OUR HISTORY

The creation of Badj stems from a passion for helping those in need, wanting to help veterans continue serving patriotically after the military and honoring family history of serving in our nation’s military. Jay’s uncle, Alvia Grady Bryant, lost his life in Vietnam January 1, 1968 – Alvia’s 21st birthday. We proudly included in the picture above Alvia's name as found on the Vietnam Memorial Wall, as listed on panel 33e, line 11.

 

Jay’s wife, Holly, also lost her father, Robert C. Blackshear, in 1968 – just prior to her birth. Robert was killed in a helicopter training incident after already serving three tours in Vietnam. Proudly, the family tradition of serving continues to this day.

 

The tradition of service continues with Jay's son, Noah, joining the Navy in December, 2018 and Holly's daughter Brittany prouding serving tours in Iraq and Cuba while in the Army National Guard.