News Center: December 2024

Juan Vargas: A Veteran's Journey from Service to Advocacy

Juan Salcedo Vargas, Jr., a 49-year-old retired Marine Corps veteran, reflects on his transformative journey from military service to civilian life. Vargas joined the Marine Corps just two months before the September 11 attacks and dedicated 20 years to serving his country, completing nine deployments, including two year-long tours in Afghanistan. Despite the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, including grappling with PTSD and redefining his identity, Vargas has found purpose in supporting fellow veterans and students at City. He emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and open discussions about mental health, aiming to foster an inclusive environment for all veterans and their families.