J.R. Barrett

Brett J. Morris was my brother not by blood or brothers in arms, but we were certainly brothers bonded by love and friendship over the last 25 years. I met Brett when I was 14yo when we attended the same school. Brett and I connected in many ways from the start but in particular on the fronts of our faith, movies, pop culture, games and adventure. For me, Brett defined words like loyalty, selflessness and honor not only in the way he served this country, but also in how he served those around him in his family and friends. Brett embodied these ideals while maintaining an uncanny sense of humor and zeal for living. He was the funniest man in any room he was ever in as far as I’m concerned. I am a better man because of Brett and I consider myself privileged and blessed to have known him for as long as I did. 


When Mary asked me to serve as a board member, I was humbled and filled with gratitude. The work that Mary has begun with this foundation is desperately important and a mission that will forever be a part of who I am. My brother Brett, who was full of life, laughter and love, also suffered from unseen battles of the mind and heart in ways I can’t even begin to imagine. PTSD, chronic pain as a result of time served as a Night Stalker in the US ARMY and depression, were the 3 major battles Brett needlessly suffered internally with for years. One of the major goals of this foundation is to lift the stigma that’s attached to mental health illness in hopes of saving the lives of as many suffering soldiers as possible; to Avenge the wounds from a battle that is unseen but greatly felt. Awareness is the first step. Awareness starts the process of removing stereotype’s and opening the door for honest conversation around the subjects of depression and suicide. Many live in silence with these battles because of the harsh truth of rejection and judgement from others. I want to not only honor my brother and make his struggle known, but also assist his foundation which aims to help countless others who struggle with the same battles as Brett’s in hopes of getting them the help they deserve.