22, of Lee, Maine; assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas; died June 23, 2007 in Taji, Iraq, of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. Also killed were Army 1st Lt. Daniel P. Riordan, Army Sgt. Jimy M. Malone and Army Spc. Derek A. Calhoun.
To honor SGT Joel A. House, his parents, Mr. Paul House and Mrs. Dee House retrieved this stone from a small swimming hole near their camp in Lee, Maine.
Watch this video to learn why this stone is significant and what it says about SGT Joel A. House.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0DWtwmk7og&feature=youtu.be&rel=0
Sgt Joel A. House
2007/06/23
âThe Birthday Visitorsâ
Written by Deanna House—Gold Star Mother
âHow much longer before youâre ready to go?â Paul walks into the den and looks out at the driveway. âWhereâs the camera?â
âIâve got one more disk to upload, Paul.â Â Iâm almost ready. Canât a person relive her trip to the beach? Itâs my birthday, and I should be able to spend the day like I want, right? Iâve got the camera here. Iâm uploading the pictures with my family now.â
I pull back now when Paul pushes. The days of jumping at the sound of his voice are behind. I didnât know there was no reason to jump. Not purpose. Not habit. A decade of steering a career as a private school teacher has opened the door to teach at the American School of Monterey. I wanted to be a writer, but life just happened with all the jumping around. When I landed, I was a high school teacher who could never quite understand the politics of the schoolhouse. Budget cuts in rural Maine pushed me again, but this time I was different. Â Â I was stampeding towards a new dream. But right now, twenty-nine years of marriage, living in this town, and raising three children was pulling me back in a re-memory of my life.
âI thought sitting on the porch at camp on the longest day of the year, watching the loons and the sunset, was how you wanted to spend your birthday?â Paul says. I tune him out until I hear, âWhoâs here now?â Â A blue van with military plates has pulled into the driveway.
âWeâve lost Joel,â he walks back into the kitchen.
âWhat?â I look up from my Mac. It was actually my sonâs computer. Heâd bought a new one to play video games on while on his second tour in Iraq. Â Heâd been home on leave three months earlier. His brother, sister, Dad, and I went to Best Buy with him.
âJoelâs dead. There are Army soldiers in the driveway.â
I push away from the table to look out the kitchen window. âMaybe heâs been hurt? This doesnât mean he was killed.â All the clichĂ©s about heart ripping and gut wrenching in moments like this are true, so thereâs no need to add them here. If youâve lost your child, you know. If you havenât, youâre right. You canât imagine.  I turn my inward eyes up and beg, âYou canât do this to me again, God! Please? Anything but this. Heâs just a baby, my baby.â
âThey donât send Army vans if youâre sonâs hurt. Remember last February? They called. Go let them in.â
I step out onto the front porch and open the door. Two soldiers stood dressed uniform. âYes?â
âAre you Deanna Arlene House?â one soldier asks. His voice is tight.
âYes.â Â Iâm saying, âyesâ but screaming âNOOOOOO!â Â âNot my baby, massahâ ricochets from an old slave movie I watched only one time in high school and couldnât bare that motherâs loss, so I never watched it again.
âAnd is your son Specialist Joel Amos House?â
âYes.â The one I carried while his 4-year old brother battled brain cancer. The one I rocked and wrestled. The guitar wielding soccer player who loved âTour of Dutyâ and James Bond video games. Iâm the one who knew his deepest secrets, fear of dying, fear of talking with people, and fear of not being smart enough around those people. Â We had him tested–twice–and he didnât have a learning disability. Â There was definitely something. Maybe the Army could help him.
âMaâam. Weâre sorry to inform you that your son was killed this morning at 6 am, Iraqi local time, by an improvised explosive device while out on patrol.â
âWha-?â âIt’s a hell of a thing, killing a man,â I hear Clint Eastwood say. âYou take away all he’s got and all he’s ever gonna have.â
âAre you sure?â Paul, who is standing behind me, asks.
âMay we come in?â a soldier asks.
I turn and walk back to the kitchen table. Â Grief pulls the chair out from under the table. Tears put my head in my hands. Â Loss rips through the crosscut in the fabric of my dreams. Â I had talked with him only two days earlier. Â I heard his voice and he heard mine. âIâll be only six hours from Fort Hood when you get home in January.â
âIs there anyone we can call for you, Maâam?â
âAll of her family is traveling. They are on their way back from the beach,â Paul states.
âCall Ruth, Paul. Call your sister, Ruth.â
Paul gives me the phone. Â He turns to the soldiers to ask details.
âWe canât give you many details, Sir. Â Tomorrow your casualty assistance officer will contact you. He will have reports.â Paul continues to ask them for details.
42 Comments
I am completely honored and humbled to be carrying the stone in memory of Sgt. House. All have given some, some have given all. This memory and his legacy will be with me for a lifetime.
Mr. and Mrs. House,
May 23, 2014 will always be a memorable day for Darlene and I. We knew two months ago this was going to be something truly special, but we had no idea to what extent. That morning we awoke to drizzle/rain in Brunswick, but we didn’t hesitate or care one bit. Joel never got a choice on the weather when he was serving so this was completely minor. Our first arrival on Pleasant St in Brunswick brought a lot of excitement from our chapter. Members were completely thrilled to be a apart of this. When we arrived in Portland the excitement definitely grew. The media coverage, boy scouts and other fellow riders were present. We were presented Joel’s memorial stone from a young cub scout that was probably 6-7 years old. As he read the card he struggled with some of the words, but HE READ IT, ALL OF IT. A very moving moment for us.
As we traveled north on 95 I felt this lump in my throat knowing I was carrying something very special. As we arrived at Dysart’s for lunch, Darlene grabbed Joel’s stone and we brought him to lunch. What a great thought on her part.
When we arrived at the Medway rest stop I could tell, first with myself and then with the rest of the group, that emotions were starting to build. Tears were flowing, hugs were everywhere. Yes we may be a bunch of bikers, but we sure do love our service men and women and what they’ve done for us and continue to do.
When we arrived and the bag pipes were playing, my heart really started to race. I was thinking, just hold it together for a short while longer. When we gathered as a group, I leaned over and said to Darlene, “there they are”. I recognized both of you from the video above. Words could not describe how we felt as we met and presented you with Joel’s stone. He was young, way too young, to be taken from you and our great state. But, his memory and legacy continue through the work you’re doing with House in the Woods (www.houseinthewoods.org). What a tribute and foundation!!!!
We look forward to staying in touch with you and hope in the future we have an opportunity to help with this new adventure to honor Joel’s memory and service. Thank you for allowing us to play such a small part and God Bless. Adam and Darlene
I woke up the morning of the hike with a somewhat heavy heart knowing what the day would bring. The rainy, overcast day seemed appropriate somehow and once at the event, several others shared the same view. Although one Gold Star mother said she thought her son was probably looking down and chuckling about us out in the weather as he loved a good joke. đ
The hikers were told to pick up their stone at Thompsonâs Island. When I arrived I saw them all laid out on a table. So many stones…. I had asked to hike with Army Sgt. Joel Houseâs stone because I had met both of his parents at other events. I spoke with his father, Paul, at Baxter State Park where he shared memories of Joel hunting and fishing and he told me about the House in the Woods organization that he started in his sonâs memory. It is a wonderful program that helps other Gold Star families and veterans come to terms with their own loss through the same outdoor activities that Joel enjoyed. I spoke with his mother, Dee, at the Run for the Fallen where she told me about how much Joel loved the family camp and that is where they picked the stone that I would be carrying.
I gathered up Joelâs stone and headed toward the bus. The ride to the trail was an event in itself as the driver, Red, was 90 years old and had been in WW2 as part of the first wave on Omaha Beach on D-Day. Unloading at the trailhead I stopped and thanked Red for his service and thought about how there are true heroes all around us.
I hiked with a great group of people. Many were strangers at the beginning but by the end had become family as our team leader, Heather McGlauflin, said at the summit. During the hike, we talked among ourselves, sharing the stories of our soldiers. I took pictures of Joelâs stone during the hike to send to his parents so they could see where his stone had been that day.
We as a group were focused and happy to be a part of the event – many smiles throughout and supportive comments. However, the closer we got to the summit, a much different attitude emerged as we knew the ceremony at the top was about to begin. We tried to keep our emotions in check as we laid the stones lovingly on the Maine state flag – to be honest, most of us did not have dry eyes.
We each took turns talking about our hero and what it meant to us to hike with their stone. I thought a lot about Joel and how much we seemed to have in common. Our love of the simple life at camp, hunting, fishing….and family. I spoke of all those things and I also talked about his death… how he died too young from an IED that exploded near his vehicle on June 23rd, 2007, his motherâs birthday. I had asked Paul if there was anything pre or post hike that I could do for his family and he asked only one thing. So at the summit I asked for a moment of silence and we, as a group, said a prayer for Joelâs family and the other Gold Star families. This was a very emotional and important moment in the hike for me as I felt a real connection to Joel during the hike.
Once the ceremony at the top was over, we headed back to Thompsonâs Island to speak with the families, eat together, and then hand off the stones to the Patriot Riders. This was the hardest part of the event for me – to hand over the stone that I had been carrying all day to someone else. I was very protective of the stone and didnât want anything to happen to it. The Patriot Rider that took the stone hugged me and told me that he would take good care of Joel.
The strength of these Gold Star families humbles me and I want to thank Dee and Paul House for the honor of getting to know them and allowing me the privilege of hiking with Joelâs stone. I carried Joelâs stone for a day but will carry his story in my heart for a lifetime. Maine heroes will not be forgotten.
On May 9 2015 I had the honor of carrying Joel’s stone in the Run for Heroes event in Presque Isle. I wanted to carry Joel’s stone because we share the same fierce commitment to our family and friends. At the event I met a gentleman (I didn’t get his name) but he stated he had spent time with Joel at camp during the summers when they were younger and he knew his family well. I struggled with my speech at the end of the event, at times pausing to keep my composure, and remember thinking that it is truly because of the selflessness and ultimate sacrifice that Joel and others have made that I am able to enjoy the freedoms we have. Thank you Sgt. Joel A House for your service.
MHANF
Barbara Lovely
On May 29, 2015 It was my honor to carry the stone for Sgt. Joel A. House of the United States Army while climbing Bigelow mountain. Joel died on June 23, 2007 due to wounds suffered by an explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was only 22, he left behind his mother, father, his older brother and, sister. Joel joined the army shortly after graduation, because he wanted to do his part in protecting his friends, family and country. Joel had challenges with academics so he took part in hands-on summer camp programs, he also went to Mexico as an exchange student. From what I’ve read, in addition to serving his country Joel was a fine young christian man striving to find his mission to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
As far as my experience it was quite the hike, I fell in a stream and being momentarily stunned I soaked up some water. Even though I was uncomfortable, sweaty, hot, and hurting, I walked with the pride of carrying the stone for someone who never gave up, and left fightinâ the good fight. This was my first summit project and I look forward to doing more in the future because the experience was very rewarding. This experience and his legacy will be carried with me for a lifetime.
Dear Deanna, Paul, Luke, Amelia, Amanda, and Joel:
Sunday, May 24th began as it should at Twin Pine Camps, as a part of The Summit Projectâs Baxter State Park weekend. As a light rain fell onto my face as I stepped out of the cabin at 5 am, the droplets reminded me of tears as they streamed down my face. Tears that were symbolic of your grief, but also tears from Heaven that Joel, and all our Fallen Heroes, were shedding in anticipation of the dayâs hike.
The day was extremely important in so many ways for me. It was an incredible honor to carry Joelâs stone, honoring him by keeping his life alive. It was also important for me personally, to share in the struggle of oneâs grief. As I would soon realize, the day was full of symbolism, and I was attune to it.
The woods and waters of this State are a refuge for me. Itâs where I feel most comfortable and also make my living. When we spoke the afternoon prior to the hike, you spoke of Joelâs love for the outdoors; whether it be hunting, fishing, recreating, or relaxing. Of all my time in the woods, I never felt so connected to my surroundings as I did hiking to the summit of Owl Mountain. While our group talked, laughed, and shared stories; it was if aside from this, there was Joel helping me to truly appreciate the beauty around. As we walked from a gorgeous stand of portly maple and birch glistening in the early morning sunshine to a stoic stand of tall spruce with a carpet of lichen, I couldnât help but really take in the majesty. Nature has a way of making your senses heightened, and I donât recall hearing the rush of a swollen stream sounding so sweet, almost melodic. In all of this, I couldnât help think of your son, his shared appreciation, and how he had some small part in this experience for me.
You also spoke of Joelâs love of his family, friends, and fellow soldiers. I could connect with the stories of swimming at camp when younger, Joelâs witty side, or his relaxation by the fire. On our hike, it was his presence and guidance I most felt a connection with when relating to my fellow team members. It was the offering of a hand to someone else in overcoming an obstacle, the connection of starting out as strangers but completing our hike as family, and sharing the beauty around through shared observations.
Perhaps the single greatest part of Joelâs legacy, and that of my fathers, was how we know theyâre with us. You spoke of the beauty that results after a ferocious storm in the form of a beautiful rainbow, spread wide across the sky with its brilliant hues. This has, and continues to be, your affirmation of Joel being there for you in life. While our day broke to be clear and sunny, offering stunning views of the peaks around Mt. Katahdin and the valley below, it was what happened at the peak which truly told me Joel was present.
Upon exiting from the scrubby brush that obscured the last quarter mile of the trail as we neared the summit, I was immediately taken aback by the enormity of not only the patchwork of granite rock and green forestland rising further above me, but by the sense of being in the right place at the right time. As I turned 360 degrees around, looking north, south, east, and west, it was what was above me that really resonated. A peregrine falcon; a symbol of liberty, freedom, and victory, moved effortlessly in the air currents above. It was at this moment, as if selected for me, that I knew Joel specifically, but all of our Fallen Heroes, were with us in spirit. As we organized the stones weâd carried for the circle ceremony, I kept watch of this falcon. As one of our team members, and active Army member, unfurled the Stars and Stripes he carried with him from Afghanistan, with its gritty sand still inside, this falcon disappeared. It was almost as if on cue, affirming a successful job well done.
One of my most memorable moments of the entire weekend was coming back from the hike. As I exited the building to applause from the families and TSP staff, a feeling I was not prepared for, I thought of who I wanted to receive Joelâs stone. The previous day, you had mentioned not being able to make it. As I scanned the long line of Gold Star Families, I was truly moved when seeing all of you standing there. It immediately made me think of how Joel must have felt, completing basic training, graduating, and then marching in to search the crowd and finding your proud faces.
I have no doubt Joel had a hand in the entire weekend. His being, while not physical, resonated from the moment I arrived. Just last week, while in the woods, I found myself coming to a height of land just after a rain storm had passed through. Alone, and with a cool guitar laden song on the radio, I stared out into the shimmering distance to see the largest vibrant rainbow. I knew then, that Joel would be with me for a lifetime.
It was an honor to carry Joelâs stone, a privilege to meet your family so I may understand Joelâs life, and itâs truly inspiring to hear of House in the Woods with its legacy of giving back to our military men and women.
Maine Heroes Are Not Forgotten
On 13 Sept 2015, Justin Cloukey wrote – My name is Justin Cloukey and I live in Lincoln, Maine. I was the co-coordinator for The Summit Project Comes to Lincoln, welcoming the Honor Case to our area. The event took place on August 7th and was a unique combination of pride and humility, joy and sadness, pain and comfort. Lincoln community members, active and retired servicemembers and Gold Star family members walked side by side through the streets of Lincoln sharing stories of loved ones, emotions and displaying unity to remember Fallen Maine Heroes. As the case indicates, it was my honor to coordinate such an event with so many affectived lives taking part.
Over the past 5 weeks, the case, stones and stories have proudly been on display at Machias Savings Bank’s Lincoln branch. My wife is the branch manager there, hence hosting the Honor Case at the facility. The staff have diligently stood watch, educating those showing interest on a daily basis. My hat goes off to their preparation, dedication and commitment.
This past week I had an incredibly unique opportunity. Emily Leonard, the aunt of my good friend since childhood, was nearing completion of the Appalachian Trail. She started her journey on March 9th, 2015 at Springer Mountain in Georgia. The plan was to summit Mt. Katahdin on September 9th, 2015, 6 months from her start date. My wife and I had been following her blog and discussed how great it would be to meet her at Baxter State Park and join her for the completion of her hike. My friend, Sean, and I coordinated our schedules and planned an overnight with Emily and her husband, Bruce. While making arrangements, my wife suggested I bring the stones of Army Sgt Blair W Emery and Army Sgt Joel A House. This was a great idea because not only did have the personal connections of knowing the families and working with ‘House in the Woods’ organization, but both Emily and Sean knew of the men through their school (Lee Academy). I packed my bags and stones and made my way north.
Sean and I stopped at a local store in Millinocket for a “quick” snack pickup on our way to the park. The man inside noticed the TSP magnet on my Jeep and asked how I was involved. I proceeded to tell him my stories and meeting up with Emily, aka “Black Bear”. Zachman asked to see the stones and I retrieved them from the vehicle. That’s when our quick stop became a time to share. Several more people showed up, some with connections to TSP and some simply interested in the concept. It’s interesting to note that NOBODY made it into the store when we were outside; all waited until we departed before carrying on with their day.
An early start of the Hunt trail proved difficult quickly. With Joel’s stone in my pack and Blair’s in Seans’, we marched forward into the humid wildnerness. I became fatigued and tired much more quickly than anticipated. The fog added denisity to the already heavy air. Both Sean and I realized we were in more trouble because we had the distinct disadvantage of not having 2,000 trail miles belts like our fellow journeywoman. As was the mindset of Joel and Blair, we must go forward, perservere and press on.
A pitstop at the magnificant Katahdin Stream Falls gave our legs a chance to rest as I interviewed Emily about her experienes and expectations for the remainer of the day. It was then I saw the strength of Emily as she took possession of Blair’s stone from Sean. The AT had NOT made her weak, it had made her STRONG. It reminded me very much of the military. Giving strength to the men and women who protect and serve, just as Joel and Blair did.
At the summit, I had an overwhelming rush of emotions that last at least half of the hike down the mountain. I was elated for Emily on her acheivement, thrilled for Sean as this was his first summit of Katahdin and tearful as I attempted to explain the meaning of the stones to on-lookers. I feel my, what seemed to be, lack of understandable words was masked by the tears in my eyes, cracking of my voice and willingness to continue speaking to share their stories.
The end of the day brought a different kind of conversation in the vehicles. Ones of honor, commitment, appreciation and support of our military. I am forever grateful to both our servicemembers and TSP for forever changing how I remember Maine Heroes such as Joel and Blair. I kept reminding myself that sore legs and a tired back are trivial in comparison to what Joel, Blair and so many others have endured and given for my freedom to climb that mountain and live this life. I can only pray that future TSP and Honor Case volunteers can be affected as I have been and wish the UMaine crew and beyond much success as I deliver the Honor Case to them in the following weeks.
To the entire House family:
I have spent the last couple of days since the TSP @ ANP event reflecting, gathering my heart and soul, and attempting to put on paper just how to thank you for the life changing event of carrying Sgt Joel A House’s stone to the top of Cadillac Mountain.
I am not a morning person by any means – however, waking at 430 on Saturday October 17, 2015 was the easiest wake up call I’ve ever had. I was energized, ready, and alert more than ever in my life. Thompson’s Island was coming alive as the stones and people arrived, and the sunrise was just magnificent, like a smile coming across the bay. It put my nerves about being out of my comfort zone at ease immediately.
Team Blackwood was tasked with the South Ridge trail – a gorgeous ascent with views of the harbor beyond compare. We got off the bus and as we walked to the Trail Head, the clouds opened up in large icy raindrops, a somber start to the hike. However – no weather was going to hold us down – we forged on arriving at Eagles Crag – drizzling and chilly and cloudy. Unpacking our stones to take a photo at the magnificent elevation, the rain seemed to stop – and as we all individually were climbing back to the trail a spot opened up in the clouds to the left over the bay and the sun blazed through as if to tell us “we are all here”. It was breathtaking. Just as we crested the first area of tree line – a rainbow appeared to the left – short lived but stunning – the pat on the back from our Heroes we all could feel.
Smiles and discussions and reflections ensued – by these team members that started as strangers and were quickly becoming a solid foundation glued by our mission and unified goal. We all discussed our Hero in depth – laughing at idiosyncrasies between each hiker and hero, and trying to hold back tears when deeper conversation brought to light the sacrifices our heroes have made. We reveled in the honor of just getting to know each hero as intimately as we could.
I personally hiked with a music playlist I created – half of the music I enjoy – and half of Joel’s favorites that I found during my research. “Simple Man” played over and over at one point – accidentally by a button pushed – however, I did not change it. I hiked in silent tears at points, thinking of how the lyrics spoke to a parent’s wish for their son and how Joel’s life was cut short of some of these hopes all parents have for their children. When the air got thin, and my body wanted to stop – Joel’s memory carried me on, pushing to finish what I started. The video of him playing guitar while the song played in my ears ran in repetition in my brain. The Summit Ceremony was moving and full of emotion from everyone when relating the stories of our individual heroes. It was impossible to not hold back the flood of tears and gratitude I had for Joel and his sacrifice.
I was fortunate that Joel’s cousin, Amanda and I were introduced by the fire at the base camp. Two strangers who had never met – Joel clearly placed us there at the same time. She laughed and her eyes lit up as she talked about how close her and Joel were – how he would constantly pull pranks at camp, and the story about her ruining his favorite Ninja Turtle sleeping bag. It was very evident just what a wonderful person he was, and how greatly he is missed by everyone who loved him. When it was time to hand the stones over to the Patriot Riders – I offered his stone to her to give back for the ride – there were plenty to hand across – she stated “finish what you started” – one of the most memorable pieces of this journey.
I am eternally grateful that I had the honor to carry Joel’s stone on my first trek with TSP. Like your first love – it will be the one I never forget every single detail about. I will continue to tell his story – encourage everyone I come in touch with to honor our Maine Heroes. I hope to meet you all soon, and pray that your continued work with House in the Woods brings veterans the respite they so desperately deserve. Thank you again for allowing me to ensure our Maine Heroes Are Not Forgotten.
Sincerely
Jackie Carter
I will be transporting Joel’s stone along with my husband during the Summit Project ride on 5/28/16, with the Patriot Riders Chapter 3. Having known Joel and his family since I was 12, this is an honor for me. I also look forward to passing Joel’s stone to Amanda Carey on arrival in Millinocket, Joel’s cousin and my best friend for the past 19 years.
Uncle Paul, Aunt Dee, Luke and Joy,
Two weeks ago as you know I carried Joel’sâ stone to the summit of Owl Mountain. I know known since October 2015 that I would be carrying his stone on Memorial Day weekend. It is something that I looked forward to since the day I knew. I have not climbed in Baxter since we climbed Katahdin that last time with Jeremy and Joel. The one when I had that haircut that made me look like the Hanson brothers. The one where Joel called me a baby because Jeremy carried me across the plateau on his back! The hike that Joel and I were so proud of! We made it, we had made it to the top of Katahdin! We were finally part of the big kids, we didnât have to stay at Katahdin Stream campground with the adults and pass the time by swimming in that FREEZING cold water!!
May quickly came and I found myself more and more nervous for the hike I was about to take. Every day I was thinking about what I would say when we reached the summit and how I could make everyone in my group realize how great of a person Joel was. I rehearsed it in my head thousands of times.
It was finally the week of the hike. Saturday seemed like it was an eternity away. I was flooded with emotions that week at work. Every time someone talked about what I was doing for Memorial Day weekend I would tear up and tell them with pride that I was going to carry the stone and story of my cousin who was taken from us too soon.
Saturday arrived, I was going to be receiving Joelâs stone from a Patriot Rider. A rider whom I have called my best friend for the last 19 years. Someone who Joel teased more times than I think he teased me! Sheâs my girl and I couldnât imagine a better person to bring his stone to me than Nicole. The waiting at Twin Pines seemed to take forever. Finally, we hear the roar of the bikes coming with our heroes! All I could do was smile! Knowing I was about to honor Joel in a way I never knew was possible! He was going to carry me up that mountain!
Sunday morning arrived, it was cloudy, 60% chance of rain and my ideal hiking conditions! We boarded the van. I climbed in the way back and noticed very quickly that my seat was wet and it smelled like wet white water rafting gear! My first thought âJoel, really?! That is your one and only joke you get to play today!â As you know, he loved to tease and play jokes on me! That was definitely his way of letting me know he was with us. Quiet conversation during the ride about our heroes and getting to know one another didnât mask the smell! When we approached Katahdin Stream Campground we unloaded, did one more gear check and started our way to the summit!
The hike was rigorous, wet, windy and pretty chilly. A lot of us were in shorts and as we approached the treeline began to layer up! It was COLD and wet! We stopped just before the treeline to share our stories of our heroes. I went first. Nervous is an understatement. I boasted about how great of a man Joel was and how lucky I was to have him in my life for 22 years. He was my best friend. My first friend. His memories will forever be in my heart. After the discussion and sharing the stories of our heroes we continued to the summit. We walked into the clouds. One of the team members said âIt’s like weâre sharing the heavens with our heroes!â And it certainly was! We could feel their presence.
Our descend was tough. I tweaked my knee and that climb down was painful. I kept saying to myself, âthis is for Joel, he wouldnât have given up and would be making fun of you for being in pain! Suck it up!â
Finally, we arrived back to base camp. I walked into the room with all the family and friends who were there to greet us. I see a familiar face and am so thankful to have Aunt Dee there waiting for me when I get back with Joelâs stone. We exchange a smile and I boastfully say âToday I carried the stone and story of Sgt. Joel A. Houseâ I am welcomed with a nice warm hug and an âI love you, sis.â Mission accomplished! This is a day that I will hold forever in my heart. Joel may not have been with me in person, but I know that he carried me up and down that mountain!
Love always,
Manda Mutt
Uncle Paul, Aunt Dee, Luke and Joy,
Two weeks ago as you know I carried Joel’s stone to the summit of Owl Mountain. I know known since October 2015 that I would be carrying his stone on Memorial Day weekend. It is something that I looked forward to since the day I knew. I have not climbed in Baxter since we climbed Katahdin that last time with Jeremy and Joel. The one when I had that haircut that made me look like the Hanson brothers. The one where Joel called me a baby because Jeremy carried me across the plateau on his back! The hike that Joel and I were so proud of! We made it, we had made it to the top of Katahdin! We were finally part of the big kids, we didnât have to stay at Katahdin Stream campground with the adults and pass the time by swimming in that FREEZING cold water!!
May quickly came and I found myself more and more nervous for the hike I was about to take. Every day I was thinking about what I would say when we reached the summit and how I could make everyone in my group realize how great of a person Joel was. I rehearsed it in my head thousands of times.
It was finally the week of the hike. Saturday seemed like it was an eternity away. I was flooded with emotions that week at work. Every time someone talked about what I was doing for Memorial Day weekend I would tear up and tell them with pride that I was going to carry the stone and story of my cousin who was taken from us too soon.
Saturday arrived, I was going to be receiving Joelâs stone from a Patriot Rider. A rider whom I have called my best friend for the last 19 years. Someone who Joel teased more times than I think he teased me! Sheâs my girl and I couldnât imagine a better person to bring his stone to me than Nicole. The waiting at Twin Pines seemed to take forever. Finally, we hear the roar of the bikes coming with our heroes! All I could do was smile! Knowing I was about to honor Joel in a way I never knew was possible! He was going to carry me up that mountain!
Sunday morning arrived, it was cloudy, 60% chance of rain and my ideal hiking conditions! We boarded the van. I climbed in the way back and noticed very quickly that my seat was wet and it smelled like wet white water rafting gear! My first thought âJoel, really?! That is your one and only joke you get to play today!â As you know, he loved to tease and play jokes on me! That was definitely his way of letting me know he was with us. Quiet conversation during the ride about our heroes and getting to know one another didnât mask the smell! When we approached Katahdin Stream Campground we unloaded, did one more gear check and started our way to the summit!
The hike was rigorous, wet, windy and pretty chilly. A lot of us were in shorts and as we approached the treeline began to layer up! It was COLD and wet! We stopped just before the treeline to share our stories of our heroes. I went first. Nervous is an understatement. I boasted about how great of a man Joel was and how lucky I was to have him in my life for 22 years. He was my best friend. My first friend. His memories will forever be in my heart. After the discussion and sharing the stories of our heroes we continued to the summit. We walked into the clouds. One of the team members said âIt’s like weâre sharing the heavens with our heroes!â And it certainly was! We could feel their presence.
Our descend was tough. I tweaked my knee and that climb down was painful. I kept saying to myself, âthis is for Joel, he wouldnât have given up and would be making fun of you for being in pain! Suck it up!â
Finally, we arrived back to base camp. I walked into the room with all the family and friends who were there to greet us. I see a familiar face and am so thankful to have Aunt Dee there waiting for me when I get back with Joelâs stone. We exchange a smile and I boastfully say âToday I carried the stone and story of Sgt. Joel A. Houseâ I am welcomed with a nice warm hug and an âI love you, sis.â Mission accomplished! This is a day that I will hold forever in my heart. Joel may not have been with me in person, but I know that he carried me up and down that mountain!
Love always,
Manda Mutt
To the family and friends of Joel,
Today Greg Johnson and I hiked up Table Rock Mountain in Maine with 44 children who all have a parent or sibling currently serving in the military. They carried 27 stones up the mountain today. Here is a letter from the campers that had the honor of carrying your hero.
“I feel honored to have carried Joel’s stone. I felt very proud to know that this brace hero was in my hands. We climbed Table Rock Mountain, and even though it was hard, Joel brought me right back up every time I got tired. He gave me a mission. This non-profit program is the best part of all! You are giving Joel a second chance at life., Thank you very much!
Love,
Abby”
A second camper carrying his stone would like to add their experience.
“It was an honor to carry Joel up the mountain. I know he would have done this hike as well, if he could. I think he was a very special man with a kind heart. Your family is amazing doing this non-profit program. I couldn’t imagine having a relative pass away and getting over it. You are all very strong and I hope you know that you’re doing a good thing by him with this stone. I will always carry his legacy.
Love,
Morgan”
To the family and friends of Joel,
Today Angel Matson and I hiked up Table Rock Mountain in Maine with 30 children who all have a parent or sibling currently serving in the military. They carried 24 stones up the mountain today. Here is a letter from the campers that had the honor of carrying your hero.
“It was a great honor to carry the stone of Joel House. It was also a learning experience. As a young child my Dad went to Iraq and it never really clicked that he might not come back. Thankfully my Dad came home, but I am sorry that Joel did not. I cannot even begin to understand your pain and loss and the struggles that you go through but I would still like to offer my small words of apology for the loss of such a great young man. I wish you all the best..
Sincerely, Richard”
I was honored to carry the story and the stone of Deon Taylor while my son carried the story and stone of Joel House on October 1, 2016. I have been participating in TSP for the past two years, escorting the stones so they can be carried up Katahdin as a Trooper with the Maine State Police. In the spring of 2016, I introduced my family to this wonderful project because it was that important to me. They immediately embraced it as I did. My son Colby continued to ask me in the weeks that followed his introduction to the project if he could carry a stone of a fallen hero to the top of Katahdin. I told him we would hike Cadillac first, and if he took it serious, he could hike Katahdin in the spring of 2017.
My son, Colby, and I signed up as hikers in the summer of 2016 to hike Cadillac. We could not have been more excited to participate. In August of 2016, we were given our assignments. I was assigned Deon Taylor while Colby was assigned to Joel House, the brother of one of my best friends, and the Uncle of one of Colbyâs best friends.
We began exploring as much research on the heroes that we could find. I started reading Taylorâs story and it sounded all too familiar. Taylor was a NYC native who grew up just a few towns away from where I grew up. Taylor loved the outdoors and visited Maine through the âfresh airâ program. I, too, visited Maine while growing up. As I continued to research Taylor I found that he was a narcotics detective as was I. I learned that Taylor was killed in Afghanistan by an IED after taking the place of a fellow soldier.
As for Colbyâs research, I explained as much to him as I knew about Joel and his wonderful family. We watched YouTube videos, read various articles, and I went over everything I could recall that was said during Joelâs funeral, eulogy, and celebration of his life in Lee, Maine. He soaked it up like a sponge.
Colby and I traveled 3.5 hours to get to the campground where we were going to sleep just a few hours before the hike. We knew that we were going to be tired; however, I reminded him that we had a mission that we could not fail at. We continued to talk about our heroes and the families that were depending on us on the ride up.
On the morning of the hike, Colby and I were honored to receive our stones. We saw them at the same time. It was humbling. I looked at Colby and knew he felt the same way I did. For those who donât know Colby, he is a clown 100% of the time. But that morning he had a STONE face. He was ready. I reminded him again of how important the mission was, and that complaining or failing was not an option. I did not have to remind him again.
As we hiked the Cadillac, we shared stories with other people on our hiking team; some immediate family members of the stones that they were carrying. We enjoyed the views and continued to think about the stones we were carrying for just a short period of time, as opposed to the families of the fallen that bear the burden for life.
Once at the top, we had THEIR ceremony. I canât describe how we felt. You have to take part in it to know. After the ceremony, Colby was given a challenge coin with Joelâs picture on it by Joelâs brother, Luke House. Joel will be remembered everyday as Colby keeps the coin in his room and cherishes it.
As for Deon, everything I have read about you leads me to believe that you were a leader. You will be remembered as you will have a spot on the wall in my office in Portland where you can continue to look over others, and enjoy Maine. Deon, I know your âMaine momâ said you didnât like to hike, but you enjoyed the views. I hope TSP has provided you with a good show every time. Until next timeâŠ
My name is Karen Staples and I had the honor of carrying Sgt Joel Houseâs story and stone up Bradbury Mountain on November 20, 2016. This hike was an opportunity to share Sgt Houseâs memory with a small group of Naval Academy Midshipmen who had the opportunity to learn about the Summit Project and our Fallen Heroes from Maine. By sharing Sgt Houseâs story with them it allowed them to also connect to a fellow soldier that was similar in age where he was killed in action at the age of 22. Sgt House greatly enjoyed the outdoors and liked to spend his time at his familyâs camp in Lee. As a continued remembrance, his family has started a summer camp scholarship so that all children can enjoy Maineâs wilderness the same way Sgt House did. I was able to connect with him and his family in knowing this because I feel all children should have the chance at this experience and this allows his memory of the great outdoors to continue through generation after generation.
My name is Zach Glidden I attended Nokomis Regional High school. Iâm a sophmore in highschool iâm also apart of JROTC. The program allowed me to participate in the summit project. This is where you carry a stone that the family of a fallen Maine soldier in honor for his services and to let his/hers family know that their life was not taken for granted. We hiked Little Bigelow it was a 6 mile hike up and down altogether. I carried Joel . A . Houseâs stone I was very honored to carry his stone. I was honored because I was able to remember and allow others to remember this fallen hero. Doing this also let me show that I care that he sacrificed his life for not just me but for everyone in this country.For this reason we should never forget what these brave men and women did for us. It was a great honor to carry his stone! my respect to him and his family.
My name is Camden Ege and I had the distinct privilege of carrying Joel Houseâs stone and memory at Baxter State Park. In my time post-service back in Maine Iâve had the opportunity to get to know Luke and his parents. As such, Iâve been fortunate to hear a lot about the type of person Joel was. He was a quiet, simple man who enjoyed the outdoors very much. His stone was even collected from the lake where he learned to swim and kayak.
When I received Joelâs stone on Saturday I was immediately overcome with a strong sense of familiarity. I have been around the stone before, so I recognized the smoothness, the scrapes, and the weight. More than the just the stone, I think this represented my thoughts towards Joel. His family, House in the Woods, and The Summit Project have all done such a great job keeping his legacy alive that I feel I know him.
As I hiked on that beautiful Sunday, thoughts of Joel flowed through my mind. This was my first venture up to BSP and I feel it showed me some of the outdoors life that Joel enjoyed so much. I canât imagine he wouldnât have enjoyed the peacefulness of the environment, or the stunning view from the summit. This isnât to say that it was just another Sunday stroll through the park, but the memory of Joel helped push through the pain.
My weekend began with a text conversation with Luke where he told me âthe family appreciates it.â After hearing that and interacting with other Gold Star family members it quickly became clear how powerful of an event this is. This is what Memorial Day is all about and I couldnât be happier that I participated.
Dear family of Joel,
I just finished hiking Table Rock Mountain with campers who all have a parent or sibling currently serving in the military. This is what two children had to say about carrying Joel
“Carrying Joel’s stone today was an amazing experience. Not only was it amazing to carry his spirit and legacy with me through this rock, but hearing the stories of him and others like him was truly inspiring. These amazing people fought for us and our country, even with their own life at risk. No matter what they had the true commitment and were selfless even though they might not be in the military, the family and friends serve too. I can;t imagine how afraid Joel’s close friends and family had felt when he joined the guard and left for Iraq, and how much grief and sadness followed after his passing. Whether you serve or know someone serving, you still are a part of our country and are being brave. Thank you for that.”
“I have never participated in the Summit Project before, and this was an incredible first experience. My father is also a sergeant in the Army, and also shares Joel’s first name. This was the first thing that really connected with me about SGT House. Carrying his stone up the mountain gave me the chance to carry another person’s memory to a place they could no longer go. I’m so profoundly grateful for this humbling experience.”
I would like to personally thank you for sharing Joel and his life with us and others who take part in this amazing program.
Dear Paul and Dee and all of the House family,
On August 11, 2017, I had the distinct privilege to carry the stone honoring your son, Army SGT Joel House, as I climbed to the top of Mt. Katahdin with my daughter who carried her own Summit Project stone in memory of another Maine fallen hero.
I selected to carry Joelâs stone after learning of the worthy commitment you have made to honor his sacrifice with the establishment of the House in the Woods project as well as after listening and learning how your summer camp was such a wonderful part of Joelâs life and that of his entire family. Although residing and raising my family in southern Maine, I was raised in âThe Countyâ where my large extended family still maintains my parentsâ lakeside summer camp and our north woods hunting camp for all to enjoy. I felt a real connection to Joel and to you due to my own deep appreciation as to how lucky we are to have such special places where so many joyous and lasting memories were and continue to be created and shared and where family bonds are forever forged to a new generation. And with the noble mission of the House in the Woods, deserving military families are able to experience what we have been so fortunate to have â what a fitting tribute to Joel and his legacy.
As for the hike and climb up Mt. Katahdin with Joelâs stone, I can honestly say that his spirit was certainly with me that day. While on the trail with more than a mile to go to reach the summit, we encountered a horrific thunder, lightening and hailstorm. Although fully exposed to the cold elements, we elected to try and wait out the storm to the disbelief of many hikers scurrying down the mountain. As stiffness developed due to the extended length of our wait, my thoughts were solely on Joel, his courage and commitment to our great country. As the storm lightened, we continued the climb. As I lead the way to the summit, I felt Joelâs strength with each step. Occasionally, my family members called out to me to slow down but my legs could not move fast enough as if I was being lifted. We reached the summit of Baxter Peak under clearing skies and it was with great pride and admiration for Joel that I held his stone while atop of Maineâs cherished mountain and the vast wilderness and waterways below which Joel surely treasured. I will always cherish and reflect on this special climb in memory of your son.
It was an incredible honor to carry The Summit Project stone of Army SGT Joel House.
Sincerely,
Peter Morin
It was a great honor to participate in the Summit Project on September 11, 2017 and to carry Army Sargent Joel A. Houseâs stone from USMâs Portland campus to the Gorham campus. Prior to the walk, I learned as much as I could about Joel. I felt a real affection for him, as some of his qualities, experiences, and values reminded me of my own son, now age 22 and recently enlisted in the Army. My affection and respect for Joelâand his family–grew as I walked several miles in the company of his brother Luke. Luke shared memories of Joel and his family and told me about the House in the Woods. I am humbled and inspired by Joelâs service and by that of his family (and others) in creating House in the Woods. A sincere thank you to the House family and the Summit Project for the privilege of âmeetingâ and honoring Joel House.
*These are Kaelynâs words, I am simply acting a scribe ~ Justin, aka âDaddyâ*
My name is Kaelyn Cloukey. I live in Lincoln, Maine with my parents, Justin and Jessica, and my little brother Blake. I am 9 years old. On October 5th, 2017, I hiked Cadillac Mountain at Acadia National Park with my daddy. I carried the stone and story of Army Sargent Joel House.
My dad thought I was going to be nervous about the hike, but I wasnât at all. When I woke up, I was trying to get ready as fast as I could because I was really excited for the hike. This was only my second hike Iâve ever done. My parents took me to Chimney Pond a couple of years ago and I loved it. The morning went by so slow because I was impatient waiting for the bus. It turns out it was a really long bus ride, longer than the one home from school. Whenever we listen to national anthem in the morning, I think about the soldiers every single time.
I know about Joel through House In The Woods and Paul and Dee. Dee has taken me to their house once and showed me some of Joelâs things. He used to play guitar, which I think is pretty cool.
When I was hiking, I thought about Joel. It made me feel happy because he was fighting for our country and he loved doing it. I had 2 goals during the day: I wanted to touch a cloud and I wanted to reach the summit. We got lucky because it was windy and cloudy near the top of the mountain, but it wasnât what I expected to be in a cloud. I thought it would be fluffy, white and not able to see anything.
When we were on the mountain, I kept saying to myself, âA soldier never gives up, so I wonât eitherâ. If I got tired, or even if I wasnât, I kept saying âMaine Heroes Are Not Forgottenâ under my breath.
When I got back to base camp, I couldnât wait to tell my friends about the journey. I was excited to talk into the microphone, but the closer I got, the more nervous I became. Thinking about Joel and how brave he was made it easier. I got to present Joelâs stone to his mom, Dee, and she gave me a great big hug.
To Paul and Dee, Joel was a very brave and kind person. I got to learn a lot of new things about him and I got to have a really good experience with him.
Mr and Mrs House,
My name is Cloyd Tavenner, and I had the privilege of carrying the stone and the story of Joel on 27 May 2018. It’s amazing to me that he has passed now these 11 years, but his legacy is stronger than ever. You have positively impacted the lives of roughly 900 veterans with your “House in the Woods” Military and Family Retreat initiative, in his name. I’ll always remember my time on the Owl trail at Baxter, speaking out on behalf of what I had thought I learned of him, and what I had drawn of it. Truly, Maine Heroes are Not Forgotten.
When I researched, I came away with the same impressions many did regarding Joel. As a transplant to the state, I commented that I found him to be a true Mainah. It seems the true Mainah finds his peace in Nature, hunting and fishing. A true Mainah will leave a relatively sparsely populated, minimally commercialized area for a much lesser populated area 4 or 5 hours away, to get away from it all. In “Maine-abama”, the music is Southern Rock, of which Joel was a fan. I mean no offense, I happen to be a musician who plays music with a lot of fellow Mainah’s, so I’m starting to get it. It is starting to remind me of a colder version of Benning Georgia and my time down south. Anyways….I guess I see him as a true son of Maine, endowed with the strengths and habits, likes and hobbies that define the State.
What intrigued me in my research were a couple of key points that you made regarding his experience with international kids at an early age, and his offense to 9/11, and the calling he felt to serve his country that came from it. It is amazing to me that a kid from Lee could grow up with so much international exposure, and I’m certain he was the richer for it.
I wondered about his time in Taji, a real gem of a location. During those years, Taji saw heavy insurgent action, and EIDs were frequent. That can’t have been any kind of comfortable environment to be in, and I wondered how it was for him to see his friends injured and taken by the enemy, and if he had a broader perspective of the local Iraqis. Talking to some of my friends who spent time over there, some had sympathy for the many locals who were just trying to survive, trapped between occupiers and militants, truly harsh. I wondered if he had felt empathy for those that were just trying to live. This led me to a broader consideration of the challenges we face as “rebuilding occupiers”. The job is tough. I wondered what he felt during a regular patrol, what combination of emotions governed his day.
On the climb and at the summit I did remember a classmate of mine, 1st Lt USAR Terry Plunk, who died in Desert Storm in 1991. He was 25 when he passed, and I thought, man, he is forever young….I’ve been looking at his picture for years, a good man, ….Didn’t get to experience the aches and pains of climbing the Summit. Just a little bit older than Joel. One thing I don’t wonder about though, is that the end of this life is not the end for Terry, and not the end for Joel. Like Terry, Joel was a devout Christian, and his faith has certainly been rewarded.
I’m very sorry for your loss, even all these years later. I can’t imagine what its like waiting to be contacted by the Casualty Assistance Officer. Adversity builds strength of spirit, and your strength is evident and marvelous to behold, in the legacy you have created to honor your son, and in the impact you have had in the lives of others you have brought some peace and comfort to. I Apologize this was a bit of a ramble, I’m told that’s okay. I’ll carry his memory along with the other friends I’ve had that have fallen in Service, and really the friends that I’ve lost outside of Service. Memorial day will always be a bit different for me now.
In regards to the general TSP experience, it was truly humbling to be in the presence of these Gold Star families, showing their strength, their humor, their appreciation for the simple fact we came to spend the weekend with them to remember their loved ones with them. It’s a great initiative, and one I’ll continue to support. It was great to join the presence of so many prior service, to share a drink and a laugh, it brought me back. Thanks to TSP, God Bless our Servicemen and Women, and our Fallen Warriors. My experience is still sinking in.
CT
This year I had the honor and privilege to carry the stone of Joel House. It was a fulfilling day to be part of this event. The weather was perfect! I canât imagine being home one day and that vehicle pulls in with the worst news of your life. I enjoyed talking about Joel and the man he was. I am sure if he was here today to see how proud his country is and the respect for his ultimate sacrifice for the freedom which we all enjoy it would make him happy. His memories will be shared for a long time to come and I am sure that I will be back to take part in another hike helping keep the fallen soldiers legacy alive. Mr & Mrs House I am sorry for all your loss and am very grateful to the service and sacrifice that Joel has made. May he forever rest in peace!
This year I had the honor and privilege to carry the stone of Joel House. It was a fulfilling day to be part of this event. The weather was perfect! I canât imagine being home one day and that vehicle pulls in with the worst news of your life. I enjoyed talking about Joel and the man he was. I am sure if he was here today to see how proud his country is and the respect for his ultimate sacrifice for the freedom which we all enjoy it would make him happy. His memories will be shared for a long time to come and I am sure that I will be back to take part in another hike helping keep the fallen soldiers legacy alive. Mr & Mrs House I am sorry for all your loss and am very grateful to the service and sacrifice that Joel has made. May he forever rest in peace!
On May 25th I had the Honor to ride to the summit with Sgt. Joel House. So people might think well its just a rock or stone. NO that stone means a lot. You can feel the love and emotion that comes out of it. My wife had the Spirit stone Family. When I saw that and we road together with Joel stone I explained to my wife how perfect she got the family stone. Because Joel was all about family. He felt like he had to join the Army to help his exchange student family that lived all over the world. Mr. And Mrs. House. I am sorry your loss. I am grateful for his service and sacrifice. MAINE HEROES WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN. JOSEPH W CORBIN CSC/SS USN ret.
This past Memorial Day weekend I was blessed with the honor and privilege of carrying the stone and story of your son U.S.A. SGT Joel A. House. The night before we where informed that we would definitely be hiking the back up trail because there was simply just too much snow still on Owl trail. Now this is not my first, nor my last, hike for TSP. But I was feeling very excited. Why you might ask? Well it was a new trail to remember another one of Maineâs children gone too soon and take all my memories and soldiers from previous hikes on another adventure in a new place. Little did I know what I was in store for….!!
As we all hiked along and started to converse this hike became instantly a little more special to me. Another hiker was carrying a stone that I have previously hiked, Blair Emery! My heart didnât know what way to go. Here we had two old friends together again for one more adventure. Those of you who may read this, and arenât aware, Joel and Blair are from the same town, the same age and unfortunately both where killed less than 6 months apart.
As we hiked the trail got a little soggy and slippery. Then all of a sudden we where at a beautiful lake and I just thought how Joel would love to fish one more time. A couple more steps and there was a perfect camping spot. I thought Joel would be elated to find such a place.
As we started up the long slick slope out of the valley from the lake team work was needed at a few places. Funny thing is no matter when or where we stopped me and the gentleman carrying Blair ended up in line together, coincidence? I think not!!
So as our hike got close to the end I really felt great, in my own mind. This hike was not nearly as physically demanding as others in the past for me. It was however mentally exhausting thinking about Joel and Blair.
Some day I hope to meet some of the House family at a TSP event. I would love to get some of the special inside stories about Joel. Joel will forever have a special place in my heart!
Love this! Wonderful tribute. Joel’s mom is my cousin and Blair was named after my grandfather. We are all connected.
Thank you!
18 June 2019
Dear Dianna and Paul, and to all of the family and friends of Joel.
On 14 June, I had the privilege of carrying Joel’s stone, along with 20 colleagues from Pratt and Whitney to the top of Mt Agamenticus, York, Me.
By no means an arduous walk, we had many people of different abilities and ages, I think that Mt A was the perfect TSP event for us to walk and talk to others, whom we didn’t necessarily know or would not ordinarily have met, but for this event.
That was simply 1 strand of many, which made me appreciate Joel and the life that he lived.
It was striking to me, that at 22, there was so much written about Joel, that I wondered how I would try to sum up a man, that I’d never met and, on the face of it, had so little in common with. This was far from the truth. As I read and learnt about Joel, I felt a kinship, you might almost say that many of the differences created a path to common ground.
He wasn’t comfortable at school – neither was I, in truth I was a very disruptive student, but like Joel had the benefit of patient and great humans as teachers who persevered with us.
We were influenced, and heeded the call to arms for our nations, by attacks upon them; Joel by 9/11, me by the Falkland Islands Campaign in 1982 – yes I’m a limey.
Our military paths were different trajectories, but I suspect had hidden intersections. Joel was a tank driver, a difficult and demanding position, as a tank that isn’t mobile is less than 70% effective. I was an Officer in British Army, my last posting, was that of Sqn 2I/C and Ops Officer for a Tank Transporter Sqn. We would move the tanks from barracks to tactical locations, or from one tactical area to another. To offload we would run a filter point, typically I would be the OIC and command the situation.
A filter point basically consisted of the transporters pulling up, leaving approx. 30-40 feet between each other. My crews would unshackle the tanks and the driver would climb aboard and start their engines. It would sound amazing and earth shattering. The tanks would be unloaded, so that you would have transporter – tank, transporter – tank and so on, typically at least 20 of these chains.
Once the off load was complete, the last transporter would signal me, loud sound of their horns. This meant that they were ready to move. It also signaled to everyone else, tanks and transporters, be ready to move.
I know that this sounds completely non tactical, and it was, but we were ruled by peacetime rules – for good reason.
Anyway. Once I had received the signal, I would stand there in the middle of the road, fluorescent vest on and traffic wand in had (this really hurt me at first, having come from a field unit, but I grew to appreciate the need).
Then would start a procession, advancing on me, truck one way, tank another. The speed of the advance would grow faster. My drivers would drive close to me, to make me flinch. The tank drivers would drive close to me to make me flinch. It was a game, they were all consummate professionals, in command of their vehicles and would succeed, but we would always have a laugh and a joke about our antics afterwards. I can see Joel being such a man. A ready smile, a puckish sense of humour, but above all a care for those around him.
I waffled on a lot about my experience, not from ego, but to try to give you an idea as to how we’ve shared a common thread, Joel and I. Also to try to give you a sense of some of the things that he would have experienced, not in conflict, but as part and parcel of his daily professional life, training to protect his country.
No words can ever bring Joel back, but in being able to read and learn about him, I can share his story and thus, hopefully, keep his memory fresh, as others have, are doing and will do.
On a final note, I would just like to say that Joel is an impressive man. He and his generation have done much. As I said in my recitation, we need to have “pride in Joel and the men and women of his generation”. They have steel and have proved themselves more than equal to the challenges presented to them.
I would also like to thank you for the good works that you are doing in Joel’s name.
My words really aren’t adequate, for which I apologise. Please just understand that the spirit of Joel now marches on with an extended family. All those that have carried his stone and then those that have been told about such a vibrant young man. Like ripples in the pool, his deeds will spread outwards.
Thank you and I hope that this missive finds you in good health.
Cheers.
Geoff
September 28th, 2019
Dear Paul, Dee and Family,
I honestly donât even know how to put the experience of carrying Joelâs stone into words. It was an experience like no other. It was beyond an honor and privilege to be able to carry his stone to the summit of Cadillac Mountain.
I signed up for this hike last minute when I found out they needed hikers. I was a little hesitant at first because I hadnât hiked in about 15 years or so. I also hadnât been very active lately. I signed up anyway and knew I would somehow get through it. When I got my stone assignment in my e-mail I was in complete misbelief. I couldnât believe of all the stones I could have been assigned that I was assigned Joelâs stone. As one of my friends put it, âIt was a God wink.â I do believe this fully. Although I never met Joel and didnât know him or much of his story, I do know some of the House family quite well. I have also had the pleasure of meeting you (Paul and Dee) about 6-7 years ago I think it was.
I was on team Bubble and we climbed Pemetic NW trail, Pemetic North Ridge trail and Cadillac West Face trail. From what I was told and experienced that day it was the most extraneous hike that was being done that day. At this point I wished I had signed up earlier and prepared better. Oh well, it was too late for that. On the bus ride to our drop off I kept thinking of Joel and how he had probably ridden a bus to the airport to leave for his deployments. I was also thinking how could climbing a mountain with his stone even begin to represent the amazing person and soldier that he was. How could one climb even begin to represent his memory and the ultimate sacrifice he made for this Country? Once we reached our drop off point and unloaded, the hike began. The steep climb up began within the first few steps. After about 15-20 minutes of hiking my legs were starting to hurt and my breathing was getting heavier. My thought was, âoh man how am I going to get through this hike if Iâm tired and sore already?â Well, thatâs where Joelâs memory began to give me strength and the perseverance to keep going. I thought about how many times while he was deployed that he must have felt tired and sore but had to keep going just to stay alive. He endured so much more then I was on this hike. As the hike continued and I continued to think about Joel and all he had gone through in his 2 deployments to Taji, Iraq I was able to keep going for him, his family and his friends. The tiredness subsided as did my sore legs. The views we saw along the hike were amazing. I bet Joel would have loved the views as well sense he had a love for the outdoors and adventure.
I do believe Joel and many other fallen heroes were watching over all us the day of the hike. There were some spots that scared me and I just prayed to God that I wouldnât fall. I could feel God and Joelâs spirit helping my overcome my fears and keep going. I truly felt blessed to be able to do this hike and to be able to carry Joelâs stone and story. I hope to learn ever more about Joel in the future. He seemed like an amazing person.
Iâve had some time now to reflect on my hike and I believe I have gotten some answers to the questions I was asking myself on the bus ride to our trail drop off. Iâve learned that yes, the hike is amazing and sharing the story of Joel at the Summit was emotional and hard at times. But that is just the beginning. Joelâs memory will continue to stay alive because there will be many more hikes where his stone and story will be shared. Also, his memory and his family are forever engraved in my heart. I will never forget Joel and his ultimate sacrifice. I will continue to share his story with anyone who is willing to listen. I will continue to be a part of The Summit Project. I will share what The Summit Project is and represents. I will carry Joelâs memory with me every day. This still feels like nothing compared to what Joel, his family and friends have gone through. He lost his life to save ours. He lost his life for people he didnât even know. He is an inspiration to me! May you rest in peace in Gods arms Joel A. House.
Paul and Dee, you raised an amazing son! You raised a son that was willing to put others before himself and to do it with his whole heart. You raised a Godly man who wasnât afraid to face the demons of this world. You raised a true soldier. A soldier of Gods army and the United States Army. You should be very proud of the man you raised! Iâm so sorry you lost your son! I canât even imagine how that must feel. I do hope I was able to do his memory some justice. He will never be forgotten!
Love,
Allison Wilcox
Dear House family,
After spending some time reflecting on this matter, it brings me peace to write to you. Unfortunately, the ruck that I was scheduled to carry Joelâs stone in was canceled due to public health concerns. Nonetheless, I wanted to write to you to share what Iâve felt while getting to know Joelâs story.
I have no doubt that had I ever had the pleasure of meeting Joel, we wouldâve been friends. As I read about his life, I became emotionally invested in his story and found myself relating immensely to a lot of things about him. Like Joel, I play guitar, love the outdoors, and enjoy short-witted humor more than most. The more I learned about Joel, the more clear it became to me that I was carrying the right stone.
Although I didnât end up carrying the stone in a ruck, I spent a lot of time thinking about the weight of the sacrifice that Joel made. So few are willing to give up anything, while Joel gave up everything. Itâs impossible to imagine the sense of selflessness that would lead a man to return to a fight that had left him scarred once. Itâs men like Joel that allow us to sleep in peace at night.
Words can only say so much on this topic, so Iâll leave you with this and hope that it conveys the emotion with which it was written. Joelâs sacrifice is not only recognized, but it is felt. âFreedom isnât freeâ may be a cliche, but the sentiment couldnât be more accurate. I hope that every day, Iâm able to live a life that is worthy of what was lost.
Respectfully,
Andrew J White, Jr.
â„ïž
To the Family & Friends of Army SGT, Joel A. House
On Sunday, May 24, 2020, I had the honor & privilege of carrying the stone and story of Army Sgt Joel A. House who was from Lee, Maine up to the summits of six mountains in Acadia National Park. This was my fourth hike with TSP here in Acadia, however, this hike was supposed to take place in Baxter State Park and would have been my first hike with TSP in Baxter. But due to the Covid19 pandemic that event had been canceled. I live here in Southwest Harbor and Acadia National Park is essentially my backyard.
I chose to join TSP @ANP 4 years ago as I thought âWhy not? Itâs a great event and how could I not join as I hike in Acadia every day so why not thank our fallen heroes as I get to do something I love?â However, itâs never âjust a hikeâ. When you participate in TSP you feel a sense of belonging to a family with folks youâve never met before. You are all there to thank Maineâs fallen heroes and honor them for their service as well as the ultimate sacrifice they all made for us. It brings you together so the feeling of true humanity is tangible and that gives me such hope for a better tomorrow. Even though this spring hike in Baxter did not happen according to plan we all still pulled together as a Team and completed our hikes individually for our heroes and that again encourages me to have faith in humanity.
Army Sgt Joel A. House died at the tender age of 22 when an IED detonated near his vehicle in Taji, Iraq on June 23, 2007. He was serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He left behind his parents, a brother & a sister, and many other family members and friends.
Listening to the stories of all the fallen heroes of my Teammates is always an emotional time. Itâs important to hear these stories and say the soldierâs names out loud so our fallen heroesâ lives do live on and remain a part of all of us. We have the freedoms we do thanks to those who served, continue to serve, and sacrificed all for this great nation.
We couldnât hear all the names being shared for this hike (due to Covid19 and being in separate places) but we said them aloud anyway. I know I gave my speech about Joel on the highest mountain (Sargent) on my trek that day. I had taped a photo of his stone to a stone that I thought resembled the shape of Joelâs. His stone lay on Red, White & Blue flag material and I surrounded it with 12 heart-shaped stones. Those hearts represented each team member & their hero on my Team Blue including myself & Joel. After my speech about Joelâs life, I played one of his favorite songs that he loved to play on the guitar, âSimple Manâ. I sang along to the words and thanked Joel after it was over. I then read each name of the other heroes that were also assigned to my Teammates for this event. I wanted to say their names aloud and share their memories with Joel as well. Saying the heroâs names aloud helps make them real for us and makes their memory live on.
I know Joel would have loved hiking up and over those 6 peaks with me that day as I enjoyed the sense of freedom and peace the outdoor brings. I know he would have loved being at one with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors. I also know he planned to go on with schooling to become a Game Warden after his service in the Army was completed. Joelâs love of the outdoors was prevalent and in sync with my love for the outdoors on the hike. I cherished every step I took for him and his honor.
I hope I get to meet Joelâs family in person one day. I was so looking forward to meeting them in Baxter and I also hope and pray they can make it to Acadia this fall.
Many thanks from the bottom of my heart to Army Sgt Joel A. House and all of Maineâs fallen heroes. I salute you and I will never forget you. #MHANF
Sincerely,
Florence A. Dunbar
To Paul, Dee, Family & Friends of Army SGT, Joel A. House
On Saturday, September 26, 2020 I had the honor & privilege of carrying the stone and story of Army Sgt Joel A. House who was from Lee, Maine up two summits in Acadia National Park. I was on Team Tarn hiking up Dorr Mtn & to the summit of Cadillac Mountain. This was my fifth hike with TSP here in Acadia, however, it looked very different than all the rest due to the COVID pandemic. But even though it looked differently all our hearts, bodies & minds were still focused and devoted to honoring our heroes.
This was my second time honoring Army SGT Joel A. House as I had the privilege of hiking his story back in the spring of this year when the pandemic was in full swing and TSP was not allowed to participate in the Baxter event. But this time I not only had his story, but I also had his stone. Something very tangible and real that makes you feel the connection even more deeply. I also got to speak with Paul House, Joelâs Dad before the event and that always helps you connect and feel the presence of your hero even more. To have actual stories & memories told from a loved oneâs point of view is such an honor to hear and brings the humanity of this event to your core.
At our circle ceremony on top of Cadillac Mountain all the heroâs names were spoken and more connections were made with each soldier as the stories were told out loud. Saying the heroâs names aloud helps make them real for us and makes their memory live on.
I know Joel would have loved hiking up and over those two summits with our Team for this event. We all enjoyed the sense of freedom and peace the outdoor brings. I know he would have loved being at one with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors. I also know he planned to go on with schooling to become a Game Warden after his service in the Army was completed. Joelâs love of the outdoors was prevalent and in sync with my love for the outdoors on this hike as well as it was in the spring. I cherished every step I took for him and his honor.
I hope I get to meet Joelâs family in person one day. We missed all the Gold Star family members at this event (as they were not allowed to participate due to the COVID pandemic) I hope and pray they can make it to a TSP event one day as TSP can help them continue to heal from the loss of their great son.
Many thanks (again) from the bottom of my heart to Army Sgt Joel A. House and all of Maineâs fallen heroes. I salute you and I will never forget you. #MHANF
Sincerely,
Florence A. Dunbar
Dear family and friends of joel, it was my honor to have had the chance to carry Joel’s memorial stone during the hike at Acadia this year. We had quite a few unexpected changes to the hike and ended up hiking to echo lake instead of summiting cadillac. I personally thought this change was a wonderful opportunity to bring joel on a journey he hadn’t gone on as a stone before. During the hike I felt like he was walking right beside me step for step. I enjoyed learning that he played guitar as that has been a big goal of mine to learn. It was funny because my brother and I would play James bond’s golden eye on the n64 as kids and I couldn’t help but smile when I learned he enjoyed the same. Once we got the the beach we started our stone ceremony which was truly a tear jerking 40 minutes. As I shared about joel I think everyone truly embraced him allowing him to live on through more people. After the ceremony I decided to go for a swim which I felt he would have done too. After that we walked back to the campground and returned the stones safely. I am truly humbled and honored to have carried joel and I will never forget who he was. Sincerely Christopher Douphinett
To the family and friends of Army Sgt. Joel A. House,
I had the distinct honor and privilege of carrying Joelâs stone up the Owl for TSP at BSP 2022. This was an extra special event for me this year as it was my first time at our Baxter event where we were to finally climb the Owl. My first season was changed due to snow remaining on the mountain and the last few years were virtual. When I learned that I would be carrying Joelâs stone AND climbing the Owl with TSP for the very first time, I felt overcome with many emotions. We would be returning home and I would be able to bring Joel along on an absolutely incredible journey for this monumental event.
I have been honored to be a part of the planning for our event with House in the Woods this July. But I was truly honored when I was placed as the ATL for our Team Blue this year knowing that Joel would be my companion for this adventure of a lifetime. I was proud of how quickly our team came together in spirit despite the millions of black flies that would swarm us any time we stopped to take a few sips of water or to catch a few extra breaths. We continued to cross streams barefoot, step over boulders, climb up the mountainâŠand we even had some teammates who stepped into roles helping others without even being asked. Our team encountered some incredible sights along our trail and I felt very much at peace knowing that I was bringing Joel on a hike that Iâm sure he would have enjoyed. It was perfect just simply being in nature that day. It was a perfect day to climb and to be with one another.
As we shared stories at our ceremony, I looked around at our team and I was truly honored and blessed to have them come into my life this day. I was humbled to be able to share Joelâs stories and honor his memory with such an incredible group of humans. I will forever be grateful for this opportunity to share his story and to carry his stone with me on this beautiful hike. I look forward to continuing to speak his name and I promise that he will never be forgotten.
MHANF,
Courtney âGPSâ Evans
Joelâs family and friends,
Our hike was set, the weather was not. Remnants of a hurricane threatened to blow us off course. That wasnât going to happen. Leadership decided it was safe to hike, and they made the right call. It was a bit breezy, but nothing compared to what our heroes endured ensuring our freedom!
It was a great hike with an excellent team. We tackled the South Ridge Trail at Acadia National Park. Stories of heroes were shared. Tears and laughter.
Joel being the simple man with a big heart hit me. I find my happiest times are out in the woods taking in the landscape, thinking about how old the place is, how many people regarded it as sacred. These are the simple times for me. My life and Iâm sure Joelâs was a bit more complicated, but taking the time to slow down and enjoy the simple things will all make us better people.
Deanna: Thank you for spending time and telling me stories of Joelâs life. House In The Woods is an amazing tribute to Joel. The people that have been saved, not only the Veterans, but the spouses and even the volunteers have been affected by the outpouring of love that happens there. You have an Angel looking over you! âTogether We Healâ isnât just a motto, itâs the way things happen at HITW.
Mike âBazookaâ Peterson
MHANF!
Mr. and Mrs. House,
On 9/23/2023, I carried the memorial stone and story of your son, Sgt. Joel House to the summit of Cadillac in Acadia National Park with the Summit Project. I prepared Joelâs story the best I could for the circle to share. However on the hike, I learned so much more about him through those that were on my team that either knew you that heard above and beyond or simply have carried his stone in the past and researched a bit more than me. This proves that his story has continued on! Joel may have been humble and quiet, but he made a big impact on those that continue to ensure he is not forgotten! You raised an amazing son! He raised his right hand to swear into the military. Most do not even make this commitment. His sacrifice to our country will never be disregarded!
âBoy, don’t you worry, you’ll find yourself
Follow your heart and nothing else
and you can do this, oh, baby, if you try
All that I want for you, my son, is to be satisfiedâ
– Lisa Martel / ANP TSP 2023
To the Family & Friends of Army SGT, Joel A. House
On 2/2/24 I carried Joel’s stone on our hike at Katahdin High School. During this time I realized how honored I was to be a part of this. This was an amazing experience, and I am so thankful that I was able to take part in this.
I had the privilege to carry the stone of your son Army Sgt. Joel A. House. I was the passenger on my Dad’s motorcycle and I felt so incredibly special to carry your son’s stone, from Portland to Baxter State Park.
I am a 14 year old who will be entering High School in the Fall. I have learned many things about Joel by reading his story. I cried for the sacrifices he made that we are so lucky to have today.
My grampa served in the Army and Navy and growing up he always talked about the importance of our military and honoring them, by thanking them when we see them and by paying our respects to the fallen heroes. I know that so much of what he taught me about respecting our heros made an impact on how I felt about carrying the stone of Army Sgt. Joel A. House.
When we rode the convoy to Baxter State Park I got to share his story with others, especially at the lunch stop when we set his stone on the table so he could be with us. I felt proud that I could tell others about him and his sacrifices.
I think one of my favorite moments was when we rode down Main Street in Millinocket,there were so many people who lined up along the road and waved to us, some saluted us and some waved flags. At that moment I truly felt special that I was chosen to tell his story, share his legacy and honor him.
I know that I will forever think of this experience and remember your son for the hero he was and continue to share his story, I even got the opportunity to report back to school in my classes to talk about my experience and about your son Joel, I hope that if anything from this experience that someone will tell his story and share it so that he will never be forgotten.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of his journey to Baxter State Park and for his legacy he has left not only in Maine but for the entire country.
My name is Rob Martel from Lisbon, Maine. On August 10th I participated in my first Ruck for the Fallen at Pineland Farms. This was not my first TSP event as I have hiked at Baxter once and several times at Acadia. For the Ruck, I had the honor and privilege to carry the stone and story of SGT. House.
It has been a long time since I have hiked with a weighted ruck. I wonât lie, I started to struggle halfway through the 6 miles, barely made some of those hills! It has been awhile that I had to dig so deep to finish a challenge like this. I just kept thinking of SGT. House and his sacrifice which made me keep going!
I too served and was in Iraq from 2004-2005 with the Maine Army National Guard. My battalion had some that did not make it home from that deployment. Very sad times for all of us!
SGT. House, thank you for your service my brother! Although your stone is small, I felt the weight of all those that knew you, love you and miss you terribly! As long as there are people like myself, your story will never be forgotten!
Sincerely,
Rob Martel
I had the honor of carrying SGT Joel A. Houseâs stone to the summit of Katahdin on September 11th, 2024. It was an absolutely beautiful day and clear at the summit. We stopped at Chimney Pond and enjoyed a few moments of peace in that stunning location. The climb was definitely a challenge for me and knowing that I was carrying Joelâs stone and on such a significant day helped encourage me to make it to the top and back down. I am grateful for the opportunity to have this honor and the company and encouragement of great friends, old and new.
It was my honor and privilege to carry Joelâs story and stone . This was my first hike and my first experience with the Summit Project. My best friend Amy Turner said they needed more people to help and this cause really called to me because my son is US Army active duty senior drill sergeant . I have had the privilege of meeting Joelâs family before when my motorcycle group did a charity ride for The House in the Woods. I love how Joel was a true âMaineâ boy who loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing and playing guitar. I have no doubt that if Joel and my son would have met they would have been good friends. Joel was a courageous young man and so is his family. Carrying Joelâs stone has truly inspired me to appreciate every moment of every day. When I told my son that I was doing the Summit Project hike and told him about Joel, he said âI will honor him in my prayers and morning drill he will never be forgotten.â