Beaufort’s Philip Heim, 59, joined the United States Marine Corps in Vienna, Va., in 1982. After boot camp at Parris Island, he trained in Supply Administration before assignment to MCAS Cherry Point, from which he deployed to Honduras with a radar unit. His next assignment was on Okinawa, from which he deployed to Korea and the Philippines. Next was his first assignment in Beaufort at the Air Station, again with a radar unit.
He participated in recovery efforts after Hurricane Hugo, resulting in a Humanitarian Award. He then served at Fort Leavenworth, Kan., with the Marine Detachment at the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks housing prisoners from all the armed services. He then was assigned to support a medical battalion at Camp Lejeune. Next he was the lone Marine recruiter in Waterville, Maine. Back to Camp Lejeune, where he was an instructor at the supply school. His final assignment was at Parris Island, where he was in charge of issuing uniforms to recruits.
Heim retired in 2005 as a Master Sergeant with 23 years of active service. He then worked at Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation in Savannah for 14 years. He owned Beaufort Pics Gallery on Bay Street for 6 years. His wife, Susan, works with military families in early childhood development at Naval Hospital Beaufort.
Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 9. For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.
