The Life of a Veteran and Enlistment of a Tomcat

The Life of a Veteran and Enlistment of a Tomcat

Gideon Thompson

The Ashland Beacon

When considering our futures as young adults, we find ourselves surrounded with choices that line up with who we are as people, matching our personalities and the skills that we build throughout schooling. The classmates that we passed by each day ventured into the ether of the workforce and higher education establishments across the globe. Driven by our imaginations, hopes, and understandings of the world around us, we move into adult life, grasping at reality with all that is provided to us. As we move on from high school, we watch as those we attended school with continue with their lives, growing and learning each day as we strive for the American dream. Whatever direction we take, there is always an outcome that is a part of that choice. Military service accounts for around 6% of post–high school employment, making the field a stable and admirable employment choice for growing young people in search of a new life. With several branches supporting the U.S. military, someone will find that they can serve in the air, on land, or in the sea, with recruiters available nationwide.

When approaching graduation, Steve Allen Lee of Ashland, Kentucky, was met with several opportunities, as he had choices of college, military, or the American workforce. With a heart made of gold, Steve very decisively enlisted in the United States Army. Enlisting in 2003, Steve went on to serve our country as a medic in the U.S. Army, protecting others as they served while fighting alongside them. Halfway through Steve’s military service at three years, he was deployed to Iraq as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division, spending 15 months in a foreign land away from his family and friends. Returning home in March 2008, Steve collected his memories and continued with his life here in the United States. Once Steve had settled back in with his life, he found himself working, waiting tables, and later moving into selling cars. He now serves our country further, aiding fellow members of the United States military in their recovery and lifelong medical needs with the VA Hospital of Huntington, West Virginia, as a Program Management Analyst.

At 40 years old, Steve spends his time outside of work with his family, helping in the community as support for the Ashland Middle School football team. Following in Steve’s footsteps is his son, whom he stands by through his journey with football, education, and growing up here in his hometown. Mr. Lee has found a path that has supported his family and allowed him to continue to serve others as he furthers his life as an Ashland Tomcat and proud resident of Ashland, Kentucky, growing older in a place he loves and serves. There is no end to the sacrifice and dedication Mr. Steve Allen Lee has contributed to his community, family, friends, and co-workers throughout the duration of his life. From the beginning to the very end, he is a man of his word and an honorable member of our community.