Soldier’s Legacy Continued by Family
For many families, the legacy of military service is more than just a tradition; it’s a deeply ingrained part of their identity and a source of pride. Across the United States, several soldiers have followed in their family members’ footsteps, continuing the legacy of service and patriotism that has been passed down through generations.
Aims at Excellence
Keligh Daymon is a shining example of such dedication. As a third-generation commissioned officer, she follows the footsteps of her grandfather, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Roosevelt Daymon Sr., who became a fighter pilot during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Her father and uncle also served in the military, instilling in Keligh a strong sense of duty and selflessness. Growing up, Keligh was taught that the United States was the greatest country in the world, where anyone could achieve greatness despite their background. This inspired her to pursue a career in the military, trading law school for chemical defense.
Every Family Has Its Own Legacy
Another family with a rich military heritage is the Cho family. 1st Lt. Bradley Cho is a platoon leader at Company B, 2-501 General Support Aviation Battalion at Fort Bliss, Texas. His family’s dedication to service is evident; his father, retired Brig. Gen. John M. Cho, was the first active-duty Korean American to become a general. Bradley’s uncle and brother also serve in the Army, while his maternal grandfather served in the U.S. Air Force and great-uncle served in the U.S. Army. Their service means everything to Bradley; he graduated from the United States Military Academy in 2020 and is proud to be part of the team.
Women Pioneers in the Military
The journey of US Army Reserve Spc. Jillian Torres is particularly noteworthy. As the first female in her family to serve, Jillian breaks ground in more than one way. Coming from a long line of soldiers—both her grandfathers were veterans of WWII and the Korean War—Jillian’s decision to join was more about carrying on a family tradition than about challenging the norms. Growing up as an Army brat, she experienced diverse cultures and world histories firsthand. The policy changes allowing women into all military occupational specialties paved the way for Jillian to serve with pride and equality.
Unity in Tradition
For military families like the Daymons and Chos, serving together is not just about fulfilling duties but also about strengthening family bonds. Keligh’s uncle, Maj. Marshan Daymon, currently serving in Japan as a logistician, has experienced this unity firsthand. Family reunions might carry different traditions, but for the Daymons, serving in the military is their shared legacy. Maj. Marshan appreciates serving alongside his niece and acknowledges that their profession enhances their relationship, making it a unique experience they cherish deeply.
Legacy Lives On
The stories of these soldiers illustrate how deeply ingrained military service can be within families. Each individual has their own path to follow, but the common thread is a commitment to national service and family honor. The next generation is already being shaped by these strong role models, ensuring the legacy of military service continues to thrive and inspire future generations.
Soldiers like Keligh Daymon, Bradley Cho, and Jillian Torres not only honor their family’s legacy but also add new chapters to the rich storybook of American military history.
– Keligh Daymon: Continues her family’s tradition of military service, following in the footsteps of her grandfather, father, and uncle.
– Bradley Cho: Following his father’s and brother’s footsteps, Cho serves as a platoon leader in the aviation branch, cherishing the same values of service and teamwork.
– Jillian Torres: The first female in her family to serve, Torres breaks ground while continuing the family’s proud legacy of military service.
These stories highlight the diverse and yet deeply interconnected paths taken by individuals who choose to follow in their family’s footsteps, each contributing to a broader narrative of patriotism and duty.
