In this powerful episode of the North Idaho Experience podcast, we sit down with Tim to talk about life before, during, and after combat. His journey includes seven deployments, a near-fatal IED explosion, traumatic injuries, and a spiral into depression, pain, and addiction. But it doesn’t end there. In fact, that’s where the comeback begins.

From the Battlefield to the Backwoods of North Idaho

Tim spent 18 years in the military. After years of high-level training and real-world missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, an IED ended his frontline career. Thrown into the frame of his vehicle during the blast, he woke up in a hospital in Germany with a shattered collarbone, spinal cord damage, lung disease, and traumatic brain injury. But the worst injury? Losing his purpose.

Returning stateside, he shifted to instructing survival skills to future military personnel. But internally, he was unraveling. His marriage had ended. His lungs were deteriorating. And after being medically discharged two years short of retirement, he lost both his career identity and benefits—spiraling into depression, alcohol abuse, and isolation.

Like many veterans, Tim learned the hard way that the war doesn’t always end when you come home.

A Daughter’s Words That Changed Everything

At his lowest, Tim planned to end his life. Sitting in a truck after spending time with his young daughter, she said something that pierced through the darkness:
“Daddy, I want you to go to the gym again. I miss you.”

That moment was a divine interruption. Tim checked himself into an inpatient program in Edmonds, Washington, where he spent 60 days working through the trauma. From there, he committed to sobriety, mental health, and rediscovering a purpose greater than pain.

Finding Healing Through Fitness + Camaraderie

Enter CrossFit. Though initially turned away by a few gyms due to his injuries, Tim eventually found a home at Black Goat Fitness in Post Falls. The gym embraced him, encouraged him to go at his own pace, and gave him something he hadn’t felt in years: community.

He didn’t just start showing up—he started showing others what’s possible. With coaching, discipline, and relentless effort, he went from being unable to walk without assistance to competing on the worldwide CrossFit adaptive stage, placing 10th globally in his division.

Today, Tim trains not just for himself, but to inspire others. Whether it’s a 45-pound ruck through North Idaho trails or coaching someone through their first gym session, his story is now a tool for healing.

Ruck to Rise: A New Mission for Veterans

In addition to training, Tim is launching a nonprofit: Ruck to Rise, a movement dedicated to helping veterans and first responders get the mental health and physical support they need. The organization will raise funds for gym memberships, counseling services, and community events—focusing on veteran recovery through community.

Through regular ruck marches in Post Falls and beyond, Tim and his team are creating low-barrier entry points for vets who need connection. There’s no pressure to talk—just walk. But eventually, conversations happen. Trust builds. Healing begins.

“Sometimes you don’t need a doctor. You need a dude who’s been there.” — Tim Henry

Why This Story Matters to North Idaho

North Idaho has long been a home for conservative values, freedom lovers, and veterans looking for a fresh start. Tim’s story is a raw, real testament to the grit, faith, and fellowship that thrives in this region.

It also reveals a deeper truth: Veterans don’t need to be fixed. They need to be valued. That happens through authentic connection, shared struggle, and purpose.

Whether it’s picking up a ruck, picking up a phone, or picking up the pieces—Tim shows us what it means to survive the worst, and rise anyway.

How You Can Help or Get Involved

• Join a Ruck: Follow Tim on Instagram @TimHenry1947 for updates on community ruck events.
  
  
• Support Ruck to Rise: Tim’s nonprofit is in the works—stay tuned for fundraisers, merchandise, and volunteer opportunities.
  
  
• Spread the Word: Share this post, the podcast, or Tim’s Instagram to help others who may need a reminder: they’re not alone.