Vietnam War Veteran Bradford Stephens was born in Amsterdam and moved to the United States when he was five years old. His family of eight settled in Clinton, Massachusetts. Brad’s family had a long history of military service, including his two older brothers and his father who served in the Korean War. He always felt that joining the military one day would not be an option, but his opinion changed one day shortly after graduating high school. Right after receiving his high school diploma, two recruiters approached Brad and asked if he would be interested in joining the Army. At the time, the country was at war with Vietnam, and Brad felt it was his duty to serve, saying “it wasn’t even a thought, I had to join”.

In Brad’s video interview, he was visibly emotional recounting his experience in the Vietnam War. He spoke highly about the friends who served alongside him, and the impact they had on him. “It’s hard to describe the bond I had with them. If I had to do it again, I’d want the same people with me. The bond I had with those guys is unbelievable.”

Since moving into the Residences at Brighton Marine in Brighton, MA, Brad can’t say enough wonderful things about his new living situation and how much he’s enjoyed it. “It’s truly a blessing. I’m a grateful man and they give us everything we need here. I’m happy about everything. I love where I’m at and the people are great here.”

Brad is one of 25 eligible Veteran that was provided affordable and permanent housing through a program spearheaded by the BHA in partnership with Brighton Marine, Boston Veteran’ Services, VA Boston Healthcare, and Soldier On. Through a program called HUD-VASH - a collaborative program between the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing - Veteran like Brad will also receive crucial support services including case management, primary healthcare, mental healthcare and, if needed, substance abuse counseling.

“I would recommend this program to anyone that is capable of being here,” Brad added.