January 2, 2024

Captain Phil Palmer is our newest Veteran of the Week!

When asked about his greatest inspiration in life, Captain Phil Palmer dedicated that title to his grandfather, a Vietnam Marine Corps Veteran, as well as his father. Throughout his early life, he watched both men demonstrate high levels of resilience and strength. From these motivating figures, Phil gained an unwavering passion for serving his country and sacrificing for those he cares about. As a decorated Marine Corps Veteran himself, Palmer also found himself positively influenced by his MiTT (Combat Advisor), who helped shape him into the individual he is today. Capt. Palmer has carried his love for helping others throughout his career, and is now the proud Founder, President, and Executive Director of WarriorWOD.

Having graduated from The Citadel in 2005 and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps, Capt. Palmer's military career took him to serve in pivotal roles, including serving as a Combat Advisor and Operations Officer in Iraq, Instructor and Staff Platoon Commander at The Basic School, Operations Officers for the Marine Corps Martial Arts Center of Excellence, and finally an Operations Officers for the Security Force Assistance Program at the Training & Education Command (TECOM).

His commendable service over the years earned him numerous awards, such as the Purple Heart and Army Commendation with Valor, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor, among many other recognitions. Beyond his decorated military career, Palmer faced challenges after being diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) and a traumatic brain injury (TBI) upon his honorable discharge in 2013. Fortunately, he discovered a source of healing and strength in physical fitness and nutrition. Realizing that many Veterans struggled with similar invisible wounds, Palmer established WarriorWOD in June 2021.

WarriorWOD emphasizes exercise and nutrition as crucial prescriptions for Veterans' recovery from PTS.  With the addressing the root cause, Post Traumatic Stress, WarriorWOD also is instrumental in reducing Veteran suicide and deaths from substance abuse.  Further, the WarriorWOD program’s by-products are reducing Veteran obesity, occupational and social dysfunction, and preventing homelessness. Under Capt. Palmer's leadership, WarriorWOD has made a measurable impact, aiding over 500 Veterans with a notable 29% reduction in PTS symptoms intensity. His holistic approach has also fostered improvements in Veterans' mental health, physical well-being, and social integration. WarriorWOD is also a part of the South Carolina Veteran Coalition, a network of Veteran resources created by SCDVA.

WarriorWOD, under Palmer's motivational leadership, has positively impacted hundreds of Veterans' lives since its founding. The program prioritizes exercise, nutrition, and mentorship as prescriptions for veterans' recovery from PTS, providing hope for those who have served our nation. Phil’s extraordinary journey of service and compassion continues to empower and uplift, creating lasting change in the lives of our nation's heroes through the transformative power of WarriorWOD.

Capt. Palmer's prior role as the co-chair of the Lowcountry Veterans Engagement Team further highlights his commitment to coalition building and Veteran advocacy. His efforts have not only supported individual Veterans but have also enhanced the broader community's understanding and support of Veterans' needs. Palmer's vision and dedication to Veterans has earned him accolades, including being a Regional Jefferson Award recipient. Additionally, his passion for physical fitness led him to embark on an astounding 4,000 skydives, previously serving as his therapy and escape.

In addition to his role at WarriorWOD, Phil excels in his career as the Director of Sales for Liquid Web, a global IT hosting company. His commitment to empowering clients' growth and success reflects his unwavering dedication to excellence. Outside of his remarkable work, Palmer cherishes the role of a devoted father to his daughter Sophie and a loving husband to his wife, Tessa. As a true fitness enthusiast, he dedicates time daily to exercise, aligning with WarriorWOD's mission.

January 23, 2024

Commander Geoff Weber is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Geoff Weber departed the private sector in response to the September 11th attacks on America. He earned a commission in the United States Navy from Officer Candidate School at Pensacola, Florida. After graduating from the Naval Intelligence Officer Basic Course (NIOBC), Ensign Weber went to sea with the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72). He served as the Carrier Intelligence Center (CVIC) Division Officer and participated in Operation Unified Assistance, providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief on the ground in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. While attached to the Lincoln, Lieutenant Junior Grade Weber was a member of the All-Navy Marathon and Cross Country Teams, broke a treadmill World Record, and was named the 2005 Navy Athlete of the Year.
  
Lieutenant Weber then served as the Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) Department Head at SEAL Team EIGHT at Little Creek, Virginia. He deployed to Baghdad, Iraq as the Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Task Group Intelligence Officer (N2) supporting security to the democratically-elected Government of Iraq officials. LT Weber also served as the NSW Liaison Officer (LNO) to the Office of Regional Affairs, deployed to Fallujah to establish an intelligence fusion and targeting cell for a Joint Task Force, and directly contributed to security of Al Anbar province during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
  
LT Weber next served as an instructor at the Navy & Marine Corps Intelligence Training Center (NMITC). He was the Expeditionary Warfare Intelligence “C” School Division Officer responsible for training over 500 officers and enlisted to deploy with NSW and the newly-established Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). LT Weber next reported to the Maritime Civil Affairs and Security Training (MCAST) Command where he deployed to Operation Enduring Freedom-Trans Sahel as the Civil Affairs Planner to NSW on the African continent.

In 2013, Lieutenant Commander Weber reported to the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) to train as a Russian linguist and attaché. After graduating from the Joint Military Attaché School (JMAS) in April 2014, LCDR Weber reported to Defense Attaché Office (DAO) at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, Russia and served as the Assistant American Legation U.S. Naval Attaché. Serving at the DAO during one of the most contentious times in the U.S. relationship with the Russian Federation, LCDR Weber leveraged the Prevention of Incidents On and Over the Highs Seas (INCSEA) agreement to maintain strong lines of communication with the Russian Ministry of Defense and used his diplomatic skills to expand and improve critical reporting to strategic decision makers in Washington. The Directorate of Operations named LCDR Weber as the Field Grade Officer of the Quarter in 2015.

In 2016, LCDR Weber reported to the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island where he earned a Masters of Arts Degree in Defense and Strategic Studies. He was chosen as one of six US officers to serve in International Programs and was selected to conduct critical research for the Russian Maritime Studies Institute (RMSI). In 2017, he reported to the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) and deployed as the first LNO to Commander Naval Forces Korea (CNFK) during a time of heightened security concerns on the Peninsula. Later in 2017, he reported to the Navy's Office of Legislative Affairs (OLA) and served as the Defense Fellow in the Office of US Senator Tammy Baldwin. His essay, “Data Rich and Information Poor- the Adversary of Lethality”, was published in Strategy Bridge. In 2018, LCDR Weber reported to DIA as support to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. While there, LCDR Weber promoted to Commander, served as the Senior Strategist in the Office of Data Strategy & Innovation at the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), and was awarded an Intelligence Community Galileo finalist for his writing on “Disrupting a Monoculture by Recruiting Autistic Talent.”

Commander Weber is a qualified Information Warfare Officer, an Airborne Parachutist, and a Defense Strategic Debriefer. His personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon, and a Presidential Unit Citation. He has been married to Nancy Karulski of Chicago, Illinois for over 30 years. They have three children. Now retired, Commander Weber founded a technology startup, www.heirloom.cloud, that actively recruits military Veterans to protect the world’s photos, videos, and other cherished memories. Through his organization, he has provided three to six months of training to 24 transitioning service members through SkillBridge internships and has employed some of those same Veterans who have completed the program.

January 30, 2024

Master Sergeant Michael Sudik is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Master Sergeant Michael R Sudik is from Winburne, Pennsylvania. He enlisted in the United States Air Force, at the age of 17 in 1978 and served 22 years as an aircraft Weapons Mechanic/Armament Systems Specialist on several airframes including F-111, F-4, F-16, F-15, OV-10 and OA-37. With assignments throughout PACAF, USAFE, TAC, CENTCOM and ACC. Retiring in 2000 from Langley AFB VA as Production Superintendent for the 94thFighter Squadron.

During his service, MSgt Sudik deployed in support of several campaigns to include Southwest Asia, Asia and Eastern Europe. His military decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Commendation Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, National Defense and the Korea Defense Medal.

After retiring from the USAF, MSgt Sudik's civilian service was spent in leadership positions at manufacturing plants in the Greenwood area and as a Janitorial Operations Manager, semi retiring in 2023 to become a caregiver for his wife, of 32 years. He has since become a Veterans Advocate and the Veterans Treatment Court Manager for the SC 8th Circuit Solicitor. Sudik is the Commander of VFW Post 8131, Active member of American legion Post 20, Palmetto Pathfinder and serves on the Greenwood Veterans Coalition.

Sudik retired to Greenwood SC in 2000. He and his wife Lema are parents to three children and seven grandchildren. They are active participants in the VFW, VFWA, American Legion, Palmetto Upstate Veterans Coalition and Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. They have remained residents of Greenwood, SC for the past 23 years. Sudik is also an active Palmetto Pathfinder with the South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs, where he works as a mentor to assist Veterans transitioning out of the military.

You can watch a profile story regarding his work with Veterans in his community HERE.

February 5, 2024

Captain Charles Lutz is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Charles H. Lutz was commissioned as an Army Intelligence Officer through the ROTC program at the Pennsylvania State University in 1967. After Infantry Officer Basic training at Ft. Benning, Georgia, and Intelligence Staff Officer training at Ft. Holabird, Maryland, he was sent to Vietnam. Initially assigned as an Intelligence Officer in Operation Hurricane to prepare Saigon for a second Tet Offensive, when that possibility dimmed the unit was disbanded and he was reassigned as the Assistant S-4 / Property Book Office at the 519th Military Intelligence Support Battalion on the outskirts of Saigon. Not satisfied with the prospect of spending the war as a “Saigon Warrior,” he volunteered his way out to the field.

CPT Lutz was reassigned to MACV’s 87th Advisory Detachment at Xuan Loc but, disappointingly, found himself in another 9 to 5 office job, albeit on the compound of the 18th Infantry Division of the Army of Vietnam. By sheer persistence, he finally found his way into combat as the intelligence advisor directing “Fire Fly” missions, nighttime helicopter assaults on enemy positions, for which he earned the Bronze Star Medal.

As much as he enjoyed military life, when CPT Lutz returned stateside the war was winding down, peace talks were underway, with a reduction in force inevitable. He knew reserve officers, like himself, would be the first to go. So, he decided to follow his childhood dream of becoming a law enforcement officer. But he took with him to his new career the self-confidence and leadership abilities he had gained from his military service, a love of foreign adventure, as well as his knowledge of military operations.

CPT Lutz began his law enforcement career with the Drug Enforcement Administration in 1970 and learned his trade in Philadelphia. Due to his undercover work, his reserve duty obligation was waived and he was placed in the Inactive Reserve. Nevertheless, years later, he graduated from the Intelligence Career School at Ft. Huachuca, Arizona, was promoted to Captain, and returned to the inactive reserve.

When first eligible to work overseas, CPT Lutz applied for Thailand from where the majority of heroin found in America was originating. There, among other award-winning cases, he helped to dismantle a group of retired U.S. military non-commissioned officers responsible for shipping tons of heroin to the United States, some reportedly in the coffins of U.S. servicemen killed in Vietnam upon which the 2010 movie American Gangster was based, and a case for which he received the Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service.

CPT Lutz spent two years with responsibility for most of DEA’s operations in the Middle East. Based in Cairo, several times he assisted the U.S. Naval Investigative Service by coordinating Egyptian police actions to limit sales of illegal drugs to sailors on port calls to Alexandria.

After assignments in DEA Headquarters and Reno, Nevada, in 1986 Lutz was reassigned to South Florida during the Cocaine Cowboy era. From Miami, he managed DEA’s criminal investigations in The Bahamas, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, and established new offices in Haiti and Barbados. He also coordinated helicopter-borne air and sea cocaine and marijuana interdiction operations in the Caribbean between the DEA, U.S. Customs, host-nation law enforcement authorities, and supporting U.S. military forces. After four years he was transferred to DEA Headquarters to take over DEA’s raids on clandestine cocaine laboratories in the jungles of Bolivia and Peru, and also initiated a helicopter-borne cocaine air smuggling interdiction operation in Guatemala, all with the support he mustered from DoD’s Southern Command.

In 1995, CPT Lutz was promoted into the Senior Executive Service and transferred back to Thailand to head DEA’s operations in Southeast Asia. Coincidentally, the Clinton Administration decided at that time to begin normalizing diplomatic relations with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and the State Department chose international drug control as the issue to begin the dialogue. He made eleven trips from Bangkok to Hanoi over the next three years to help build the relationship with his former enemy that has since blossomed into one of America’s political and economic partners in Southeast Asia.

After the tragedy of 9-11, CPT Lutz was appointed TSA’s Federal Security Director at Orlando International Airport where he ensured the airport and air carriers were operating in compliance with federal security regulations, there were appropriate responses from law enforcement authorities to security incidents, and that passengers and baggage were properly screened.

He ended his full-time working career in Manila as the State Department’s Antiterrorism Assistance Program Manager and Counterterrorism Advisor to the Government of the Philippines. As such, he worked to integrate their law enforcement agencies into the nation’s counterterrorism efforts that theretofore had been the sole responsibility of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

For the past ten years, CPT Lutz has been a spokesman in the Upstate of South Carolina in opposition to the legalization of marijuana. He has worked closely with current South Carolina Senate President Thomas Alexander, and Oconee County Sheriff Michael Crenshaw in these efforts, and even testified before the Senate Medical Affairs Committee when it was considering the measure that would have legalized it.

He is a former member of the Salem Lions Club and for many years led their program to provide eyeglasses to the needy. CPT Lutz is currently a member of the American Legion Post 124 in Walhalla, South Carolina. He has been working with the VA’s Veteran Affairs Director for Oconee County, and others, to develop a panel of Vietnam War Veterans to speak at a community forum on Vietnam Veterans Day 2024 to create a better understanding by citizens of the hardships faced by many in Vietnam, by some when they returned home, and of the many contributions Vietnam Veterans have made to our community, state, and nation.

Coming full circle, Lutz was honored last year by being requested to be the keynote speaker at an Army ROTC Commissioning Ceremony at Penn State. He regaled the new officers with how his relatively brief military service aided his law enforcement career, and his life, recognizing that most ROTC-commissioned officers do not make a career of the military. He gave each new officer a copy of his book, Unpopular Causes: A Career in Service to America, which details his career, a copy of which is in the library at the Governor's Mansion in Columbia.

CPT Lutz retired to Salem, South Carolina in 2006 with his wife, Joy. 

February 12, 2024

Chief Petty Officer Jason Legare is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Chief Hospital Corpsman Jason Legare is the son of an Air Force Vietnam Veteran. He was raised and attended schools on Johns Island, SC. He entered the U.S. Navy in 1997, attending recruit training at Recruit Training Command and Hospital Corpsman “A” School in Great Lakes, Illinois. He later attended Field Medical Service School at Camp Johnson, NC.   

CPO Legare was assigned to National Navy Medical Center, Bethesda, MD prior to him attending Aerospace Medicine Technician “C” School in Pensacola, FL. Upon completion of “C” School, he reported to Naval Hospital Okinawa, Japan. There he was selected as the 2002 Aerospace Medicine Technician of the Year. He terminated shore duty for sea duty and transferred to VFA-211, NAS Oceana, VA. While assigned to VFA-211, CPO Legare was embarked on the USS ENTERPRISE in support of the OIF. He was selected as VFA-211 2005 Junior Sailor of the Year. During this tour, he volunteered as an Individual Augmentee with HC-4, Sigonella, Italy which deployed to support the Army at Camp Behring, Kuwait.

After his second deployment, he reported to the Navy Dosimetry Center, Bethesda, MD and worked as Primary Reviewer and Manpower Analysist at the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED) Washington, DC. He later transferred to MAG-31, MCAS Beaufort, SC and was assigned to VMFA-312.  While attached to VMFA-312, he embarked on the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN and was selected as the MAG-31 2011 Sailor of the Year. He also deployed to Afghanistan with 2D Marine Aircraft Wing (FWD) during this tour.

In 2012, CPO Legare transferred to US Naval Hospital Yokosuka, Japan. There, he was selected for Chief Petty Officer and served as the LCPO for Patient Administration, Staff Education and Training and Combined Food Operations Departments.  Chief Legare served in Japan for three years and returned to MAG-31 and served as the acting Navy Senior Enlisted Leader. In January 2017, he volunteered as the Navy Senior Enlisted Leader for the Special Marine Aircraft Group Task Force Crisis Response 17.2. As the SEL, he deployed to Moron, Spain in supported operations allocated to U.S. Africa Command to respond to missions in permissive and uncertain environments to protect U.S. personnel, property, and interests in the AFRICOM area of responsibility.

CPO Legare's personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal (3), Navy Achievement Medal (5), Good Conduct Medal (5) and various unit and service awards.  His warfare qualifications include Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Specialist, Enlisted Air Warfare Specialist, and Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist. He is married to Personnel Specialist First Class (Ret) Deandra Legare and has four children, Marquis, Aiyanna, Jason Jr. and Ja’Kobi.  He also has one granddaughter, Marianna. 

After retirement, he worked as a case manager and health care navigator for a non-profit serving homeless Veterans. He volunteered as a SC Ninth Judicial Circuit Veteran Treatment Court (VTC) Mentor for three years before becoming the VTC Liaison in September 2023. He is a Certified Peer Support Specialist and is currently enrolled in college finishing his degree.

February 20, 2024

Chief Master Sergeant Reginald Davis is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Chief Master Sergeant Reginald Davis is from Brooklyn, New York. He enlisted in the United States Airforce in 1978 and served four and a half years on active duty. Davis was stationed at Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland AFB TX where he worked as an Emergency Room Technician and paramedic before transferring to the Air Force Reserves in 1983.  

CMSgt Davis flew Aeromedical Evacuation missions in the 31st/315th Reserve Squadron from 1983-2000, and was activated during Operation Desort Storm, in 1991. In 2000 Davis transferred to 37th Airlift Wing, Medical Group, as an Individualized Mobilization Augmentee (IMA), were he helped support warriors dealing with behavioral health problems, before retiring in 2008. His military decorations include the Air Force Commendation Medal, Combat Readiness Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and AFR Reserve Person of the Year.

In 1983 Davis began a 33-year civilian paramedic career with Charleston County EMS, retiring as a Shift Commander in 2016. Davis has worked as a certified South Carolina DUI instructor since 2011, and emergency cardiac care trainer for the Medical University of SC (MUSC) since 2016. CMSgt Davis currently volunteers to help support “Justice Involved Veterans” as  The Ninth Judicial Circuit Veterans Treatment Court’s Mentor Coordinator, and facilitates a support group for inmates in the Charleston Consolidated Navy Brig.

Davis and his wife Lillie of 43 years have two children and one grandson, they are members of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, the 315th Airlift Wing Alumni Association, enjoy spending time with family, friends and helping others.      

February 26, 2024

Major Alvin Harvey is our newest Veteran of the Week!

MAJ Alvin Jerome Harvey was born in Portsmouth, Virginia on July 16, 1970. He attended school in Beaufort, South Carolina (SC) and graduated from Beaufort High School with honors. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from the University of South Carolina, Columbia. He later earned a Master of Science degree in Education from Wheelock College in Boston, Massachusetts. While attending the University of South Carolina, MAJ Harvey was enrolled in the Army ROTC program and ran Varsity Track for the Gamecocks. Upon graduation, MAJ Harvey was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in May of 1993 and joined the South Carolina Army National Guard.   

Initially assigned to Branched Transportation, MAJ Harvey quickly transitioned to Field Artillery shortly after being commissioned and has held that distinction his entire career. He was initially assigned as a Forward Observer with A-3/178FA in Jefferson, SC and upon completing FA Officer Basic Course (FT Sill, OK) in 1994, he was assigned as the Fire Direction Officer with B-3/178FA in Bennettsville, SC. He was later promoted to First Lieutenant in 1996 and was assigned as B-Battery's Operation Officer/XO. After later serving as an Ammo Platoon Leader with C-3/178FA, he was assigned as the BN S2 of the 3-178FA in 1999 and promoted to Captain in 2000. After serving as S2, he was transferred to the 1/178FA BN and was assigned to serve with the 1-118th IN BN in Mt Pleasant, SC as their BN Fire Support and later to the 263rd Armor BN in Mullins after the 911-Terrosist Attack on the U.S in 2001.

In 2002, MAJ Harvey returned to the 3/178FA BN and took over Command of C-Battery 3/178FA BN in Hartsville, SC, as their first African-American Battery Commander. As Battery Commander, MAJ Harvey led C-Battery to Iraq on a Combat Tour, after being activated and mobilized in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF II). While in Iraq, he was Awarded an ARCOM for his duties as a Combat Battery Commander, and then he was assigned as a Combat Battle Captain for the 3/178FA BN for the remainder of his tour. During his Combat Tour, the 3/178th FA BN served under the Command of the 197th FA BDE out of New Hampshire. C-Battery earned the distinction of being named the Top FA Battery during their service in Iraq, being awarded the Alexander Hamilton Award upon returning to their home station in Hartsville.

After returning from Iraq and serving a short assignment as the BN S4, MAJ Harvey was reassigned as C-Battery's 3/178th Commander after the sudden death of his battle buddy and close friend, Captain Sandor Gordon, who had just taken command. MAJ Harvey was the Commander of C-Battery when the last rockets of 3/178th BN were fired, after which, the 3rd BN transitioned from MLRS to Combat Engineers and Aviation Support. After the transitioning of the 3/178th FA BN, MAJ Harvey was assigned to the SC Joint Operation Center (JOC) as a Battle Captain and promoted to the rank of Major in 2007. As a Battle Captain, MAJ Harvey served in various positions while supporting several major training exercises and real-world major events. MAJ Harvey was awarded an ARCOM as a senior Battle Captain during Vigilant Guard 2008, which at the time, was the largest multi-state national training exercise in the history of South Carolina.

MAJ Harvey served a brief assignment with the CFMO section and was DA Selected to the rank of LTC in 2015, before being reassigned back to the JOC. He served as the senior Joint Current Operations Center Team Chief until his retirement in January 2020. MAJ Harvey's military education includes Field Artillery Officer Basic Course, Pre-Command School, Field Artillery Officer Advanced Course, Combine Arms Exercise (CAX), JOC 101 and JOC advance class, and Command and General Staff Course (ILE). Among MAJ Harvey's awards and decorations are 2 Army Commendation Medals, 4 Army Achievement Medals w/2 OCL, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal w/6 OCL, National Defense Service Medal 2 awards, Afghanistan Campaign Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal w/M device and gold hourglass, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon, Combat Action Badge, Air Assault Badge, SC Governor’s Unit Citation 3 awards, SC Army National Guard Achievement Ribbon, SC Army National Guard Active Service Ribbon 4 awards, and the SC Army National Guard Palmetto Service Ribbon.

MAJ Harvey is a retired Police Officer from the Beaufort Police Department. MAJ Harvey has served as the Head Boys’ Varsity Track and Field Coach for Beaufort High School and was named the 4A Region 8 Coach of the Year 4 times and the South Carolina State 4A Track and Field Coach of the Year in 2018 and 2019 after his team won the State Championships by wide margins. He is also a member of American Legion Post #207. MAJ Harvey currently resides in Beaufort, South Carolina, where he is a community activist and a proud and active member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

March 4, 2024

Lieutenant Colonel Rick Mantei is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Lt. Col. Rick Mantei earned his degree in civil engineering from the United States Air Force Academy in 1976, where he learned the humbling and eternal lessons that freedom is not free, and a sacrificial give-and-take is required to sustain the liberties in our country. Lt. Col. Mantei continued his education at Central Michigan University, where he obtained his Master's degree in Personnel Management. In the following years, he also worked towards his Ph.D. at the International University. After his worldwide deployment as an F-4 Phantom fighter pilot instructor, Mantei moved to Columbia and began his finance career as a stockbroker at Merrill Lynch. In his 13 years with the firm, Lt. Col. Mantei established himself as one of the top 10 Brokers nationwide and managed over $200 million in client assets.

It was at this time that he joined the South Carolina Air National Guard as an F-16 fighter pilot. In 1990, he was reactivated and deployed to Saudi Arabia where he completed a tour in Desert Storm, earning him the Distinguished Flying Cross and multiple Air Medals. Mantei retired from the South Carolina Air National Guard in 1997 as Lieutenant Colonel.

Lt. Col. Mantei is a member of the following Veteran organizations: American Legion, The VA, The Red Barn, Horsepower Healing, Silver Foxes, Warbirds of America (since 2004), American Legion (since 2023), AOPA (since 1994), Vintage Aircraft Member (Since 1994), Association of Airforce Grads, (AOG), Troop Appreciation, Gary Sinise Foundation, and the National WASP Museum.

March 11, 2024

Aviation Structural Mechanic Second Class Kevin Tate is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Aviation Structural Mechanic Second Class Kevin Tate enlisted into the United States Navy three days after graduating high school in June 1982. Petty Officer Tate received a commendation for attaining the highest scholastic average in his graduating Aviation Structural Mechanic “A” School in November 1982. After school, he traveled to Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan. There he was assigned to Tactical Electronic Attack Squadron - 136 (VAQ-136). His duties included maintaining and repairing ejection safety seats, electronic cooling systems and liquid oxygen breathing systems for the EA-6B Prowler aircraft. Tate was a top troubleshooter while working on the flightdeck of the USS Midway (CV 41) during several Carrier Air Wing 5 deployments. He was awarded Gauntlet of the Quarter, 1st Quarter, 1986 for superior troubleshooting skills for the squadron maintaining the highest possible sortie completion rate.  

After the military, AME2 Tate decided to complete his education while entering the workforce. He holds an MBA- Global Management, BS- Organizational Leadership & Communication, and AAS- Business Management. He used his leadership skills from the military and worked as an operations and plant manager for several manufacturing companies. He currently works as a Warehouse Manager for a successful maritime company in North Charleston, SC. He is certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP), CompTIA Security and Peer Support Specialist.

Tate enjoys the beach and traveling with his wife, Mary. He is a recovery advocate and enjoys speaking to fellow Veterans about substance abuse and sobriety. He volunteers as a mentor for Charleston County Veterans Treatment Court and participates with Project Street Outreach (PSO). He’s also a Palmetto Pathfinder for the South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs, Community Ambassador/alumni for Warrior Surf Foundation, a member of Coastal Warriors Veterans Kayaking Program through Coastal Expeditions and has been a coach for Charleston County Chargers Special Olympics Kayaking Team. 

March 18, 2024

Command Sergeant Major Robert Clark is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Command Sergeant Major (Retired) Robert L. Clark is a native of South Carolina. He entered the Army and graduated from One Station Unit Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma March 1986 as an Artillery Crewman and retired in April 2018 with over 32 years of active-duty service in the US Army. His previous assignments while on active duty include 1st Battalion 10th Field Artillery and 5th Battalion, 41st Field Artillery, 3rd Infantry Division Schweinfurt, Germany; 3rd Battalion, 41st Field Artillery, 24th Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Georgia; 2nd Battalion, 39th Infantry Regiment and Reception Battalion at Fort Jackson, South Carolina; 1st Battalion, 37th Field Artillery, 2nd Infantry Division (SBCT) at Fort Lewis, Washington; 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team in Baumholder, Germany; Fires Test Directorate at Fort Sill, Oklahoma; 2nd Battalion, 307th Field Artillery Regiment (Training Support) at Camp Atterbury, Indiana; 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery, 1AD DIVARTY, Fort Bliss, Texas and 4th Battlefield Coordination Detachment, ARCENT at Shaw AFB, SC.

CSM Clark is a graduate of the Defense Support of Civil Authority Course (DCSA), Command Sergeant Major Development Course, and all the Non-Commission Officers Education System courses, to include the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy, First Sergeant Course, Pre-Command Course, Drill Sergeant School, Combat Lifesaver Course, Unit Movement Officer Course, Field Sanitation Course, and Small Arms Maintenance Course along with many more. CSM Clark holds an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Columbia Junior College, an Associate Degree in Administration Management from Excelsior College, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership from Columbia Southern University.

CSM Clark’s military awards and decorations include the Drill Sergeant Badge, Combat Action Badge, Driver Badge Track, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with two oak leaf cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with silver oak leaf cluster and two bronze oak leaf cluster, Army Commendation Medal with two oak leaf cluster, Army Achievement Medal with sliver oak leaf cluster and two bronze oak leaf cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal ten award, and various deployment and campaign ribbons. CSM Clark is also a member of the prestigious Sergeant Audie Murphy Club, recipient of the Ancient Order and the Honorable Order of Saint Barbara, Noble Patron of Armor, and the Order of Saint Maurice. For over 32 years, in combat and peacetime, CSM Clark excelled as a leader and demonstrated unwavering commitment to Soldiers, Family members and mission accomplishment. 

CSM (R) Robert L. Clark has been married to the former Veronica Edwards of Charleston, South Carolina for over 36 years. They have two children, Robert Jr. (Sonny) and Veronne (Babygirl). Clark has achieved remarkable accomplishments during his tenure as Commander, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the values and mission of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). CSM Clark's dedication to serving Veterans extended beyond his role as Chapter 20 Commander, as evidenced by his various additional volunteer and appointed positions he held within the South Carolina Department of Disabled Americans Veterans organization:

1. DAV Department assistant State Convention Chairman (2022-2024)
2. DAV Dorn VA Hospital Patient Transportation Specialist (2019-2024)
3. DAV Department Chief of Staff (2021-2023)
4. National Deputy Chief of Staff (2021-2023)
5. DAV Department State Convention Chairman (2020-2022)
6. DAV District II Aide to Committeemen (2019-2020)

His commitment to Veterans' causes is exemplified by the positions he held and the roles he undertook in other organizations:

1. Columbia Branch NAACP Armed Forces & Veteran Affairs Committee Chairman
2. Palmetto Pathfinder for the South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs
3. South Carolina Democratic Party Veterans Council
4. Dorn VA Hospital Certified Volunteer
5. Lifetime member of the VFW.

His leadership has not only strengthened the 92nd Buffalo Chapter 20 but also enriched the lives of its members and the community. CSM Clark’s desire and passion to empower Veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity motivated and inspired the 92nd Buffalo Chapter 20 to enhance the lives of countless Veterans and their families, in consistent with the mission of the South Carolina Department of Disabled American Veterans, “Keeping Our Promise to American’s Veterans”.

April 1, 2024

Petty Officer Third Class Bradley Trogdon is our newest Veteran of the Week!

While working as a machine operator (40-60hrs/week), PO3 Bradley Trogdon, graduated from Rasmussen College online with a BS in Business Management. Under the same circumstances he graduated from Grand Canyon University with an MBA and MSL, then Villanova University for Project Management certificate and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. He has also completed FDA online training to earn certificates for nearly a dozen continuing education totaling over 27 hours.

Bradley started as a Blow Fill Seal machine operator 3 years after honorably serving the Navy (EAOS 08/15) for a reputable pharmaceutical manufacturing company. After earning his dual masters and LSSBB he was promoted to Validation Engineer. His most notable project for Validation was the expedited and precise qualification/validation of the new 150,000sqft packaging warehouse to include: HVAC, safety & security, electrical, lighting, and the relocation of all packaging lines which also included leading and assisting the re-qualification of all six packaging lines. Bradley led the replacement of four HVAC units beginning with writing the protocols for validation and ensuring the units were qualified after installation no matter time of day or day of the week. When Ritedose expanded and opened their 503B department, Bradley was transferred to Process Control to help the new department as their engineer in charge of writing all investigations for failures due to HVAC, procedures, or human error. From his time in Validation and Process Control; writing protocols for qualifications, summary reports, failures, IOQ/PQ/OQ/IQ, studies, supplier quality alerts, deviations, and investigations he authored 327 documents. It is unknown how many documents Bradley collaborated on in the past four years to help streamline processes or validation work. Bradley also authored over 200 Raise the Bar changes to better processes, procedures, or the facility.

Bradley was recognized multiple times as the monthly Raise the Bar winner and twice as the annual Raise the Bar winner.  He was also recognized as a 2017 and 2018 Pro Staff member for K2 Coolers while competing in Professional Long Drive Golf.  Bradley has been volunteering and assisting coaching at Palmetto Baseball League where his two sons play baseball.  He has been involved with all practices and games for both boys and ensuring everyone on the team is not only learning solid fundamentals of baseball but the importance of team work and having fun.  While his involvement in the community is not through organizations, Bradley gets out in his surrounding neighborhoods with his chainsaw to help clean up after storms.  His work through pharmaceutical manufacturing has helped so many people that use eye or ear drops, inhalation solutions, and many more medications needed for survival.

April 8, 2024

MSgt Lawrence Wood is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Lawrence (Larry) Wood is United States Air Force retiree (1989-2018), serving in the Gulf War, Dessert Shield, Desert Storm and the Global War on Terrorism. After he retired from the service honorably and faithfully with numerous medals and awards, Larry took on a Probation job, where he works for Veterans Treatment Court and quickly rose up to a supervisor where he was relied upon as the departments Veteran subject matter expert for dealing with Veterans and the resources to provide. After five years, Larry transitioned to the Department of Homeland Security as a Law Enforcement Training Technician where he became part of the DHS Veterans Resource Employment Assistance (VREA) team. Larry became certified as a Peer Support Team Member and a Peer Support Team Leader. He was also trained as a mentor and staff member for Veterans Treatment Court, Drug Court, and other specialty courts where he assisted Veterans with aid in homelessness, drug and alcohol addiction, as well as other mental health issues and disorders with their military service and post service. With his past experience when he was active duty Human Resources, his experience with benefits, HUD VASH, education, and DEERS has assisted tremendously.

Larry was the Drug Demand Officer with the Young Marines teaching the kids on a monthly basis for drugs and health and wellness, also mentoring them to present topics as well to the community. He assisted with Elks Lodge Veterans committee supporting veterans facing homelessness with basic necessities, housing and offering a hot meal at the lodge monthly. Larry also participates in the Honor Guard to help honor Veterans for their past service. Larry is heavily involved with many Veteran organizations such as American Legion, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Wounded Warrior Project, (WWP), Charleston Warriors, Palmetto Military Support Group, Elks Lodge Veteran Committee, Young Marines, Civil Air Patrol, and other Veterans Council as well as others.

In 2022, Larry became part of the South Carolina Warriors (Charleston) Disabled Veterans Sled Hockey Program. Larry is not only a participant, but promoted that they offer those with mobility issues to be part of a team. With his fundraising efforts, Larry was able to raise $6,000 for the program and quickly became the fundraising officer for the program.

South Carolina Warriors is the only program like this in the state. This program is actively looking to start other efforts in different regions of the state. It is important to be involved with programs like this because sports and recreation programs can help Veterans and adults establish lifelong, healthy physical activity patterns. Physical activity has been known to improve mobility, build strength, increase confidence, and enhance the quality of life. This helps with suicide prevention as well as the use of adaptive sports is a form of medicine for the participants. Larry always volunteers to help, especially with Veterans. He loves to help and share his knowledge with other Veterans in need. Larry has gone to the local school and talked to students about his military career. Larry served for 29 years and had an extraordinary career. Some of his positions held were firefighter, chemical warfare, rescue swimmer, security/ law enforcement, information management, personnel, administration, and recruiting.

Assignments:

• 1989-1992 USS Sides FFG-14. Firefighter/ Chemical Warfare/ Rescue Swimmer
• 1992-1994 USS Elliot DD-967 Firefighter/ Chemical Warfare
• 1994-1995 Naval Station San Diego Firefighting Instructor
• 1995-1998 NAS North Island, CA, Small Craft Engineer and Coxswain, Maritime Security, Oil Spill Recovery
• 1998-2001 HQ STARC, Camp Guernsey, WY. Firefighter, training NCO 2001 158th Security Forces, VT. Security
• 2001-2005 NRC Glens Falls, NY. Seabees, firefighter, small craft
• 2005-2006 158th Civil Engineering, VT. Firefighter
• 2006-2007 158th Mission Support Flight, VT. Information Systems Management
• 2007-2011 158th Force Support Flight, VT. Enlisted and Officer Recruiting
• 2011 158th Force Support Flight, VT. Cyber Support, Administration 2011 158th Force Support Flight, VT. Installation Personnel Readiness
• 2012-2014 158th Force Support Flight, VT. Human Resources/ PME Instructor
• 2014-2018 HQ Recruiting, JBSA Randolph, TX. Recruiting/ Operations Analyst

His final duty was as Headquarters, JBSA Randolph, TX. He retired with a substantial number of awards and decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal (2), Air Force Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal (2), Army Achievement Medal, and Navy Achievement Medal (2). He also had the Headquarters Air Force Badge, Honor Guard Badge, Air Force Professional Military Education Badge, Recruiting Badge, Expert pistol and rifle badges, Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist, Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist, and Enlisted Petty Officer in Charge Small Craft. Larry’s family includes his wife Lanelle and his dog Bella.

April 15, 2024

Tony Bush is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Tony Bush currently serves as the Director of Veterans Affairs for the Richland County Veterans Affairs Office located in Columbia South Carolina.  He is a Veteran Service Officer dedicated to providing counseling and assistance to veterans and their dependents in applying for any federal, state and county benefits they may be eligible for.

He has served in many capacities throughout his career, notably as the Supervisor of Registration for the State of South Carolina’s Vital Record System, and with the State Department of Education as the Military Initiatives Program Coordinator and Alternative Certification Specialist, with a focus on recruiting veterans for the Federal Troops to Teachers Program.

He is President and CEO of BUBE Records, a 501c(3) Non-Profit Organization whose mission is to use music as a tool for evangelism through live performance, recordings and workshops.  He is Board Chair for Kindred Hearts SC, a 501c(3) Non-Profit Organization whose focus is to serve persons who are taking care of their kin. He is a Notary Public, Fitness Instructor, and volunteers with local schools for the Read Across America Program, and Lunch Buddy mentorship programs. 

Born and raised in Miami Florida, Tony is a 26 year Army Veteran now living in Columbia South Carolina.  He holds a Master’s in Public Administration and a Master’s in Human resources.

April 22, 2024

Dwayne Smalls is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Sonar Technician Submarines First Class (SS) Dwayne Smalls is the son of a Navy Veteran. He grew up and attended public schools in Hollywood, SC. He entered the U.S. Navy in 1990 and after completing recruit training, he attended Basic Enlisted Submarine School (BESS) at Naval Submarine Base New London, CT before completing Sonar Technician Submarine “A” and “C” Schools in San Diego, CA.

STS1(SS) Smalls was assigned to USS Hammerhead SSN-663 in Naval Station Norfolk. While there, he completed the personal submarine qualification program that culminates in being designated as “Qualified in Submarines” – earning the right to wear the coveted Silver Dolphins Insignia and take on all the responsibilities that go with it. After decommissioning, he transferred to USS Phoenix SSN-702. When he finished his sea tour, he attended Sonar Technician AN/BQQ-6 “C” school at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, GA before reporting to USS West Virginia SSBN-736(G). Upon completion of this sea tour, he returned to New London, CT for instructor duty. While there he was selected to teach instructor training. During this time, he qualified as a Master Training Specialist (MST) Instructor. As an instructor, he taught, developed, and qualified those individuals who possessed advanced knowledge, skills, and abilities that enhanced the delivery of quality education and training in the Navy. He then reported to USS Boise SSN-764 where he was assigned as the Command Career Counselor, Ship and Department Training Officer and LPO for the Sonar division. As a collateral duty he was also selected as the 1st Lieutenant and supervised Deck Division. Under his leadership, the ship was awarded the Deck Seamanship White “D” Award, the Golden Anchor Retention Excellence Award, and completed multiple deployments culminating with a 7-month deployment where the submarine surfaced at the North Pole.

STS1(SS) Smalls' final duty station was Naval Ocean Processing Facility (NOPF) Dam Neck, VA where he was awarded Senior Sailor of the Quarter and was on the dean’s list while earning his associate degree in Supervision and Management. After retirement, he moved back home to SC and completed his BS in Human Services and MS in Community Counseling Psychology. He has worked as a Behavior Modification Specialist and Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. 

Smalls currently works at One80 Place as the Veteran Outreach Coordinator. One80 Place is a non-profit organization, in partnership with the VA, which provides housing services and assistance to end Veteran homelessness. In this role, he conducts outreach activities and provides community-based case management to homeless Veterans and families. 

In his spare time, he can often be found volunteering at his church and at local civic events in his community. He enjoys traveling, reading, spending time with family, and helping others.

June 3, 2024

Willie White is our newest Veteran of the Week!

The honorable Willie White was born June 03, 1924 in Manning, SC. White is a U.S. Army WWII Veteran (07-11-1944 through 10-29-1946). He married the late (Deceased 1996) Mrs. Frances S. White in 1947. Together they had two daughters-Margaret W. Sanders and the late Frances Rosetta White (Deceased 1987).

Willie White’s other notable achievements include the following:

• Member, Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church - Manning, SC
• Trustee Board/Past Church Custodian
• Member, Manning Branch, N.A.A.C.P. (Executive Committee)
• Former Owner, Mercury Dry Cleaners And Laundromat - Manning, SC
• Member, Carter Sullivan American Legion Post 204
• Member, Clarendon County Democratic Party
• Member, Clarendon County Democratic Caucus
• Member, Brotherly Love Masonic Lodge No. 99
• Prince Hall, Free & Accepted Masons

June 10, 2024

Forrest Angus Neely is our newest Veteran of the Week!

This longtime Lowcountry resident recently celebrated his 100th birthday where he reflected on his life and military experiences. Forrest Angus Neely was Born June 6, 1924 in Detroit, Michigan. Neely has two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren from his oldest daughter Debbie and her husband Tony. Neely currently lives with his youngest daughter Mitzi in Folly Beach since 2019 and enjoys attending FBUMC, Senior Citizens and local activities.When WWII began, he went to Chattanooga, along with other friends and joined the Navy, where the recruiter talked them into trying out for Navy Flight School. They went back to college to complete courses and wait to be called.

Once called, Neely reported to Atlanta, along with 500 recruits for two days of grueling mental and physical exams. Of the 500, 35 were sworn in. The Navy sent them back to college to study related prep classes. In August 1942, he started Flight Training at the Naval Air Station in Millington, TN (30 miles from Memphis). Next, he went to UGA in Athens, GA for pre-flight school. At that time, there was a surplus of pilots, so he changed course and opted for aviation mechanic school. Neely reported to Norman, Oklahoma for 9 months, then to gunnery school at Hollywood, Florida.

Upon completion of gunnery school, he was ordered to report back to Navy Flight School at UGA, for a second time for more mental and physical testing – mainly physical.  After finishing at UGA, Neely was sent to the University of South Carolina for more physical and mental testing – then sent to Auburn, Alabama and finally started flying. His first solo flight took place in July 1944. From Auburn he was sent back to Naval Air Base in Memphis, TN where he continued to fly until 1945 - then to Chicago. Next, he went to California for a month, then boarded a ship to the Philippines. There was a rough crossing where he endured storms and almost capsized. The remaining time was spent on the Philippine Islands.  

Neely discharged from the Navy (served 1942-46) in Charleston, SC and headed home to Copperhill, TN. He headed back to Tennessee Wesleyan College to finish his second year. Neely’s drafting instructor asked if he would like a job at Taylor Implement Company as a draftsman.  His class schedule allowed time to work, where he drew farm implements for the patent office. He worked for Taylor until he graduated from TWC in the spring of 1947. That summer, he worked at Vogel State Park as a water safety director and lifeguard.

Neely went to North Georgia College (in Dahlonega, GA) to use their key machine to get keys made for the locker rooms at the park. While there, he met his wife, Jean Meyer, the Head Dietician of NGC. He met up with her again at a dance at Neals Gap Inn. They fell in love – and were married four months later in the Baptist Church in Dahlonega, where Jean’s sister Ann, and brother Doug, attended. They lived in Copperhill, and Neely worked at Tennessee Copper Company until moving to Athens, where he enrolled in the University of Georgia. 

Jean stayed behind to finish out her contract at NGC, then moved to Athens and accepted a dietitian job at Athens High School, along with working for the Department of Education setting up a state-wide accounting system.  During the summer months, they worked for Athens YMCA Summer Camp in Tallulah Falls, GA. Neely finished his Bachelor of Fine Arts at UGA and worked at Georgia Power until the government started building the Savannah River Plant, outside of Aiken, SC. Jean and Forrest moved to Augusta and rented an apartment, where he commuted to Aiken, and she worked as a dietitian at the Georgia Medical College in Augusta.

He was hired as a draftsman in the chart room, along with four other men. After a year, he was promoted as head of the drafting section. He had to be Q-cleared because of top secret information. Jean and Neely moved to Aiken, SC in 1950 and bought a house from Combs and McDonald Builders. We became close friends, all newlyweds and started families. Jean got pregnant and had Debbie on January 27, 1954. 

Neely worked at the Savannah River Plant until 1958, as the Dupont contract was coming to the end of the construction phase. They started sending employees to new destinations (overseas) and Jean was pregnant with Mitzi. Neely left Dupont in 1958 and started working for Combs and McDonald Builders in Aiken. He built a subdivision in Aiken – and they sent him to Charleston, SC to build the outer perimeter of the Country Club of Charleston. Neely hurriedly built the family house– and Jean delivered Mitzi at Roper Hospital February 26, 1958.  

After working for Combs, Parks and McDonald, he decided to start his own company, Neely Incorporated of Charleston. He built several homes at Folly, Sullivans Island, Isle of Palms and Charleston area (including “Little Jerusalem – South Windemere”) and became good friends with several Jewish families including the Sabels, Zinns, and Harris-Ligettes. He made a lot of positive contacts and prospered with good word of mouth.  

He did a lot of work at Folly and became close friends with Folly City Hall employees, including Marlene Estridge, and the City Administrator. Folly hired him to be the building inspector around 1960 until 1967. Neely worked on the Rescue Squad part time, as well as being a volunteer fireman.  He served as a lifeguard and provided water rescue on the beach and surrounding area. He made several lifetime friends from his time in Charleston.  

Neely and his family moved to Winterville, GA during Thanksgiving break 1967 where he assisted managing Farmer’s Hardware in Athens, GA (Jean’s father’s hardware store). He retired from the Hardware company in 1980. Jean sadly, passed away in 2003.  Neely was active in Legion Post 20, Winterville United Methodist Church, WUMC Men’s Club, Winterville Perpetual Care Cemetery Board, and the local Birthday Club.

Neely had the good fortune of being one of the Veteran Grand Marshalls in the Folly Christmas Parade (2010). He participated in the WW II Honor Flight. He received the Quilt of Valor from Athens Legion Auxiliary – and most recently flew a Steerman in Athens, GA. He received the key to the City (of Folly Beach) in 2020 and he is grateful for his friends in Winterville and Folly Beach. Neely gives God, and the Navy, credit for his longevity and blessed life. 

You can view Live 5 News' coverage of Neely here.

June 18, 2024

Pvt. Julian Snype is our newest Veteran of the Week!

The Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System celebrated the 100th birthday of Pvt. Snype, a U.S. Army Veteran of World War II, June 14, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the Veterans’ Victory House in Walterboro, South Carolina.

Snype joined the Army in 1943 as an 18-year-old. He had grown up on a Johns Island family farm. After getting out of the military and living in New York for a short stint as a meat packer, he has since lived in Charleston. Snype loaded ammunition and firearms onto trucks during WWII, usually loading and un-loading them for trips back and forth to the front lines.

During the celebration of his accomplishments, Snype was presented with a “shadowbox” style gift commemorating his years of service during such an influential time in history for both our country and the world. During the shadowbox presentation, U.S. Air Force Reserve Brigadier General John Painter, who is also a Chaplain at the Ralph H. Johnson VA, presented his award and thanked him for his valiant and brave service.

June 24, 2024

Shelia E Henderson is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Colonel (R) Shelia E. Henderson is the Budget Officer, Comptroller Global Financial Services Center, U.S. Department of State, located in Charleston, South Carolina.  As the Budget Officer, she is responsible for development, justification, and execution of the Center's budget totaling approximately $60 million for offices in Charleston, Bangkok, Paris, Sofia and Manila. 

Colonel Henderson was born in Charleston, South Carolina.  She graduated from Charleston High College Preparatory School at sixteen years of age.  She then received her Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of South Carolina and was commissioned a second lieutenant through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, in 1980, at the age of 20.  During her 26-year military career, she has held a variety of Financial Management positions as Wing, Major Command, the Air and Joint Staff levels.  A graduate of Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College and Air War College, Colonel Henderson holds a Master's Degree in Business Administrative Management from Central Michigan University and holds Defense Acquisition Certifications in both Financial and Program Management.

She held numerous officer billets and completed many detachments and deployments. Her assignments include Grissom AFB, IN, Yokota AB Japan, Wright Patterson AFB, OH, Mountain Home AFB, ID, Langley AFB, VA and special assignments at the Pentagon, Washington DC.

Her last position on active duty was Chief, Budget Division, Comptroller Directorate, Air Combat Command, headquartered at Langley AFB, VA.  At this Major Command, she was responsible for the development and justification of command budgets for 54 separate appropriations totaling approximately $35 billion in current and prior year funds, and monitoring utilization of this funding in 109 funding points - 18 bases, 2 centers, and 7 major tenant wings – through 42 personnel in HQ ACC/FMA and over 300 personnel in the field. 

MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS

• Legion of Merit
• Defense Meritorious Service Medal
• Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters
• Air Force Commendation Medal
• Air Force Achievement Medal
• Joint Meritorious Unit Award
• Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
• Air Force Organizational Excellence Award
• National Defense Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster
• Global War on Terrorism Medal

After retirement, Colonel Henderson became the Deputy Comptroller (GS 505-14) at United States Joint Forces Command (USJFCOM)(Navy), Norfolk, VA.  There she supervised and managed the overall budget, finance, and accounting functions for USJFCOM.  She also served as the primary advisor to the USJFCOM Comptroller and provided expert advice to senior Naval Flag Officers and the Joint Forces Business Management Offices.

Colonel Henderson returned to Charleston in 2011 to be closer to her grandmother, parents, and siblings. She has one daughter, Alisha, also a University of South Carolina graduate. She enjoys traveling, attending historical events, and listening to jazz. She supports local causes for the betterment of social, economic, and progressive services for Veterans, the underserved, and those organizations that advocate and work to improve the lives of people with cancer.  

July 1, 2024

Sheila Gilmore is our newest Veteran of the Week!

After 20 years of military service and earning a four-year degree, Sheila Gilmore never imagined it would be difficult to get a job. She had a 15-year employment gap on her resume, which reflected the time she was a stay-at-home mom, and the journey to find employment was rocky, but never gave up on her job search. Her perseverance as well as her dedication and passion for serving others helped her achieve her career goals despite the set backs.

Sheila Gilmore joined the U.S. Army in 1983 and retired in 2003 having achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class. She was always determined to achieve excellence, which is why she went to night school to obtain a bachelor’s in psychology while serving her country. Once retired from military service, Sheila worked to be the best role model to her family.

In 2005, she moved to Greenville, SC, where she was to begin an inspection job. When the full-time mom learned the new job had been changed to third shift, however, she realized taking the job would not be in the best interest of her family. Finding employment that would also balance with the needs of her family became a challenge, and Sheila was unable to find work suitable to her schedule.

Two years later, tragedy struck when Sheila’s oldest son was in a severe car accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury. He needed full-time care and physical therapy, so she became his around-the-clock caretaker. Doctors told Sheila that her son would never regain his memory, but she refused to accept this prognosis and devoted herself to rehabilitating her son. Sheila helped her son fully recover, and now he owns his own trucking business.

After 15 years out of the workforce raising her children and rehabilitating her son, Sheila again looked for work and found more challenges than she’d anticipated. She applied for jobs in industries both in and out of her professional field as she looked for someone to take a chance on her. She hoped to find a hiring manager who would focus on her skillsets rather than her time out of the workforce. In 2019, Sheila was hired as a retail associate at a Goodwill store in Greenville, and things started changing for the better.

Sheila found doors opening before her after accepting her new role with Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina. She dedicated herself to performing all duties to the best of her ability, and was quickly asked to become a PAL (Partner Associate Leader) peer coach to new associates. Sheila was a role model to other associates and a reliable peer leader to her managers. After a year, she was promoted into the ecommerce division, received a pay raise and learned a whole new side of retail. Since that time, Sheila has become a go-to for her managers and a leader to her peers.

Not content to simply perform her job duties, Sheila also volunteered for the organization’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Employee Resource Group, where she participated on committees and helped drive DEI principles in the organization. Sheila continues to grow and develop and seek out new challenges within the organization, volunteering for projects and taking advantage of development opportunities.

July 8, 2024

William Saunders is our newest Veteran of the Week!

William "Bill" Saunders was born in New York City in 1935 and raised on Johns Island, South Carolina.  At age fifteen, Saunders did not disclose his correct age and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1951.  He encountered the North Koreans, stepping on a booby trap in the snow in 1951.  Although he was injured, the Army denied him a Purple Heart until it was finally awarded to him in a special ceremony at The Citadel, the Military College in Charleston, in 2002.  He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant in 1954.

In the 1960s, Saunders gained a reputation as an advocate of racial equality.  Frustrated hospital workers sought Saunders’s assistance in forming an organization to advocate for their rights.  During the Charleston Hospital Strike in 1969, Saunders was arrested and jailed briefly.  He immediately joined the demonstrators upon his release.  Saunders encouraged a negotiated settlement for the strike with hospital leaders, and he later advocated for re-hiring the terminated hospital workers.  After the strike, Saunders founded the Committee on Better Racial Assurance (COBRA) and co-owned a radio station.

Mr. Saunders is the Founder and former Chief Executive Officer of the Committee on Better Racial Assurance (COBRA) Human Services Agency in Charleston, South Carolina.  He is also the former owner and president of several area radio stations, including WPAL Radio Charleston. 

Mr. Saunders has given many years to the Charleston County Democratic Party and was elected to the Charleston County O.E.O. Commission in 1967.  He served as a member of the Public Service Commission of South Carolina, representing the First Congressional District from 1994 - 2004 and served as the Chairman of the Public Service Commission in 2002.  He has earned both local and national praise for his impressive work in the Lowcountry.  He is the First Black broadcaster to serve as the SC Broadcasters Association President in 1988 and the First Black broadcaster to be inducted in the SCBA Hall of Fame. He is a past recipient of the NAACP Outstanding Service Award and the American Federation Silver Medal ADDY Award.  He also was inducted into the University of South Carolina College of Journalism and Mass Communication Diamond Circle, among many other notable achievements.

Mr. Saunders’ community involvements are numerous and extensive and include membership in the National Association of Broadcasters, National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, National Water Commission, Trident Technical College Foundation, and the Medical University of South Carolina President’s Advisory Council, among many others. 

Mr. Saunders is retired and still resides with his wife, Henrietta, on Johns Island, SC.  

July 22, 2024

CDR Darryl Brown is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Commander Darryl Brown US Navy, Retired Darryl Brown, a 1995 graduate of the University of South Carolina, holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. His academic prowess was further honed when he earned a Masters of Arts degree in National Security & Strategic Studies from the Naval War College in 2006. Darryl's leadership was evident in his service aboard several warships located on both the East and West coast of the United States. His pinnacle moment came when he assumed command of the USS Robert G. Bradley on November 5, 2010.Under Darryl’s exceptional leadership as Captain of the USS Robert G. Bradley, he orchestrated and completed a highly successful African Partnership Station (APS) deployment. APS is a multinational security cooperation initiative, currently comprised of 34 nations and led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and aimed at improving maritime safety and security in Africa and Europe while building lasting relationships. Darryl’s shore assignments include the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, where he served as associate professor of Naval Science and the United States Joint Forces Command (USJFCOM) as a Military Analyst.

While at USJFCOM, Darryl was deployed to Iraq serving as a Military Analyst in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Darryl’s personnel awards include: Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (two), Navy Commendation Medal (two), Joint Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medal (three) and various campaign/deployment medals. Since transitioning from naval service, Darryl has made significant strides in his civilian career. He  worked as a Regional Industry Sector Manager for CareerSource Northeast Florida,  where he developed industry and educational institutions partnerships in the Northeast Florida. Darryl moved  to Charleston South Carolina in 2020 and continued making significant strides in his civilian career as Director of Emerging Workforce at the Charleston Metro Chamber, where he was recently promoted to Senior Director of Military Affairs. 

Darryl's community involvements are numerous and extensive, showcasing his leadership skills. He has served as the Vice Chairman of the Palmetto Goodwill Board of Directors, a role that demands strategic thinking and effective decision-making. His service on the Board of South Carolina Acceleration Academy further demonstrates his ability to lead and inspire. Darryl's leadership extends to the Trident Workforce Development Board Youth Advisory Council, where he has made significant contributions. He is also a life member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, a testament to his commitment to community and service.

Darryl is married with two children and resides in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.

July 29, 2024

Maj. Charlton Blanks is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Charlton H. Blanks was born on 3 February 1938 at Ridgeline Drive, Chester, SC. 
Before the military he was a family farm worker. He had twin brother.  Blanks was a part of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) at Chester High, where he graduated school 1956 and worked at Borden Creamery.  He attended Clemson Agricultural College of South Carolina before transferring to University of South Carolina in ROTC program, graduating in 1961.  He was in the student lounge contemplating his career choices when a sharply dressed Marine recruiter walked in and challenged him.  He joined and became a Marine.

While in the military he began as a rank of Private First Class Marine at Clemson University. Blanks graduated from the University of South Carolina. Later, he attended basic training at the Quantico, Virginia Officer Candidate School

Follow training Blanks attended Camp Pendleton in California. Next he attended Intelligence Officer School at Fort Holabird, in Maryland. He was stationed to three tours in Vietnam in 1964, 1968, and 1975 as an Infantry and Intelligence Officer. His reference battles include the1968 Tet Offensive, Abilene final mission.

Blanks civilian work included teaching  high school in Chester county, where his classes included 8th grade science and 12th grade physics.

His Medals/Honors include the following:

• Humanitarian Service Medal
• Letter of Appreciation
• National Defense Service Medal
• Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
• Vietnam Service Medal
• Presidential Unit Citation
• Navy Commendation Medal
• Combat Action Ribbon
• Navy Unit Commendation 
• Republic of Vietnam National Gallantry Cross Unit Citation
• Armed Forces Expeditionary Service Medal
• Defense Meritorious Service Medal

August 5, 2024

PO 3 Dominic Owens is our newest Veteran of the Week!

After graduating high school in 1990, Dominic Germain Owens went into the US Navy and served for 2 years as a Gunners Mate upon the USS Concord ASF-5.  Shortly thereafter, through hard work and dedication, he was accepted into the US Naval Academy.  Unfortunately, as his ship was out at sea, it encountered a terrible storm where many sailors were severely injured, including PO 3 Dominic Owens.  Due to this untimely injury, he was honorably discharged from the US Navy in 1993 and unable to attend the Naval Academy.    
 
After his tenure in the military, he remained in Norfolk, VA where he founded a community outreach street program that fed over 250 people every week. He later attended North Carolina Central University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and graduated with honors; Magna Cum Laude. 
 
He was also licensed as a minister and served in multiple capacities at his local church.  He functioned as the chaplain over the College Ministry organization that comprised of students from UNC Chapel Hill, North Carolina Central University, and Duke University. He was the leader over the teen ministry and Vice President of the Pastor’s Aide. He also had the opportunity to minister in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil and Ghana, Africa during a couple of short-term mission trips. 
 
He also served as the Outreach Coordinator and later the Vice President of the Board of Directors of JOY, Inc. which was a non-profit organization that focused on creating and developing opportunities for the youth and college students within the community. 
 
In 2004, he married Nedra Owens. Shortly thereafter, they moved to Lynchburg, VA where he served as the leader over the Teen Ministry, the Pastor’s Assistant, a Pastoral Staff member, and a member of the Board of Directors. In 2009, Dominic was ordained as a Pastor and moved to Florence, SC to start Risen Church. 

Dominic has always been a person of magnificent work ethics, which has been proven by him consistently receiving the Employee of the Month or Employee of the Year awards at each place of employment. He served on the Board of Directors for Family Promise, a non-profit organization that assists homeless families.   
 
In 2019, Dominic was appointed as a Magistrate in Florence County. He currently serves as the Associate Chief Judge and in 2024 was appointed the Veteran’s Court Judge by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of SC.   
 
Dominic loves people and especially loves to see people win. Most of all, he values his relationship with God and loves, his wife their three beautiful daughters Daimond, Jada, and Kayla.

August 12, 2024

Donald P. Jenkins, Jr. is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Donald P. Jenkins, Jr. was born in the Philadelphia Naval hospital in South Philadelphia on November 21, 1953 at approximately 20:00. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on January, 4 1971.  His basic training took place at Parris Island South Carolina. Next he  to advanced infantry training at Camp Geiger, North Carolina. He was assigned to Camp Lejeune, 2nd Marine Division, 1st battalion, 6th regiment.  

Next he was assigned to 3rd Marine Division, 2nd battalion, 9th regiment, Okinawa.  Later he was deployed to the Philippines for jungle training.  Later he was deployed to Vietnam on the USS Okinawa, a helicopter carrier.  Jenkins was assigned to the Gulf of Tokin in Vietnam, with flights inside Vietnam and duty in Da Nang, Vietnam.  He departed Vietnam and went to Hong Kong for rest, then back to Okinawa. He finished tour of duty and was sent to Camp Pendleton, California to be assigned to inactive reserve and was discharged from active duty in April 1973. Jenkins is a proud father of a soldier.

Jenkins' other recognitions include the following:

• President VVA Chapter 1145
• American Legion 1st Vice Commander Post 71
• MCL Marine of the Year 1994
• Toys for Tots Campaign

August 19, 2024

SSgt Jayson Humble is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Jayson Humble served in the United States Air Force from 2016 to 2023. During his service, Jayson was stationed at Charleston Air Force Base, where he was assigned to the 437th Aerial Port Squadron as an Air Transportation Specialist (2T2). Demonstrating exceptional dedication and skill in his role, Jayson rapidly advanced to the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-5) in just three years.

After returning home from overseas in 2021, SSgt. Humble was awarded The Air Force Commendation Medal for his outstanding work in logistics, anti-terrorism prevention, and contributions to Operation Spartan Shield. Jayson earned an Honorable Discharge in 2023.

Jayson shifted his focus to a career in technology. Demonstrating the same dedication and drive that characterized his military service, he has completed over 50% of a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Cybersecurity from ECPI University in just 10 months. Jayson also leveraged a DoD SkillBridge internship into employment at a growing technology company, www.heirloom.cloud in Mount Pleasant, SC.

Jayson has been very busy since his transition from the Air Force. He also manages a family-owned cleaning business, Harmoni Cleaning. With his remaining time, Jayson enjoys spending it at home with his growing family in Summerville, SC. His family includes his wife, daughter, dog, with their second child expected to arrive later this year.

August 26, 2024

SSgt Milton “Mick” F. Mahon Jr.  is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Mr. Mahon is a Community Readiness Consultant assigned to the Military & Family Readiness Center (M&FRC), at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina. He manages and sustains readiness, retention, and work/life matters across the installation supporting a total force of over 90K Airmen, Sailors, Soldiers, Marines, Coast Guard, Guardians, civilians, dependents, and retirees in the local community. Mr. Mahon continuously serves as a positive contributor to the family support system and is instrumental in ensuring mission readiness for service members and their families.  

He joined the Air Force after attending Concord College, WV from 1982-1986 and has served the military and military community since 1987. He began his Air Force career as a Security Police/Law Enforcement Specialist, where he held diverse positions to include, Armorer, Elite Gate Guard, Flight Chief, Quality Control, Personnel Security, and Investigator. In 1996, he was selected for a special duty assignment as a Professional Military Education (PME) Instructor to teach emerging enlisted leaders topics on communication, military history, time management, conflict resolution, dress & appearance, and supervisory responsibilities.  In 2002, he was selected to become a First Sergeant, and acted as the key advisor to the commander on important topics such as unit readiness, health, morale, welfare, and quality of life issues.  Lastly, he finished his 24-year active-duty career as a Senior Enlisted Leader, and then immediately transitioned to become a government employee for the US Air Force. He has a combined Active Duty and Air Force civilian career of over 37 years, with almost 14 years as a Community Readiness Consultant at the M&FRC. His various military and civilian positions have spanned multiple career fields, across numerous installations and diverse locations. He has been recognized for outstanding performance with numerous military and civilian awards. 

Mr. Mahon is passionate about assisting the Veteran population. He attributes his success as a government employee to being surrounded and energized by a unified and passionate M&FRC team that is laser-focused on solving for “yes” when it comes to helping our active-duty members, spouses, families, and veterans across the globe with navigating the challenging dynamics of military life demands and the trials that follow post separation and retirement.    

September 3, 2024

Corporal Ralph D. Conte is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Corporal Ralph D. Conte, a native of North Bergen, New Jersey, was inducted into the United States Army on December 10, 1942. He served with valor in Company F, 301st Infantry Regiment, 94th Infantry Division. On September 8, 1944, he landed with his unit at Utah Beach and, shortly thereafter, was wounded by shrapnel on September 23, 1944. For his injuries, he was awarded the Purple Heart on September 26, 1944.

Corporal Conte's heroism on February 21, 1945, near Freudenburg, Germany, earned him the Bronze Star. Alongside Private First Class Aldor Cote, he bravely confronted an enemy strong point, resulting in the surrender of eighteen German troops and securing a vital supply route. Their courageous actions upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Army.

After being honorably discharged on December 20, 1945, Corporal Conte continued to lead a life that inspires all who meet him. His dedication to his country and comrades is commemorated at the Semper Fi Barn with a dog tag hung in his honor from the Ceiling of Remembrance.

The French Legion of Honor is the highest French order of merit for military and civil merits, established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802. This prestigious award is a testament to Corporal Conte's exceptional courage and enduring legacy.

The United States, its citizens, and fellow veterans are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifices that Corporal Conte made for his country and his buddies. His heroic actions will never be forgotten.

September 9, 2024

COL Byron Williams is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Raised in Springfield, South Carolina in Orangeburg County, G. Byron Williams graduated from Beaufort High School in 1987. He enlisted in the United States Army as a Private in 1989 as an Infantryman. He served in Germany with the 1-41st Infantry Regiment/2d Armored Division and held several positions such as saw gunner, grenadier, rifleman, and Bradley gunner. His unit was notified they were deploying in support of Operation Desert Shield/ Desert Storm as part of 2nd Armored Division (FWD) and VII Corps. As the Spearhead for VII Corps, and attached to 1st Infantry Division, Task Force 1-41 Infantry was the first coalition force to breach the Saudi Arabian border on February 15, 1991 and conduct ground combat operations in Iraq, engaging in direct and indirect fire fights. Byron fought in the Battle of 73 Easting and the Battle of Norfolk between Coalition armored forces and Iraqi armored forces.  The Battle of 73 Easting is the 4th largest tank battle in the history of the world. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge.

After leaving active duty, he attended the University of South Carolina and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science. In an effort to continue his military service, he enlisted in the South Carolina Army National Guard and was assigned to Company C, 1-118th Infantry Battalion in Walterboro, South Carolina. His Company Commander recognized his potential for increased responsibility as a commissioned Officer. He applied for and was accepted to attend the Palmetto Military Academy in 1992 and was commissioned as an Infantry Officer in 1993. 

In addition to his deployment in 1991, Byron served in support of Operation Noble Eagle with the 1-118th Infantry Battalion following the attacks of 9-11, as well as in Afghanistan with the 218th Brigade Combat Team from 2007-2008. He had numerous key military assignments including Company Commander, Battalion Commander, and Brigade Commander. In his last assignment, Byron served as Chief of Staff, Senior Guard Advisor or to the Commanding General of the United States Army Training Center (USATC) at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He retired from the South Carolina Army National Guard on September 5, 2023.  Byron graduated from the United States Army War College and attained two master's degrees. Byron was always mentoring young Officer's and NCO's alike. 

Byron is a true Citizen-Soldier. While serving his state and nation, he managed to have a successful civilian career working for Morgan Stanley. He has been with the company for over 28 years and is the Vice President, Financial Advisor and Senior Portfolio Manager for the Morgan Stanley in Columbia, South Carolina.  As busy as Byron was with a dual military and civilian career, he always made time for his family. He managed to attend family events as well as watching his kids in sports.

Even with a busy work and family schedule, Byron has managed to serve his local community. 
Byron is currently involved or has been involved the following:

• Member of the USC Veterans Alumni Council
• Prior member of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee 
• Current President of the Hampton’s Grant Homeowners Association
• Prior member of the Leadership Columbia Alumni Association Board
• Prior President and Board Member of the National Guard Association of South Carolina 

September 16, 2024

John William Marshall Jr. is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Colonel John William “Bones” Marshall, Jr. was born February 16th, 1948 in Washington, DC.  From childhood, his dream was to be a pilot. His Dad took him to countless airshows and airfields while growing up. He graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute (VA Tech) in 1970. He was a proud member of D Squadron, Corps of Cadets with a degree in Industrial Engineering, but more importantly, he was an AFROTC graduate headed to Flight School. Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT) was at Reese AFB, in Lubbock Texas. Upon graduation, he took the only combat fighter attack assignment available to his class.

His first operational assignment was in 1972 with the 8th SOS (A-37B) at Bien Hoa Air Base, Republic of Vietnam (RVN), where he flew 236 Close Air Support (CAS) combat missions in a 7-month tour. He was upgraded to a flight lead after 100 of those combat missions, which took less than three months. He then flew O-2A's with the 704th Tactical Air Support Squadron (TASS) at Shaw AFB, SC from 1972 to 1975, where he was an Instructor Pilot (IP) and Flight Examiner (SEFE). He was assigned to A-7D's with the 76th TFS in England AFB, Louisiana from 1975 to 1978, where he again was an IP and SEFE.

In 1978, after 8 years on Active Duty, he joined the 169th Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW), SC Air National Guard (ANG) at McEntire ANG Base, SC.  In 1979 he became an A-7D Fighter Weapons School graduate. He flew A-7D's (1978 to 1982), F-16A's (1982 to 1994), and F-16C Block 52 aircraft (1994 to 1997) as a Swamp Fox.  He was one of the first ANG instructors nationwide to convert to the F-16A. In 1991, he took the 157th Tactical Fighter Squadron (F-16A) to Desert Storm as the Squadron Commander (SQ/CC). He flew 40 combat missions while at Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia. He held fulltime positions with the South Carolina Air National Guard (SCANG) as an IP/SEFE, flying training officer, weapons officer, flight commander, air ops officer, SQ/CC, DCO and finally Wing Commander. He retired from the SCANG in 1997, after being the Wing Commander for 3 years. His favorite Swamp Fox deployments were to Panama, Norway and the old-fashioned summer camps at the Savannah, Georgia Flying Training Squadron (FTS).

Marshall’s Combat decorations include two Distinguished Flying Crosses, sixteen Air Medals and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star. He also served as the local President of the Columbia Chapter of the Air Force Association, as well as the President of the SC National Guard Association. He was given the Order of the Palmetto (the highest civilian honor) by the State of South Carolina.

John and his wife Debbie (CMSgt SCANG/Retired) have two daughters, Kristy and Julie, and three grandchildren, Laurel, Isabella and Joaquin.  Since his retirement from the SCANG, he has helped manage a stock brokerage company in Columbia, SC owned by another Swamp Fox pilot and friend, Rick "Gizmo" Mantei.

Marshall is also involved in the following groups:

• Active Member of DAV
• VVA
• NGAUS
• American Legion VFW
• Member of Silver Fox
• SCANG retired fighter pilots supporting Camp Cole

September 23, 2024

COL Christopher J. Williams is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Col. Christopher J. Williams USMC Retired, served in the Marine Corps for 32 years from 1989 to 2021, commanding every level from platoon to regimental command. His final post was as Chief of Staff for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Among his former duty assignments, Col. Williams served as Director of The College of Enlisted Military Education in Quantico VA, as Commanding Officer at The School of Infantry-West, and as J33 Director of Current Operations, United States Africa Command.

Col. Williams graduated with a Masters of Arts in National Security Studies from the US Naval War College. He obtained his B.A. in Finance from Western Michigan University. His decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit with two gold stars, the Meritorious Service Medal with two gold stars, and the Navy Commendation Medal.

CJ continues to serve his county and fellow Veterans. CJ is Director of the South Carolina Veteran's Business Outreach Center (VBOC) at the Tommy & Victoria School of Business at The Citadel, which is dedicated to assisting Veterans and their spouses who want to start or grow a business. In addition, CJ sits on the board of directors for the 501C3, Impact Charleston, founded by Mr. Tommy Baker and Medal of Honor Recipient and Major General James E. Livingston, USMC (Ret.) representing Veterans issues to reduce gun violence and foster economic vibrancy. CJ also serves on the board for Vantage Point Foundation, providing mental wellness education and opportunities for Veterans throughout South Carolina. Additionally, CJ volunteers his time to teach Impact X for Vets, an educational program that teaches how to make a profit while making a difference with Mr. Stewart Williams.

September 30, 2024

PFC Cecil Hart is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Private First Class Cecil C. Harte was born on January 31, 1925 in Union, SC to a farming family. He signed up for the U.S. Army at 18 years old and was inducted on April 2, 1943. PFC Harte was assigned to Company a 366 Medical Battalion and worked as an ambulance driver. PFC Harte fought in the Northern France campaign during D-Day. During his service in the military, he received the following awards: WWII Victory Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater with one Bronze Star and a Good Conduct Medal.

PFC Harte separated from the military on February 2, 1946, in Greensboro, NC, having served for 2 years 9 months and 24 days. After leaving the military, Harte and his brothers dropped the “e” at the end of their family name. Post-military, Hart lived and worked in Spartanburg and Beaufort with his wife Betty to whom he was married to for 68 years before her passing. They owned and operated three furniture stores until retirement. Hart and his wife were both active members at Fairforest Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Spartanburg, The Baptist Church of Beaufort, and First Baptist Church of Hilton Head. Hart currently attends The First Baptist Church of Hilton Head where he is a Life Deacon. Hart is 99 and still independent with a sharp mind.

October 7, 2024

Darrell Mantei Jr. is our newest Veteran of the Week!

Senior Airman Darrell Mantei Jr. served in the United States Air National Guard from 2000 to 2006, stationed at McEntire Air National Guard Base in South Carolina. As an F-16 Armament Systems Specialist, Mantei was responsible for loading and unloading missiles, bombs, and ammunition onto F-16 aircraft, and ensuring weapon functionality before takeoff. In 2003, he played a vital role in Operation Iraqi Freedom, supporting air and ground operations by preparing aircraft for combat missions.

Dedicated to his community, Darrell actively visits disabled veterans during the holiday season, bringing gifts and expressing gratitude for their service. He currently resides in Lexington, SC, with his wife, Caroline.

October 14, 2024

Tessa Spencer is our newest Veteran of the Week!

A Charleston native, Tessa Spencer is a 33-year media personality and Army Veteran. Spencer joined the Army Reserves while in college and served in the 3271st United States Army Hospital headquartered in Charleston. Her unit was called active duty and Spencer served in the first Gulf War.

Following her time in the military, Spencer's successful broadcast career includes stops across the Carolinas, Rhode Island, and Tennessee where she secured a spot on the NFL’s Tennessee Titans cheerleading team. Tessa has earned numerous industry recognitions for broadcast excellence and has been honored with a Certificate of Recognition from the office of SC Governor Henry McMaster, and proclamations from the South Carolina State Senate, State House and local government municipalities for her work in the community. She also received a proclamation from the City of Charleston proclaiming June 21st and “Tessa and Baby J Day” in honor of broadcast accomplishments and community service.

A seasoned voice over artist, Tessa has worked on nationally syndicated productions including Black Enterprise, Chicago’s Bud Billiken Parade, The Trumpet Awards, and Black College Quiz. She is currently the narrator of syndicated television series Mentoring Queens and America’s Black Forum airing on the FOX Soul television network, and she is the longtime television announcer of the nationally syndicated gospel Stellar Awards show.

Currently an evening news anchor at ABC News 4, Tessa has earned two Emmy nominations and is a two-time Radio Television Digital News Association of the Carolinas winner. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she also continues to work in radio weekdays as a midday radio personality on Cumulus radio station Magic 107.3.

Information in this article provided by ABC News 4 bio for Tessa Spencer.