From Our Client in Iraq

Triumph Over Trauma

By the time you read this, Private First Class Joseph Jader will be in Iraq.

Speaking of his six-year commitment to the Marines, he explains, "Giving up my freedom is the greatest community service I can do for my country." He pauses and, ram-rod straight, adds,  "I learned about giving back when I was here."

"Here" is UCAN's Residential Treatment Center, where he lived from 2003-2005. "My life hasn't been easy," he explains.  He recalls a troubled childhood in the care of a grandmother followed by rebellious teen years in a series of foster homes before coming to UCAN. "I had a hard time obeying other people's rules. But people here motivated me and helped me. The staff at UCAN really taught me skills. They laid out the choices I could make with my life. The choices you make tell who you are."

This understanding about life is behind PFC Jader's decision to join the Marines. A member of the Marine Tactical Air Control Unit, he is now at Al Sad overseeing procurement of goods that keep the unit's machinery humming.  It also explains other goals he is pursuing. For example, he wants to learn languages - Somali, Arabic, and Spanish.

And he is looking forward to marriage and children. He met his girlfriend almost nine months ago on a Greyhound bus bound to California from Chicago. They hope to marry when his enlistment ends in six years.

PFC Jader knows there is a long, hard road ahead. But he knows his past serves as an example that challenges can be overcome, and he credits UCAN for believing in him.