Overview

Roger Helle was born in Toledo, Ohio. Immediately after graduating high school, he and his twin brother joined the Marine Corps, and Roger served three tours of duty in Vietnam. He earned three Purple Heart medals and the Bronze Star (with Combat V), among other awards, for his physical endurance; however, deep emotional wounds persisted, eventually threatening his marriage and career as a criminal investigator. Finally, in 1974, coming to the end of himself, Roger cried out for the salvation that only Jesus Christ could bring, and, working from the inside out, God's healing power began to transform his life and relationships. At the same time, his wife Shirley came to saving faith, and together they have spent 40 years serving young people through Teen Challenge. Roger has also returned to bring the love of Christ and humanitarian aid to Vietnam on 20 separate trips, authored several books, and addressed groups nationwide, ranging from churches and schools to the Pentagon and the National War College.