Joel was born in Lincoln, Maine on November 21, 1984. He graduated from Lee Academy, Lee, Maine in 1984.

He loved the Maine outdoors. He enjoyed canoeing and kayaking on Silver Lake where his family has a camp that has been passed down through 4 generations. He loved playing video games and was becoming a proficient guitar player. He spent summers with me in Guadalajara, Mexico where he was learning Spanish.

Joel spent 2 weeks in March with us--Mom, Dad, brother Luke, and sister Joy--in Tampa, Florida before he died. He was recovering from injuries suffered during a suicide bomb attack on his barracks in February.

Joel was killed on my 47th birthday and my life has changed dramatically forever. In his memory, we have established the Sgt. Joel A. House Summer Camp Fund which helps financially-needy Maine children attend an academic, sports, visual/performing arts, conservation, or Bible camp of their choice. Go to http://sgtjoelhouse.com to find out more about Joel and this scholarship.

Joel, I miss you so much. Your brother Luke just had a little boy they named after you. I would give anything if you could meet him. You'd probably toss him around and tease him like you did your younger cousins. You died too young to find your dreams. Thank you for being our hero and giving Americans the opportunity to find theirs.

I send you a kiss and a hug: Besos, abrazos, y apapachos.

Deanna House, Mother