A fallen veteran has left behind a legacy to those who have been touched by his life and service.
A fallen veteran has left behind a legacy to those who have been touched by his life and service.
Erick FosterErick Foster's name and heart continues to thrive after he was killed by an insurgent fire in August 2007 through a recently established non-profit organization that reaches out to local veterans.
Foster was just 29 years old when he died in Iraq, but a close friend made it his mission to shine his compassion for others through Team Foster.
"Erick was a big part of who I was and who I became. I fell in love with the military and the army," Nick Liermann, CEO and Founder of Team Foster, said.
Liermann served active duty as a captain in the U.S. Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom and currently serves as a JAG officer in the U.S. Army Reserve.
Foster and Liermann buddied up back in college and that's where the dedication for the United States military was sparked.
"Erick was a big part in teaching me and showing me that you can get out of the military whatever you put in -- he always gave it 100 percent," Liermann said.
The non-profit organization -- formed in 2015 -- is based out of Philadelphia and reaches veterans throughout South Jersey.
In honor of Foster, the organization is working to pair service dogs with tri-state area veterans who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury through a partnership with Alpha Bravo Canine.
"We wanted to work with someone on a much more local scale to make a bigger difference. It's a huge impact because the VA doesn't cover service dogs. Hopefully we can make a visible impact for everyone to see," Liermann said.
Alpha Bravo Canine trains service dogs for those suffering from PTSD. Team Foster is sponsoring two puppies who just came home by paying for the purchase, veterinary bills, specialized training, and other necessities.
With help from friends and family, Liermann was able to put together the organization and kick off the first Foster 100 fundraiser in 2014.
"I was blown away by it and the response we got. We got such positive feedback after the fact that we decided to formalize and we became incorporated in 2015," Liermann added.
The Foster 100 is a 100-mile bike ride stretching all the way from Philadelphia through South Jersey and ending in Cape May.
Join to help those who have served for us. Join to improve yourself. Join to be a part of... https://t.co/AVBmkXMrin
-- Team Foster (@Foster_Ride) January 2, 2016
Now, the organization is planning for the third annual ride come September 17.
Erick's sister, Abby Ellis, lives out in Indianapolis with her husband, and said the efforts by Liermann and the organization are amazing.
"We're honored that Erick has touched Nick's life so greatly and hat he's using that to touch others'. He had given so much of himself leading his troop the eight years he was in the army," Ellis said.
"We found out over the years that he's impacted many people's lives. Others have seen that and notice it," Ellis continued.
Ellis reflected on her brother's love for the Army, tracing back to when he was a little boy.
"When he was very little that was always his passion. He always wanted to do that there wasn't any questions about it. He was super hardworking and such a loving guy. He was fun-loving too -- always had a goofy smile and tried to be lighthearted in everything."
"Nick has really done a great job. We hope to make it out there this year. It's a great cause and he's done a fantastic job with it. It's nice to see how Erick has touched those around him," Ellis added.
Next month, the organization will also be holding a fundraiser with a puppy kissing booth to meet the new service puppies in Philly.
For more information on Team Foster or to get involved, visit www.teamfoster.org.
Brittany Wehner may be reached at bwehner@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @brittanymwehner. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.