Beaufort’s Fernando Roldan, 68, joined the Unites States Army in Newark, N.J., in 1975. After basic training at Fort Knox, Ky., he trained at Fort Gordon as a communications specialist. His first duty station was Fort Hood, Texas, followed by duty at Fort Davis, Panama, during which he was awarded the Soldier’s Medal for heroism not involving combat.
He was next assigned to Fort Ritchie, Md., from which he was detailed to Forts Monroe, Eustis, AP Hill, Jackson, Sheridan, Benning and Knox, and to White Sands, N.M. Next was overseas duty in Germany near Stuttgart. Following that tour, he was sent to Fort Huachuca, N.M., from which he deployed during Operations Desert Shield and Storm to Saudi Arabia and on into Iraq, where he earned the Bronze Star. Later he deployed to Somalia.
He retired in 1995 after 20 years as a Staff Sergeant and moved to Beaufort. He is a Life Member of the VFW, DAV and AMVETS.
Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207. For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.
