John Whaley, a survivor with a determination to serve

By James Auvil

John Whaley is a veteran, father, husband, student and post-traumatic stress disorder survivor. He is not pursuing a college education to find a career or earn a degree, but to prove his past does not define his future. His determination to continue his education is rooted in years of perseverance and overcoming obstacles.

Whaley joined the U.S. Army already carrying the responsibility of being a father. He served as a combat engineer, one of the military’s most demanding roles, clearing routes, detecting explosives and ensuring safe passage for fellow soldiers in high-pressure environments. His service strengthened his resilience and reinforced his belief that no obstacle is too great to overcome.

Today, as a 90% disabled veteran, his fight continues in a different way. He lives with post-traumatic stress disorder, a reality faced by many who have endured traumatic experiences.

“Living with PTSD is not a sign of weakness,” he said. “It is the result of surviving intense experiences in and out of the military and continuing forward anyway.”

Rather than allowing PTSD to define him, Whaley views it as another challenge to face and overcome.

He is the father of five children, ranging in age from 20 to 5. His role as a father has long been intertwined with his military service, but now, as a civilian, he sees an opportunity to be more present — especially with his youngest daughter.

“This was God giving me a chance to enjoy my kids’ childhood,” he said.

Whaley said his understanding of grace and patience within a family was shaped by his upbringing. Raised by his grandparents, he learned “what unconditional love and selflessness look like.”

“They gave without hesitation and taught me that perseverance matters, especially when life feels heavy,” he said.

That early example of service and love continues to shape him as a husband and father.

Whaley’s academic journey has also come with challenges. He has balanced coursework while caring for ill family members and navigating personal loss, yet he has continued to perform at a high level. He credits his flexibility, work ethic and the understanding of his professors for helping him succeed.

“There were moments when quitting felt easier and more reasonable than pushing through,” he said. “Some days I was physically and mentally drained, yet the work still had to be done.”

A Christian, Whaley credits his faith for his strength and purpose.

“God didn’t just give me faith; He gave me the ability and knowledge to use it to change lives,” he said.

He strives to share his faith through his personal story and hopes others will see what is possible through their own belief.

After college, Whaley hopes to start a business that allows him to continue helping veterans and others.

“I don’t want to be a CEO making $3 million a year and not have the ability to help others,” he said.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Whaley refuses to let them define him. Instead, he focuses on answering what he believes is his calling.

“My story is not one of perfection, but of persistence,” he said.