News Summary
The city of Beaufort recently honored its brave veterans from the U.S. Navy and Air National Guard. The celebration highlighted inspiring stories of service, showcasing the paths of several local heroes, including Suzanne DeGraw McMurray, Jay Kinsey, Obner Lindor, and Stephen Bennett. Each veteran shared their unique experiences, reflecting a deep commitment to serving their country and community, and inspiring future generations to carry on this legacy of bravery.
Beaufort Honors Veterans: Spotlight on Local Heroes from the U.S. Navy and Air National Guard
In the charming city of Beaufort, a heartfelt celebration took place recently as the community honored its veterans. The event brought together spirited stories of service, sacrifice, and determination, showcasing the incredible journeys of local heroes from both the U.S. Navy and Air National Guard.
From Mississippi to Military Glory: Suzanne DeGraw McMurray
Kicking things off is the inspiring tale of Suzanne DeGraw McMurray. At the age of 70, Suzanne’s military journey began in 1974 when she bravely enlisted in the Navy in Jackson, Mississippi. After completing Boot Camp and Personnelman specialty training in Orlando, she made waves at the Naval Construction Regiment (the Seabees) as one of the first enlisted women, where she proudly held the title of the seventh enlisted woman.
During her service, Suzanne took on crucial responsibilities, including preparing for tropical storms threatening the Gulfport area. Her dedication saw her named the Princess of the Seabee Ball, a role that highlighted her commitment to her fellow sailors and her community. After leaving the Navy in 1978 with the rank of Second Class Petty Officer, she embraced her post-military life with a wealth of experiences, from teaching roller skating to managing an HVAC company.
Though her husband Thomas, a distinguished Navy Seal and Coast Guard veteran, has since passed, Suzanne continues to honor their shared legacy of service. Since moving to Beaufort in 2000, her adventurous spirit and resilience still shine through.
Jay Kinsey’s Dynamic Navy Career
Next up is Jay Kinsey, a 64-year-old seasoned veteran who joined the Navy in Memphis after earning a degree in Secondary Education. His Navy life began in 1985, and with grit and determination, he completed Boot Camp and specialized training in Fire Controlman school.
Jay’s notable journey took him aboard the USS Radford, sailing around South America and later joining the pre-commissioning crew of the USS John C. Stennis, which embarked on an unforgettable world cruise. His expertise landed him at renowned naval instruction centers, and his service continued even after 9/11 when he deployed aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt. After retiring as a Chief Petty Officer in 2005, Jay transitioned to education, teaching electronics while also working at Perdue.
Obner Lindor: A Radiant Journey to Radiology
Moving on, 51-year-old Obner Lindor enlisted in the Navy in 2006 after completing Boot Camp. This energetic veteran attended hospital corpsman school, leading him to assignments that took him around the globe, including service in Kuwait and Afghanistan. His tenure at Naval Hospital Beaufort is especially noteworthy, showcasing his commitment to supporting fellow soldiers and their families.
Obner’s path through the Navy has allowed him to specialize in radiology, where he continues to make significant contributions. His dedication to the wellness of those around him sets a bright example for the Beaufort community.
Stephen Bennett: A Lifelong Commitment to Service
Finally, we have the remarkable Stephen Bennett, an 85-year-old veteran whose story began in 1958 when he enlisted in the Air National Guard while still in high school. After completing basic training, he jumped right into aircraft instrumentation, working on a variety of impressive aircraft over the decades.
Steve’s dedication led him to serve across the globe, from Okinawa to the bustling airbases of Vietnam. He eventually transitioned to a pastoral career, blending his love for service with spiritual mentorship, all while remaining part of the Maine Air National Guard. In 1992, he retired but continued his devotional work for over two decades. His recent move to Beaufort with his wife Jean signifies the start of another exciting chapter, filled with new community engagements.
The event in Beaufort served as a beautiful reminder of the sacrifices made by these local heroes. Each story reflects a deep-seated commitment to serving their country and community, inspiring younger generations to carry on the torch of bravery and service. Cheers to the veterans, past and present, who call Beaufort their home!
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Additional Resources
- Your Island News: Jay Kinsey
- Google Search: Jay Kinsey
- Your Island News: Obner Lindor
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obner Lindor
- Your Island News: Stephen Bennett
- Google News: Stephen Bennett
- Island Packet: Local News Article
- Google Scholar: Veterans Service
- Washington Daily News: John Carawan Holt
- Google Search: John Carawan Holt
