LOS ANGELES — Growing up, Joe Klaunberg always knew he was a storyteller, but the world of filmmaking and acting only became part of his life after four years of service in the Marine Corps.

Film became an outlet that allowed him to express his emotions. At 18, Klaunberg enlisted to serve his country, an experience he cherishes as some of the finest years of his life, a badge of honor he’ll carry with him forever, he said.

But during those years of service, his mental health took a hit, making the challenges he already faced before joining the Marine Corps even tougher.