TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – The transition from military service to civilian life is an uphill struggle for many veterans. A nonprofit foundation created in honor of a local Marine aims to raise awareness of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The Justen Caris Memorial Foundation also works to raise money for local PTSD and veterans organizations.
Justen Caris grew up in Pemberville and graduated from Eastwood High School. He joined the United States Marine Corps and struggled with PTSD after his honorable discharge. Justen Caris committed suicide in 2016.
His friends and family use their loss and grief to help others.
Justen Caris joined the United States Marine Corps in 2009.
“He loved the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing and spending time with his friends. He was quite a joker,” said Noah Caris, Justen Caris’ brother.
Noah Caris said he served two tours in Afghanistan.
“During Justen’s first deployment, he was a sapper with an infantry battalion and his primary task was to use a metal detector to search for explosive devices with explosive devices behind him,” said Noah Caris.
After his honorable discharge in 2013, the family noticed subtle changes in Justen Caris.
“The changes are not always easy to see. He has hidden a lot of the changes. Those who have only spent a short time with him may not notice them, but those who have spent a long time with him notice the changes,” said Noah Carris.
Noah Caris said Justen Caris committed suicide in 2016 at the age of 28.
To honor his life and service, a charitable foundation was established to help others through education and support. A poker run raises money for this work.
“The Poker Run was started because his friends wanted to do something meaningful and keep the memory alive,” said Noah Caris.
Among the organizations they have worked with is Little Blessings Veteran and Community Outreach, a program that uses horses to help veterans.
“We try to raise money for organizations like Little Blessings that provide alternative therapies to veterans,” said Noah Caris.
The CEO of Little Blessings is Jamie Paxton, also a veteran.
“We help veterans transition from military service to civilian life. We focus on PTSD and combat trauma and other experiences that people have as they transition from military service to civilian life, and we help the entire family,” Paxton said.
Paxton said that even after his death, Justen Caris continues to serve the country through the foundation that bears his name.
“Last year we received $15,000 from the foundation to help us put four veterans through our program,” Paxton said.
Just one example of the missions carried out in memory of Justen Caris.
“I think if you help just one person, it’s all worth it,” said Noah Caris.
Justen Caris leaves behind family, friends and a six-year-old daughter. The Poker Run in his honor is scheduled for September 7th and will be held at Sycamore Grove in Luckey. For more information, click here.
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