Army Specialist Jeremy Visbal joined the military because he said he experienced a rough childhood, and he wanted to make sure to provide for his family so that his kids have the positive childhood that he did not. He also believed in fighting for his country and everything he believed in. He joined out of Cincinnati, Ohio in 1997 and served for 10 years.

Specialist Visbal explained that there were several incidents throughout his years of service that led to him developing PTSD, including when he had to tend to a friend who was mortally injured on the battlefield, and who later died that day. It was one of the many horrors he witnessed that has long stuck with him. In his time in combat, Specialist Visbal was involved in multiple Humvee collisions and was exposed to IED blasts an numerous occasions, which have caused a traumatic brain injury.

Jeremy and his wife Robin have four children, three of them with major health issues. One of their children suffers from two forms of epileptic sei-zures and has severe digestive issues. Another of their children spent 10 weeks in a hospital requiring IV nutrition, and a third child had major cranial reconstructive surgery as a 1-year-old and will require at least one more surgery as she grows. Receiving a mortgage-free home, Jeremy said, would provide peace and stability for his family, while allowing him and his wife to focus on their mental health and tending to their children’s healthcare and well-being.

For his service to our country, Specialist Visbal has been awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terror-ism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (2x) and the Combat Action Badge.