United States Army Sergeant First Class Carlos Torres Jr. has dedicated his life to serving his country, his family, and his community. Born with a passion for sports and adventure, Torres had an enjoyable childhood filled with baseball, visits to amusement parks and the zoo, and a commitment to excelling in school. Raised in a supportive environment, he aspired to become a professional baseball player or find a career tied to the world of sports.
Torres’s path in life was shaped by the influence of his father, a veteran who inspired him to pursue a career in the military. In 1996, Torres joined the United States Army, seeking not only college benefits but also the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes from being part of a team. Over the years, he embraced his role in the Army, finding fulfillment in serving the nation and being part of something greater than himself.
During his military career, Torres achieved notable milestones. He was honored with the Humanitarian Service Medal for his role in aiding communities during the Hurricane Sandy disaster. Additionally, his leadership and dedication earned him a position as a recruiter, where he helped shape the future of the Army by inspiring others to serve.
Throughout his journey, Torres has been profoundly shaped by the steadfast support of two incredible women: his mother and his wife, both pillars of strength. His mother, with her wisdom and unwavering belief in him, was there from the beginning. His wife, meanwhile, is a constant source of strength and stability and the glue that holds everything together.
Torres’s life took a challenging turn during his deployment to Afghanistan, where he was injured in combat action. Mortar blasts near his location caused significant injuries, including PTSD, a lower lumbar injury, cervical neck strain, Traumatic Brain Injury, blurred vision, and peripheral neuropathy in all extremities. Despite these hardships, Torres has shown remarkable resilience and courage, dedicating himself to his recovery and to supporting his family.
Today, Torres finds joy and purpose in watching his son excel on the high school basketball court, cheering him on as he pursues his dreams. Thanks to the support of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Torres and his family will soon have a more accessible home, easing the physical and financial burdens of daily life. This gift will allow Torres to focus on what matters most—living with integrity, helping others, and being a devoted father and husband.
United States Army Sergeant First Class Carlos Torres Jr. exemplifies strength, perseverance, and a deep commitment to those around him. His journey stands as a testament to the power of resilience and the unwavering love he has for his family and country.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided United States Army Sergeant First Class Carlos Torres Jr. with a mortgage-free smart home through the Smart Home Program.