🇺🇸 In Memoriam — Charlie Kirk

Today, we remember Charlie Kirk, who was tragically shot and killed on September 10, 2025, during his “American Comeback Tour” event at Utah Valley University. He was a passionate youth leader, outspoken conservative activist, and co-founder of Turning Point USA.

Charlie believed strongly in free speech, in the energy of young people, and in the power of making a difference. Though he walked a path filled with controversy, he inspired many through debates, his radio show, and events urging students to think, question, and stand up for what they believed in.

His death is a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of protecting voices in our public discourse. Let us honor him by rejecting violence, standing up for civility, and lifting each other up—even when we disagree.

🕯️ In memory of the fallen. In honor of the voice that echoed.

🎙️ “They tried to break us. We still stand.”

How Covenant of Courage Gives Veterans a Second Mission

For many service members, the end of military duty comes with mixed emotions. While some transition smoothly into civilian life, others find themselves struggling with the abrupt loss of identity, purpose, and mission. Too often, injured or non-deployable veterans are discharged prematurely, left with the heavy burden of feeling discarded despite their years of sacrifice.

This is where Covenant of Courage steps in.

⸻

From Discharge to Purpose

At Covenant of Courage, we believe that a uniform is not the only way to serve. Veterans carry unique leadership skills, discipline, and resilience—qualities our communities desperately need. When the military tells a service member “your mission is over,” we tell them: “your second mission is just beginning.”

Through leadership workshops, cadet mentorship, veteran empowerment programs, and mental health initiatives, Covenant of Courage provides meaningful ways for veterans to continue contributing. Instead of focusing on what they’ve lost, we help them discover what they can still give.

⸻

A Living Model of Accommodation

One of the greatest strengths of Covenant of Courage is how it demonstrates what reasonable accommodation in the military could look like. In civilian workplaces, employees with injuries or disabilities are often reassigned or supported with modified roles. The military, by contrast, frequently relies on discharge.

Our programs prove there is a better way. Veterans who can no longer deploy still thrive as:

• Mentors to youth in JLBC Cadet Corps

• Instructors teaching leadership, discipline, and tactical skills

• Community leaders driving mental health workshops and resilience training

• Advocates fighting for policy reform to protect future generations of service members

By creating these opportunities, Covenant of Courage showcases a model where no veteran is left behind simply because they cannot serve in a combat role.

⸻

Building Leaders Beyond the Uniform

Through initiatives like JLBC Cadet Corps and Dad’s Supporting Dads, we see daily evidence of how veterans transform challenges into mentorship. A Marine who can no longer run formation miles may instead train cadets in leadership drills. A soldier battling PTSD might lead a workshop on resilience. A veteran adjusting to life after injury may become the voice that helps another find hope.

These are not replacements for service—they are continuations of it.

⸻

Why This Matters

When veterans find a second mission, the ripple effect extends far beyond their own lives. Families grow stronger. Youth gain role models. Communities benefit from seasoned leaders who know sacrifice, discipline, and teamwork.

And at a higher level, Covenant of Courage makes a powerful statement: accommodation works. It restores dignity, reduces suicide risk, saves taxpayer dollars, and strengthens the social fabric of our nation.

⸻

The Call to Action

Covenant of Courage gives veterans more than programs—it gives them back a mission. But we cannot do this work alone. Change requires awareness, advocacy, and action at every level.

📬 support@reasonableranks.org

🖊 Sign the petition: https://chng.it/5yXYvkBtMR

🌐 Learn more: www.covenantofcourage.com

Because service doesn’t end with discharge—it evolves. And with the right support, every veteran can continue to lead.

JLBC Cadet Corps Basketball: Building Leaders On and Off the Court

Basketball is more than a game—it’s a training ground for discipline, teamwork, and leadership. At the JLBC Cadet Corps, the court becomes an extension of our mission to prepare cadets ages 12–18 for the challenges of life, service, and leadership.

Basketball as a Leadership Lab

Every dribble, pass, and shot represents a chance to build confidence and decision-making skills. In fast-paced games, cadets learn to think quickly, communicate effectively, and support one another under pressure—skills that directly translate to emergency response, military preparation, and community leadership.

Just as in close order drill or tactical exercises, cadets learn that leadership isn’t about standing alone—it’s about bringing the team together to achieve success.

Discipline Through Training

Basketball teaches consistency and endurance. Through conditioning, practice, and strategy sessions, cadets develop the mental and physical stamina needed to push through challenges.

• Discipline comes from daily habits—showing up on time, executing drills with precision, and committing to improvement.

• Resilience grows as cadets face defeat and learn to bounce back stronger.

This structure mirrors the JLBC’s larger mission: preparing young people for service with courage and perseverance.

Teamwork That Transcends the Court

Cadets discover that basketball is not about individual glory but about the team. Passing the ball, setting screens, and cheering on teammates build trust and unity. These same values—team before self, service before recognition—are at the heart of JLBC Cadet Corps training.

The bond forged in practices and games reflects the camaraderie found in military and first responder service, teaching cadets that no mission is accomplished alone.

Preparing for the Future

JLBC Cadet Corps basketball is not just physical training—it’s character training. Cadets learn:

• Leadership through captains and peer mentorship.

• Accountability by being responsible to their teammates.

• Community impact by representing the JLBC in local games and service events.

For some, this prepares them for future careers in the military, police, or fire service. For others, it builds the confidence and resilience to succeed in college, business, and life.

Final Thought

At JLBC Cadet Corps, basketball isn’t just a sport—it’s a platform for growth. The lessons cadets learn on the court—discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience—stay with them long after the final buzzer.

Together, we’re not just building athletes. We’re building leaders.

📩 Join Today: join@jlbccadetcorps.com

🌐 Learn More: JLBCcadetcorps.com | CovenantofCourage.com

#JLBC #YouthLeadership #CadetLife #Basketball #Discipline #Teamwork #MilitaryPrep #StayReady