Not Leaving…

Transitioning from most jobs or seasons in life usually comes with a clear ending—you can leave and start something new. This was different. It affected every day, living constantly in the mind and soul, touching every aspect of life. Imagine not leaving your house for months on end, not even to go to Walmart…

Unprocessed

This was Landon’s reality. In 2015, he left the military and his team. But instead of finding closure, it felt like the beginning of a new battle. He struggled with nightmares, sleepless nights, panic attacks, depression, and a loss of desire to live. He wrestled with sadness, frustration, and a temper fueled by unprocessed pain, reaching a point where he didn’t want to fight the mental battle anymore.

Lost

He lost everything: a good paying job, drank a lot and isolated. In fact, looking at the life of the guys he grew up around and how normal their lives were he actually began to wish he had never joined the military.

Rock Bottom

At rock bottom, a few of his military teammates stepped in, saying, “We got you.” Through their support and therapy at the VA, Landon began to heal. Today, he credits those conversations and interventions with saving his life.

Paying It Forward

Years later, he’s paying it forward for other veterans, especially those who have faced combat and the struggles that can follow. Understanding the pain firsthand and having lost military friends to suicide, Landon wanted to create a safe space to prevent others from suffering alone. His vision became an expense-paid weekend retreat for teams who served together—a chance to reunite, support each other, and process their shared experiences.

Retreat Activities

The retreats take place in the middle of nowhere in Lewis County, Kentucky. Activities include kayaking, fishing, cornhole, horses, and axe throwing. But for many veterans, the real highlight is simply sitting around the firepit, talking, and reconnecting.

Highlight for Many

For participants, the emotional reunions with their team—sometimes years later—are the most meaningful part. They also have opportunities to network, find jobs, and gain a reliable support system. These retreats (in the middle of nowhere) give veterans something to look forward to each year and remind them they are never truly alone – the same way that Landon was once reminded.

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Warrior Ridge Important Information
Ways you can help veterans feel supported in their darkest hours:

• Sponsor a Team: 
• https://warriorridge.org/support-warrior-ridge/
• Nominate a Veteran/Team: 
• https://warriorridge.org/nominate-a-veteran/
• Donate: 
• https://warriorridge.org/support-warrior-ridge/
• Store: 
• https://warriorridge.org/shop/
• Volunteer: 
• volunteer@warriorridge.org