In honor of Veterans Day, we’re sharing the stories of some of the U.S. military veterans who call Plymouth home. Read about other Plymouth veterans: George (here); Sam (here); and Bruce (here).

Joseph served in the Navy from 1965 to 1967.

He was a Boatswain’s mate in Charleston, South Carolina, and his favorite memories from his time in the Navy were of overseas travel. He fondly recalls visiting Italy, Spain, and Turkey, among many other places. When he found himself experiencing homelessness later in life, the Veterans Administration helped him find a home with Plymouth. Since then, Joseph has settled into life with his new community. “I have my own apartment and I don’t have to worry about where I’m going to sleep at night,” he said.

When asked what home at Plymouth means to him, he summed it up in one word: “Happiness.”

Did you know that veteran homelessness has decreased by 34,000 people nationally since 2010? National efforts to end veteran homelessness, such as the “Joining Forces Initiative,” supported cross-sector collaboration that has had marked results. In King County, veteran homelessness continues to decline in spite of overall increases in homelessness. As one of the largest providers of housing for veterans in King County, Plymouth is proud to be part of this successful effort.