Ten Years Ago, Ten Years Later
'Stand To: Change The Narrative Inc.' is an IRS Approved 501(c)(3)
Mission Statement: ‘Stand To: Change The Narrative Inc.’ is a nonprofit organization made up of diverse veterans and civilians providing our education and real-world experiences standing together working to change the narrative through unique projects and global initiatives.
Challenging the common narrative while clearing a new path for positive and educational community growth.
The Pink Mist Poet
Justin Eggen is a national award winning poet and Marine combat veteran. He stopped by the smoke pit to talk about his new book, Adahy. He also reflects on the real life inspirations behind his art and how it helped him cope with his experiences in combat.
'Adahy' 1st Edition Author Signed Paperback
Literature Collection
The Palm Beach Post Interview w/ Justin Eggen (2017)
'Dead Reckoning Collective' Interview w/ Justin Eggen (2018)
Listen NowThe Award-Winning Doc “More Than Our War” (2018)
'We Are The Mighty: Mandatory Fun Podcast' Interview w/ Justin Eggen (2019)
Combat poetry reveals what life is like on the Afghan front lines. In this episode of Mandatory Fun, We Are The Mighty’s Blake Stilwell talks to Justin Eggen on what it was like to write poetry as a Marine Corps combat veteran — and why every U.S. troop needs some creative outlet for thoughts and feelings like his.
CreatiVets Sits Down w/ Justin Eggen (2020)
'I Got Your 6 Podcast' Interview w/ Justin Eggen (2020)
In this episode, Brian talks with award-winning Marine Poet Veteran Justin Eggen. They discuss life prior to the Marines, during Justin's Active Duty, and life after the Marines.
The Sun Rises in Helmand: An award winning book of war poetry
June 25th, 2020
Helmand, Afghanistan was one of the bloodiest provinces of Operation Enduring Freedom. Improvised explosive devices were rampant, robbing young Marines of life and limb. In particular, the cities of Sangin and Marjah were viciously brutal. If you are unfamiliar with those battles, they highlight the very definition of American Grit. “Dreadful sights are guaranteed,” says Justin T. Eggen, the former Marine who spent time in both these hell holes. Justin saw the reality of war, and it changed his life forever.
'Former Action Guys Podcast' w/ Justin Eggen (2021)
Veteran Spotlight: Justin Thomas Eggen
June 12th, 2021
The warrior poet is a man of both letters and steel. He is as natural in combat as he is a dinner party in some Manhattan high rise. Whether through intensive training or birth, warrior poets seek to embody the perfect balance between the physical, spiritual, and intellectual being.
American Grit- Adahy: Award Winning Marine Author's New Book
June 24, 2021
Eggen told us he had been working on the story for quite a while. Although, he feels the wait will be worth it, and is excited for people to read Adahy.
Eggen also hinted at the appearance of both better known, and lesser known, historical figures. Furthermore, that military enthusiasts would get a real treat with some notable locations, and characters, from martial history.
WLRN South Florida
August 27th, 2021
'Graveyard Of Empires': U.S. Vet Reflects On Afghanistan Through Poetry by Leslie Ovalle
Book Reviews for Outside The Wire Vol.1 & 2 (OTWC), The Art of Warrior Poetry (TAOWP), & Adahy.
TAOWP-
"This book is an absolute must read for anyone who enjoys poetry. Eggen's straightforward approach to poetry is welcoming to any reader, regardless of their previous interest in the genre. The Art of Warrior Poetry is an amazing reflection of the author's experience in war. Eggen's experiences bleed through the pages and it quickly becomes clear that each poem is genuine with zero embellishments. The Art of Warrior Poetry is truly remarkable and sometimes uncomfortable due to its level of honesty. It is a wonderful collection of poetry and a unique take on modern warfare." - Mac on TAOWP @pipesandpages
"Outstanding collection of poetry from a brother Marine. As an 03 of a lesser conflict, Justin's book is the real deal, an essential document of the GWOT, and an extremely personal document of the human cost of that conflict. Highly recommended!" - Will J. on TAOWP
OTWC-
"The journey is told through poems and includes some stories about real life daily interactions with the writer’s fellow troops. The poems are downright scary interpretations of what hell this young man must of went through. The writing is sharp and very descriptive and this is one of those rare books that takes the reader into the mind and life of an everyday person, who became a warrior." - Dave B. on OTWC Vol.1
"This collection of poetry is the most accurate and well written portrayal of the mind, memories, and experiences of a combat veteran I’ve experienced. The poems lay out details and capture thoughts immediately recognized and appreciated by a combat veteran. Walk through the poppy fields and tip toe down dusty trails with the turn of each page." - J.M. on OTWC Vol.2
"I’ve built my personal library on combat memoirs ranging from the Civil War to Afghanistan. Nothing in my collection rivals the style Justin portrays in his work. His poetry is addicting as each poem puts you in the mind of the author while he was a combat Marine fighting in OEF. He spills his memories into his work, which entices the reader to keep turning the page. Not only is his work absolutely relatable for those who have served, I’d ask any citizen interested in war/ the mindset of a combat troop, to give this book a chance. Poetry has a new meaning to me after read Outside the Wire Volume II." - Chris C. on OTWC Vol.2
ADAHY-
"A book you just don’t want to end! I started reading this and immediately felt immersed in the story. The characters come to life as the story unfolds and you feel as if you have traveled to this time period. I read all the Outlander Series and hundreds of historical novels. Justin Eggen has a real talent with his writing and there is never a dull moment. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!" - Mary on ADAHY
"What can I say without giving any information away. Justin killed it with this beautiful story of Adahy. Immerse yourself in this beautifully written book on the journey of Adahy. Follow along as Justin painted this gorgeous world with real life people and places from 1776. But he also put his mind blowing twist to it. I highly encourage everyone to pick up a copy so I can discuss it with you. I applaud Justin on this story and I can not wait to read what he has in store for Adahy in the coming series!" - Ian on ADAHY
"Adahy is so well written and absolutely captivating! I had actually lost interest in reading for the last few years and had picked up this book just out of curiosity... I'm so glad I did! I absolutely love this book and found myself wishing it would never end! I feel I know all of the characters in the book and see their surroundings as I read!
Kudos Justin! Thank you for sharing your writings with me! Grab a copy for yourself, you will definitely not regret it!" - Julie on ADAHY
"Challenging the common narrative while clearing a new path for positive and educational community growth." - Justin Eggen
