Mick Stocum

A simple puzzle became the beginning of something much bigger for retired U.S. Marine Mick Stocum.

Mick is the founder of Pieces of Honor, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating veteran isolation through personal connection, wellness checks, games, puzzles and conversation.

The idea began with a veteran named Elmer who had become deeply isolated after losing his wife. Mick started spending more time with him, often working on puzzles together. As they sat across from one another, Elmer began opening up.

“The puzzle isn’t really the point,” Mick says. “The conversation that happens over the puzzle is.”

That experience made Mick realize there were other veterans throughout the community sitting behind closed doors with no one checking on them.

Through Pieces of Honor, Mick visits veterans, connects them with resources and, most importantly, listens. The organization also works to preserve veterans’ experiences through its Veteran Story Project.

“I want people to see the veterans,” he says. “You don’t need to start a nonprofit. Knock on a door. Bring a cup of coffee. Sit down. Listen.”

Sometimes the most meaningful thing anyone can give another person is simply their time.