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SPC Taylor, a 2008 graduate of Palestine High School, joined the US Army in 2008. He received his basic combat training at Ft. Knox, Kentucky and then went for his Advanced Individual Training as a Combat Medic at Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. In early 2009, SPC Taylor was deployed to Mosul, Iraq. During his deployment he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal and The Order of The Spur along with his Combat Medic Badge.
Early this year, SPC Taylor was deployed to Iraq for a second time where he has gone above and beyond the call of duty. During his deployment, he requested that family and friends send small soaps and shampoos. SPC Taylor, together with other Medics in his unit, then distributed these items to children in Iraq.
After an extended absence, SPC Taylor began the long trip home. He arrived in Ft. Hood on December 16, and has finally made it home today to celebrate the holiday surrounded by family and friends.
Scherie Johnson, SPC Taylor’s mother, placed a banner outside her home to welcome him and to express the gratitude she feels. With a voice full of emotion, she describes his homecoming as, “The best Christmas present I’ve ever had.”
After he completes his contract with the Army this summer, SPC Taylor will begin his college education with the goal of receiving his degree in Nursing. For now, however, SPC Taylor will have the gift of enjoying the holiday season with family and friends who love him.
KYYK would like to wish a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to this special family, and to all other service members who continue to sacrifice so selflessly for our country!
