The Story Behind JLBC Cadet Corps and Covenant of Courage
Transforming Lives, One Person at a Time
The JLBC Cadet Corps Documentary isn’t just a film project—it’s the culmination of a journey defined by resilience, courage, and the drive to create meaningful change. My story as a United States Marine laid the foundation for the JLBC Cadet Corps and Covenant of Courage, two organizations born from pain and purpose. This is the story that fuels our mission—and the reason your support can help us transform lives.
The Journey Begins: Becoming a United States Marine
I’ll never forget the day I walked into a Marine Corps recruiting office. The recruiter stood up and said, “How can I help you?” With unwavering determination, I replied, “I want to be a United States Marine.”
From that moment, my life changed forever. The path to earning the title “Marine” was grueling. I remember the yellow footprints, the endless yelling of the drill instructors, and the sleepless nights. Adjusting to Marine Corps life wasn’t easy, but I never gave up. The day I graduated and became a United States Marine was one of the proudest moments of my life.
My Career in Service
After graduating from the Fire Academy at Goodfellow Air Force Base, I reported to MCAS New River. There, my fire department experience expanded to include working with the provost marshal’s office, where I trained as a law enforcement officer. I learned to overcome obstacles, whether it was enduring pepper spray or completing grueling physical tests.
Later, I returned to Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF), where I trained with elite units like the Chemical Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF) and the United States Air Force Pararescue. I became a Hazmat Technician, a Rescue Technician, and a member of a Rapid Response Team. Each step demanded relentless effort, but I thrived because I believed in the mission and my team.
A Setback That Changed Everything
As I progressed in my career, I set my sights on a long-term commitment to the Marine Corps. I reenlisted and dreamed of serving for 20 years. But just before my promotion to Staff Sergeant, everything changed.
I was injured. My career—the one I had worked so hard to build—came to an abrupt end. I received an honorable medical discharge, but I was lost. I found myself in a downward spiral that led to homelessness. At my lowest point, I reminded myself: “I am a United States Marine.”
That moment of realization was the turning point. I began to adapt and overcome, fighting my way back to stability and purpose.
Turning Pain into Purpose
As I rebuilt my life, I felt a deep desire to ensure no one—veteran or civilian—would experience the struggles I faced. A seed was planted, one that would grow into a mission to provide the helping hand I needed during my darkest times.
I began teaching an ROTC class at a homeschool co-op, and that experience reignited my sense of purpose. I saw the impact I could make on youth, and from there, the JLBC Cadet Corps was born. Through this program, I recreated the elements I loved most about my military career—leadership, discipline, and service—and brought them to the next generation.
The Birth of Covenant of Courage
As I worked with youth, I realized the same principles could also transform the lives of veterans. I reflected on the oath I took when I enlisted. That oath was more than a commitment—it was a covenant, one that required courage to make and courage to uphold.
With that realization, I founded Covenant of Courage, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering veterans to regain their sense of purpose and thrive in civilian life.
Our Mission Today
Through the JLBC Cadet Corps and Covenant of Courage, we are transforming lives:
• Youth Leadership: Teaching discipline, teamwork, and responsibility to the next generation.
• Veteran Support: Providing resources, mentorship, and community to those transitioning from military to civilian life.
• A Legacy of Service: Inspiring individuals to embrace leadership and service as a way of life.
These organizations are not just programs—they are the embodiment of resilience, commitment, and the belief that no one should ever feel alone in their struggles.
Why This Documentary Matters
The JLBC Cadet Corps Documentary will bring this story to life, capturing the journey of cadets and veterans who have found hope, purpose, and success through these programs. This film is not just about my story—it’s about the countless lives that can be transformed when we invest in leadership, discipline, and service.
Your Role in the Mission
By supporting this documentary, you’re not just funding a film—you’re helping us:
• Inspire the next generation: Share the values of leadership and service with youth across the nation.
• Empower veterans: Highlight the importance of giving veterans the tools and support they need to thrive.
• Build a legacy: Ensure the stories of courage and resilience continue to impact communities for years to come.
Join Us
This is more than a documentary—it’s a call to action. Together, we can create a legacy that honors the sacrifices of veterans, uplifts the next generation, and transforms lives one person at a time.
Let’s share this story with the world. Support the JLBC Cadet Corps Documentary today.
Comments