War Veteran Finds Peace In Agriculture

As any seasoned grower knows, tending a crop is no walk in the park, especially under the unrelenting heat of the Jacksonville, FL sun. One man, however, has found peace from the agriculture industry, and is spreading it to others seeking solstice from haunting memories and heavy guilt.

A former infantry man in the Middle East, U.S. Army Sgt. Adam Burke, 34, has a lot to be proud of. Returning from a hellish 16 month deployment,Burke was awarded the Purple Heart for his acts of bravery in the face of danger, but, ironically, it’s not his wartime heroics that bring Burke the most pride, it’s his efforts upon returning that have brought him, and countless others, to the path leading to peace of mind.

Although Burke, upon his return from Iraq, was diagnosed with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), he took what little he had and made something beautiful. Burke first found individual healing in the form of a small blueberry farm he cultivated on a two-and-a-half-acre plot given to him by his parents and initially funded by his disability benefits. Once the realization of the therapeutic nature of his endeavor set in, Burke sought to help other returning soldiers by offering them the opportunity to join him in his berry therapy. The farm, which was later expanded to 8 acres complete with raised potted berry bushes for handicap access, thanks to the Work Vessels for Veterans, now hosts former soldiers from all walks of war. The discipline and work ethic it takes to cultivate crops has proven to be a perfect fit for the returnees and Burke’s efforts are sure appreciated for years to come.

To read Burke’s full story, go to http://www.parade.com/news/2011/10/hope-grows-here.html

For more information regarding the Farmer-Veteran Coalition, visit www.farmvetco.org.