on a mission to end veteran suicide amongst soldiers with PTSD. For his efforts, Troy won the prestigious Citizens Honor Medal.
The Rucksack: A component of Active Heroes is called Carry the Fallen. Soldiers and Civilians alike will sign up to carry a 20 lb. rucksack on a march for 3, 6, 12 or 22 hours. Carrying the weight symbolizes the burden that many veterans carry post-war or post-trauma.
Justin Fitch knew about that burden all too well. Justin had suffered in silence from PTSD after returning home from Iraq. One night, he toggled off the safety switch on his firearm as hope grew dim. To the lesser observer, this is the easy way out. To a man pinned beneath PTSD, it feels like the only way out. At that moment Justin heard the voice of his fallen comrade, “Keep going, drive on.” Justin put the gun down and asked for help. It wouldn’t be long until Justin became that person people called to save their lives through his work with Active Heroes…
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http://thechive.com/2015/07/01/dying-veteran-has-one-final-mission-21-photos/#PqE1Xs8oX6Mq24Fk.99Gentlemen. I'd like to invite all of you to raise a glass tonight at 8:30 CST to honor Justin and his courage. <S> Justin. #justinfitch #kcco
