American Legion Beaufort Post 207 brings you Paul Patterson, 76, who joined the United States Marine Corps in Orlando, Fla., in 1967. After Boot Camp at Parris Island and Infantry training at Camp Lejeune, he was assigned to the USS Guam (LPH-9), which underwent refresher training in the Caribbean. Upon arrival back in Norfolk, Va., he was detached and sent to Vietnam, first to Da Nang and later to Chu Lai, from which he served patrolling in the field during the Tet Offensive. He then agreed to serve another tour in Vietnam; first continuing patrols, then he was assigned to motor transport duties. He returned from Vietnam to duty at Parris Island in motor transport and as a rifle range instructor. He separated in 1970 but re-enlisted in 1972 to again serve at Parris Island. He separated again in 1974 as a Sergeant and began a 32-year career with the U.S. Post Office in Beaufort. Later he took a job in Iraq handling the mail arriving in Baghdad for U.S. service members serving in-country. Today, he volunteers with community service projects handled by the men’s ministry at Cornerstone Christian Church.
Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207. For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.
