On August 13th, 2010, Army Corporal Justin Mouser, of Bravo Company, 1-66 Brigade, 4th Infantry Division was serving his country
half a world away. Corporal Mouser stepped on a landmine while on patrol in Afghanistan and the resultant explosion cost the young soldier his left leg.
Rather than dwell on his personal loss, Justin is ever mindful of those who served and paid the ultimate price for their patriotism. “”When people want to thank someone, that’s fine, but you really need to remember the people that didn’t make it back. The ones who sacrificed everything. Ultimately, it’s their cost and why I’m still sitting here and that’s why you’re here.”
Donna Lovejoy Lundy, Justin’s Mother added, “I am thankful that my son made it home alive. We need to really remember the loved ones that have been lost for our freedom. Every Challenge is a blessing and reminds me that I have my child safely home. People often ask how we made it through this. One second, one minute and one day at time…my son is a survivor and I am proud of him and everything that he has accomplished!”
Cpl. Mouser’s recovery was aided by the support of family, friends and the medical professionals who were determined to see the young soldier recover as fully as possible. His efforts were aided by his wife, Marsh Williams Mouser, sisters Heather and Michelle Mouser, his mother and his stepfather-to-be Travis Norwood. That family effort will be readily visible this Saturday at the Big Trout Bonanza Tournament, which will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. Travis has been an excellent role model for Justin, finding ways to allow the young man to experience more of the outdoors. He will serve as Justin’s guide during the tournament. With the additional challenge caused by his injury, Mouser has needed help in adapting methods of hunting and fishing to allow his full participation. Travis has stepped forward to teach him what he needs to know in order to succeed and enjoy their ventures into the outdoors!
Justin’s participation is being sponsored by Flexicrew, a local staffing agency whose members live, work and volunteer in the communities they serve. According to Flexicrew Management: “Our employees generously volunteer their time to non-profit organizations. Flexicrew dedicates a percentage of our annual revenue to non-profit organizations which serve to improve our society. We also believe strongly in supporting our military personnel. We recruit and place veterans daily and have committed to Hire Our Heroes at every opportunity. We are thrilled to be able to support any Veteran of the US Armed Forces.”
This is just one of the inspiring stories associated with the upcoming event. For our local Wounded Warriors to enjoy a day on the water and competitively vie for prize money and bragging rights is something special. For those who support these American Heroes, the chance to raise funds for use in preparing these young Warriors for a life changed by injuries sustained while supporting our nation’s ideals is invaluable. We invite everyone to join us at Calcasieu Point Landing this Saturday, June 21, from 6:00 am until 3:00 pm. See the winning trout weighed in, the prizes awarded and enjoy the spirit of the day! We will have Coca Cola products available, as well as Snow Flurries Snow Cones and food items.
For more information, contact BigTroutBonanza@gmail.com or call 337-244-0637.