A Legacy of Service How One Kentucky Guardsman Inspires Generations to Answer the Call

A Legacy of Service

How One Kentucky Guardsman Inspires Generations to Answer the Call

Rebecca Hemlock

The Ashland Beacon

In 1954, less than a decade after World War II ended, 18-year-old Gary Robinette raised his right hand and joined the Kentucky National Guard. He couldn't have known how much his decision would affect the rest of his life and the lives of his entire family. He simply wanted to serve his community and his country, build leadership skills, and be part of something bigger than himself. Little did he know that his decision would create a tradition that would carry on for generations.

His simple decision has rippled through his family in remarkable ways, particularly inspiring two of his grandchildren to forge their own paths of military and community service.

For Gary, the Kentucky National Guard represented the best of both worlds: a dual mission that meant serving the state during emergencies while remaining ready for federal military service. As he explained, “You're helping your neighbors, and you are staying trained and staying ready to help with whatever national crisis.”

Over 23 years, he witnessed firsthand just how critical that mission could be. His unit responded to floods, civil disturbances, and other emergencies, stepping up when communities needed help the most.

One assignment remains etched in his memory: a flood in Pike County that required creative problem-solving. After a late-night call, Gary and fellow soldiers climbed into the back of a 2.5-ton military truck. With roads blocked and conventional routes impassable, they navigated through cow pastures and private driveways and around homes to reach the affected area. When Gary stepped out in Pikeville, the floodwaters had receded, but knee-deep mud remained. His unit transported equipment and personnel, established water purification stations, and set up field kitchens for residents.

His military education was extensive. He completed infantry training at Fort Campbell and armor training at Fort Knox, where he qualified as an armor officer. He also attended Officer Candidate School and received officer training at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. In addition, he completed the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. These experiences brought him into contact with military personnel from South Korea, South Vietnam, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and Greece. While at Fort Belvoir, he also helped train South Korean soldiers in landmine warfare.

After 23 years of service, Gary retired from the National Guard in 1977 with the rank of major. His example influenced his grandchildren, including first cousins Brian and Brittney, who each found their own way to serve.

Brian joined the U.S. Army in 2005 at age 19. His family's military history and his grandfather's positive experiences were significant influences on his decision. “Our family history was a big part of my desire to serve something bigger than myself and be a part of a greater cause,” Brian stated.

Brittney, Brian's first cousin, joined the National Guard with the same desire to help her community and country that had inspired her grandfather. “Papaw always had something positive to say about how it changed his life and what it taught him, and I wanted to have that as well,” Brittney explained.

Interested in mechanics, Brittney planned to become a heavy diesel mechanic, qualifying to work on eight- and sixteen-wheel military trucks. She felt these skills would also help her serve her family farm and various community organizations.

She enjoyed basic training but was disappointed when a broken leg led to her medical separation before she could complete her intended career. Despite the different direction her service took, she remains proud of the experience and the six years she spent serving.

For Gary, watching his grandchildren follow in his footsteps has been deeply meaningful. He believes the National Guard offers young people valuable opportunities, including leadership development, practical training, community service, and educational benefits such as college tuition assistance. “When you go away, you learn a lot of leadership and many other things. I would recommend that to any young person.”

His own experience taught him the importance of commitment, preparation, and working with people from different backgrounds. It also showed him that military service affects more than the person in uniform. Families make sacrifices; employers play crucial roles, and communities depend on those willing to step forward.

Gary's 23 years of service helped shape his career and his family. Brian and Brittney carried that example into their own military experiences. Though their paths differed, all three shared a common influence: a family tradition built on service, dedication, and a willingness to serve others.