How It Started: Joe’s Story
Joe LaBranche, a U.S. Marine and Vietnam veteran, was wounded in combat in 1966 and 1967, earning two Purple Hearts for his service. Upon returning home to Detroit, he faced decades of untreated post-traumatic stress, struggling with emotional challenges, addiction, and isolation for more than 40 years. Through the support of the Atlanta VA Health Care System and dedicated therapy, Joe found healing and purpose, transforming his personal journey into a mission to help others. Alongside his wife, Carol, he founded AboutFace-USA, a nonprofit grounded in the belief that veterans are best able to support one another through understanding, connection, and shared resilience. Today, Joe continues to dedicate his life to empowering veterans and their families, guiding them on their path toward recovery, growth, and hope.
How It’s Going
Today, Joe continues to turn his journey into purpose, leading AboutFace-USA and dedicating his life to supporting veterans and their families.
