On average, 22 veterans take their own life on a daily basis.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is prevalent in our veterans and soldiers’ lives. Tails of Valor, Paws of Honor Program in Quakertown is doing something to help our Veterans improve their quality of life, while honoring many soldiers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

The Northampton boys volleyball team has partnered with Tails of Valor, Paws of Honor to raise awareness of the struggles some Veterans face. Having the assistance of a service dog can dramatically improve a veteran’s quality of life. The team is committed to raise awareness of the organizations mission while soliciting for funds to support such a program.

On April 12, the team challenged themselves and others to participate in a 22 Challenge. Each day, they have committed to doing 22 pushups to demonstrate their commitment to our veterans. The team has dedicated their last day of the challenge, Wednesday, May 3, as a community awareness and charity game.

Northampton boys volleyball will take on the Emmaus Green Hornets in a league game that has become known as “Volley for Valor.” Northampton High School’s military recruiters, enlisted students, Northampton boys and girls volleyball teams, and Emmaus’ volleyball will honor our soldiers of past and present in a special ceremony.

Tails of Valor, Paws of Honor will be accompanied by several of their puppies in training including “Nick.” Nick was named after LCPL Nicholas Rodriguez, Marine Corps. Nick graduated from Northampton High School in 2006, and worked at Willow Brook Golf Course until joining the US Marine Corps. LCPL Rodriguez served honorably with Alpha Company, 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division. He deployed to Afghanistan for a nine-month tour of duty in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, earning the rank of Lance Corporal. LCPL Nicholas T Rodriguez lost his battle with PTSD, March 1, 2011, at Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base, San Diego, California. He was 23 years old.