Golf Clubs and Lessons for Caleb Strassner, U.S. Navy Veteran, and His Wife Marissa.
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October 2, 2024
Golf Clubs and Lessons for Vanessa Guzman, U.S. Army Veteran.
October 14, 2024We were honored to play a small part in these lovebirds' nineteenth anniversary celebration. Caleb Strassner, U.S. Navy Veteran, and his lovely wife Marissa, received their golf clubs and first lesson from Rhonda Ferguson, Senior Certified Instructor, PGA TOUR at PGA Academy World Golf Village.
"You've given more than just clubs and a lesson; you've given hope"
We asked Caleb to share a brief bio, and he sent us this beautiful note:
"John "Caleb" Strassner A Fernandina Beach, Florida native, Caleb Served in the United States Navy Submarine Force from 2004 to 2022. I joined the Military in 2004 as most of us did that were itching to do our part in the war on terror. Little did I know what awaited me in the world of the "Silent Service." Our missions are classified, and our accolades never make it to the news or on paper for the world to read about. Yet, our stories and accomplishments are at the heart of National Security. Years of serving on Submarines with no fresh air or sunlight for months at a time, in places where we couldn't communicate with home but had to stay hidden.
Living a life of service came with a high price of missing not only the little things in life, like holidays and birthdays, but also a lot of the firsts in my family's life. First words, first steps, first house, and several others. I found myself in a dark place where it seemed easier to continue to pull away rather than ask for help. After being diagnosed with major depressive disorder in 2019 my life continued to be shaped by this disease that claims so many lives in our community. Transitioning back into civilian life these last two years has been a challenge, I remember leaving Belk with my wife after picking out new clothes for my civilian job and the weight of all of it crashing down on top of me, my wife came around the car and found me folded over in the parking lot in tears.
During these last few years, I've found my worth again in service to fellow veterans who are transitioning to civilian life. The challenges we face are not often spoken about, and I'm extremely grateful for people like "Will Of Iron" who not only see a need but decided to do something about it. Today, my wife and I happily celebrated 19 years of marriage. What a blessing it was to both of us. You've given more than just clubs and a lesson; you've given hope.
Sincerely, Caleb & Marissa Strassner.
Saluting Caleb Strassner
We salute Caleb for his service to our nation. Even though it was "silent," the Grateful Americans celebrate it loudly. We are proud of him and Marissa for giving golf a chance to improve their mental health and marriage. Happy Anniversary. We wish you many more. God bless you.