Meet Jake

Jake Norotsky grew up in a small Pennsylvania town, the son of a Vietnam veteran and pastor. His life changed forever when his father died by suicide while Jake was in high school, pushing him toward a life of service. Joining the Army, he became a Blackhawk crew chief, flying nearly 1,000 combat hours in Iraq. His aircraft was hit dozens of times, and the constant danger took a toll on his body and mind.

After returning home, Jake faced a new battle — post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and his own fight with suicidal ideation. His turning point came when his wife signed him up for a Wounded Warrior Project® Project Odyssey®, where he realized he wasn’t broken, and he wasn’t alone.

Having lost many friends to suicide, Jake now sees his mission clearly: to serve again by sharing his story. Today, he travels the country, using his journey from combat to hope to inspire his fellow warriors to reach out, find help, and believe that healing is possible. His message is simple but powerful: “You are not alone.”

More about Jake

Inspirational Insights

Below are some of the many topics on which Jake can speak.

The Healing Power of Stories

The Leadership Mindset

 

Finding your Purpose

Mental Health and Emotional Resilience

 

Suicide Prevention and Awareness

Overcoming Adversity

Where He’s Spoken

Jake has spoken at a variety of events — from casual community gatherings to galas, conferences, meetings, and just about everything in between.

Below are some of the groups who have heard Jake’s message:

  • Amarillo Fire Department
  • Auburn University
  • Boston University
  • BP
  • CNN
  • Farmers Insurance
  • Fort Riley
  • Fox News
  • Gatlinburg All-American Bowl
  • Generations Church
  • Hitachi
  • Nativity Catholic School
  • Opelika Fire Department
  • Parker’s Kitchen
  • Rytech Restoration
  • Southwire

Here’s What People Are Saying

Hear from attendees who felt energized, inspired, and motivated by Jake.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“Jacob Norotsky communicated a profound message of hope, courage and resiliency. Sharing his story of service and sacrifice to help raise awareness for the needs of our warriors and families and the level of support received was overwhelming.”

Department of Veterans Affairs

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“Hearing about your journey and the challenges you've faced not only educated us but also motivated us to appreciate our own experiences and to support one another. Your insights into teamwork, determination, and the importance of community resonated deeply with us.”

Carlisle

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“Mr. Norotsky's words will remain with attendees for a long time. I spoke with guests as they were leaving and their feedback was universally positive. Some left visibly affected by Jacob's story, including one woman with tears in her eyes who spoke to me about her appreciation of Jacob's message and the mission of WWP.”

Whitehall Public Library

See Jake in Action

Experience the genuine voice and heartfelt impact Jake brings to every conversation and engagement.

Quote_Wounded Warrior Jake Norotsky No Background

“Your trauma is your training. Use what you’ve been through in life to help others.”

Wounded Warrior
Jake Norotsky

Making Headlines

Learn more about Jake Norotsky and how he helps raise awareness for the needs of injured veterans and their families.

One Post-9/11 Veteran’s Mission to Save Lives from Veteran Suicide, Including His Own

Wounded warrior Jake Norotsky smiles, standing on a shiny hardwood basketball court while speaking to a school.

Warrior Says Program Offers Needed Mental Health, Career Counseling and Long-term Rehabilitative Care

Wounded warrior Jake Norotsky climbs out of a small propeller airplane cockpit.

Veteran Gives Wings to Aspiring Pilots, Charts New Mission