At just 25 years old, Jed is one of One More Wave’s youngest veterans.He enlisted in the US Army in 2019 and served in both Korea and Iraq as a Bridge Crewmember (12C), where he was responsible for constructing bridges and rafts for soldiers to cross large bodies of water.
After coming out of the military in 2022, Jed found it difficult to find groups to connect with. At 22, he couldn’t relate to peers his age because of his unique experiences in the Army. Searching for connection and belonging, Jed was asked to direct a school play, and was initially hesitant to accept the role, but decided to give it a try. He found dealing with youth to be a breath of fresh air, which helped him connect better with his emotions.
The new mission at the school as well as therapy served as foundations for his growing hope and purpose.
Shortly after, Jed found himself connected to Operation Surf and subsequently One More Wave. A California Native, he was always in the water, but never had any surfing experience. After finishing his surf training with Operation Surf, he received a hardboard from One More Wave and took to the water.
His board was a representation of his transition back into everyday life post army with a green hue transitioning into a blue finish.
“Part of the reason that makes waking up so much easier is having that board and being able to get out on the water and start my day that way,” Jed said, adding that his board gives him a sense of hope.
Jed speaks highly of the growing community he’s now a part of. “One More Wave has propelled the mission forward pretty heavily for vets and surfing,” he said, adding that the relaxed approach has been instrumental in his healing journey through surf therapy.
He is grateful to connect with people who understand his journey through the army while not always needing to talk about it. Being able to go out on the water and clear his mind has been very therapeutic.
Jed plans to continue his time in the water by moving to Hawaii and studying Marine Biology. He also plans to join the Hawaii chapter of One More Wave and continue surfing.
Story by Rachael Ruiz.