Published Jun 30, 2026, 3:00 AM EDT
Veterans learn Brazilian jiu-jitsu from world-class instructors on the deck of USS New Jersey.
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Published Jun 30, 2026, 3:00 AM EDT
Veterans struggling with anxiety often lack the ability to focus and complete tasks in a timely manner. Brazilian jiu-jitsu requires intense focus and mental stability to conquer an opponent. Veterans from across the country had a rare opportunity to learn jiu-jitsu from some of the masters of the sport on the deck of the USS New Jersey June 19–20, part of the We Defy Foundation’s Warships Seminar Series at the Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial in Camden, New Jersey. The event, sponsored by USAA and Face the Fight, an organization founded by USAA, Reach Resilience and the Humana Foundation, was created to promote veteran suicide awareness and break down stigmas surrounding suicide and depression in the veteran community. Event organizers touted the physical and mental benefits of Jiu-Jitsu and its ability to provide a coping and healing aspect to veterans facing behavioral health issues and disabilities. “Really, the general reaction is gratitude,” Kevin Linderman, executive director of We Defy Foundation, told Military.com. “For the athletes, it’s gratitude for the opportunity to take back control over their lives through Jiu-Jitsu. And for the instructors, it's gratitude to be involved with such an important cause.”
