The Friesen Family

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Shawn Friesen

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Shawn Friesen has always felt a strong sense of pride for his country, which led him to enlist in the Marines in 2003 after high school graduation.

Friesen was deployed to the Middle East a total of five times during his more than 12 years of service. While leading a team of 25 Marines in Iraq in 2010, Friesen was in an armored vehicle that struck six IEDs. Following the blasts, Friesen was sweeping for additional explosives when a nearby vehicle was struck, leaving him severely wounded. Having suffered multiple concussions, Friesen was evacuated by air to a hospital in Afghanistan. Despite his injuries, Friesen continued serving until he completed his service in 2016.

After being exposed to many IED blasts, Friesen suffers from PTSD and traumatic brain injury (TBI) causing confusion, anxiety, equilibrium problems and more.

He received many accolades including Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals with Combat V, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, two Combat Action Ribbons and many more.

After his honorable discharge, Friesen obtained his commercial driver’s license and works evening hours, which helps his PTSD. He and his wife, Rebecca, currently live in League City, Texas, with their three children. 

Thanks to Tilson Custom Home Builders along with sponsors Greater Houston Builders Association, Jan Duncan and Operation FINALLY HOME, we are excited to provide the Friesen family with a custom-built, mortgage-free home in League City.