After Army Specialist Derrick returned from Iraq in 2005 with a Purple Heart and Bronze Star, he faced difficulty transitioning back to civilian life. He pursued a career in law enforcement and was able to continue his passion of service with several municipalities, later finishing college as well. Despite all of his successes, Derrick continued to battle with his invisible wounds from combat. His mental health kept him from living a fulfilling life. After struggling with mental health issues for fifteen years, Derrick was accepted into a veteran program that allowed him to finally start healing. Now, Derrick is embarking on a graduate school program to become a professional counselor. His goal is to help other veterans that are struggling with similar invisible wounds, so they too can go on to live the life they deserve.
“Salute was there to help when my family needed it the most. I was able to focus on my recovery and they alleviated a lot of stress and anxiety by paying our mortgage for two months so I could continue treatment and focus on getting back to school so I can some day help other veterans with their mental health!” SPC Derrick