Every Memorial Day, we remember those who gave their lives for this country. At Shields & Stripes, we honor them through action — by restoring the lives of the military members and first responders still with us.
A Shields & Stripes program alum and veteran, who once battled with depression and found hope and healing through our program, made an anonymous $15,000 donation. He gave in honor of his friend and fellow soldier, 1LT Forrest P. Ewens. Forrest was a man whose life and leadership left a lasting mark on all who knew him. This generous gift will fully fund life changing care for a fellow military member or first responder in need.
Forrest was the kind of leader who made you want to be better. He was a Ranger-qualified Infantry Officer in the 10th Mountain Division, serving as a Light Infantry Platoon Leader in 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment. On June 16, 2006, at just 25 years old, Forrest was killed in action when an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle during combat operations in Afghanistan’s Pesh River Valley.
He gave his life for his country. He lead from the front, protecting his men.
But Forrest’s legacy didn’t end that day.
Those who served with him remember his magnetism, optimism, calm under pressure, and his fierce loyalty to his soldiers and friends. As one tribute reads:
“Your optimistic outlook, incredible magnetism, positive attitude and undeniable natural leadership abilities still draw us into your legacy of how you lived your life to this day.”
This Memorial Day, we share Forrest’s story because his impact continues.
That is the mission of Shields & Stripes. We help military members and first responders reclaim their lives. Not just survive, but thrive. Because behind every loss like Forrest’s, there are countless others struggling in silence. And it is our mission to reach them before it’s too late.
Forrest lived a life of courage and purpose. This Memorial Day, we don’t just honor his sacrifice, we carry his legacy forward.
Let it remind us all: service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off and neither should our support.
"When we first arrived, we knew the road ahead would require dedication, hard work, and perseverance to return to the level of performance our duties demand. What we did not expect was just how much you would help us grow, not only in our physical strength and recovery, but in our confidence, focus, and readiness for whatever challenges lie ahead."
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. You are not alone.
Consider the Shields & Stripes program.
And if you’d like to make a gift in honor of a loved one this Memorial Day, please consider donating to Shields & Stripes. Your support helps military members and first responders heal and reclaim their lives.
