What is the Battle Buddy program?

The Battle Buddy program is a peer support initiative run by the Massachusetts non-profit Frost Call, which connects veterans with each other to help with the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.

How did Kris Ferrell benefit from the Battle Buddy program?

Kris Ferrell, who was living in a shelter, met his best friend J.R. Moock through the Battle Buddy program. Moock's support was crucial in helping Ferrell find stable housing, enroll in UMass-Boston, and consider a career in the music industry.

What role did gaming play in the Battle Buddy program?

Frost Call bases much of its programming around gaming, using it as an icebreaker to get younger veterans to socialize and connect with each other.

Home / Lifestyle / Veteran Finds Lifelong Friendship Through Battle Buddy Program

Veteran Finds Lifelong Friendship Through Battle Buddy Program

11 Nov

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Summary

Kris Ferrell met J.R. Moock through the Battle Buddy program
Moock helped Ferrell transition from living in a shelter to stable housing
Ferrell is now studying at UMass-Boston and considering a music career

Veteran Finds Lifelong Friendship Through Battle Buddy Program

As the nation commemorates Veterans Day 2025, the story of Kris Ferrell and J.R. Moock highlights the profound impact that peer support can have on veterans struggling to reintegrate into civilian life.

Ferrell, who was living in a shelter when he first met Moock through the Battle Buddy program, explains that he needed "long-term friends" and "long-term networking" to successfully transition out of the shelter. The Battle Buddy program, run by the Massachusetts non-profit Frost Call, aims to provide that crucial connection for veterans.

Moock, a U.S. Army veteran who had overcome his own post-service challenges, understood Ferrell's situation and became a steadfast friend and motivator. "He was one of the first friends I made here, and ever since I've known him, he's been on my side," says Ferrell.