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The 2024 SFC Charles A. Judge, Jr. Memorial Stand Down event is scheduled for Friday, March 8, at the USC-Upstate Readiness Center in Spartanburg from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (with doors closing at 1). It is located at 301 N. Campus Blvd. This event is in honor of our local hero, Charles A. Judge Jr., and aims to help Veterans who are homeless or at risk of being homeless, or any Veteran with a need, as well as their family members.

SFC Judge, a native of Landrum and graduate of Landrum High School, served for 21 years in the SC Army National Guard, including a tour of duty in Iraq. His National Guard awards were numerous and include the Army Achievement Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Overseas Service Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Parachutist Badge and Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters.

Charles helped initiate, along with Dr. Craig Burnette, the first Stand Down in Spartanburg in 2013 where he served as Logistics Coordinator. Charles was tragically killed on July 24, 2016, as he defended a young woman escaping violence. He sacrificed his life to fulfill his ultimate duty to serve and protect. The 2024 Stand Down event is a fitting tribute to his undeniable valor, true heroism and his life’s service to all veterans.   

He was a key leader in the growing number of veterans served each year in the Upstate and the outstanding outcomes that resulted from his diligent work. He effectively sought every opportunity for improvement and expansion at this event. The first Stand Down held in his honor was in 2019. His passion for veterans was relentless.  He wanted every soldier and veteran to know that their lives had meaning and that their experiences and sacrifices mattered.  It is in this mindset that organizers pull together each year to not only bless our men and women with material goods and resources, but to unite to honor them on this day.

Veterans in need will receive free goods and services, such as haircuts, medical and vision screening, meals, clothing and comfort kits, as well as information on housing and employment opportunities and mental health services.

Please consider supporting and/or participating in the SFC Charles A. Judge Jr Memorial Stand Down. Join the many Stand Down leaders, schools, businesses and agencies as we honor Charles and carry on his relentless commitment to serve those who have so diligently served us. 

For more information, visit charlesajudge.com.   

 

Submitted by Barbara Briant