TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO-WAWV)– Most of our Hometown Heroes are veterans who served our nation during past wars. But today, we honor an active duty member of the U.S. Army.
After high school, Greg Bolin decided to enlist because he wanted some adventure. Greg grew up in West Terre Haute and graduated from West Vigo High School in 2018. He says he was always interested in the military and participated in JROTC.. where he was inspired by retired Sgt. Major John Kellums. So, it was pretty easy decision to sign up.
“I was very proud of myself because both of my grandpa’s served, one in the Navy and one in the Army,” said Bolin.
He did his basic training in Missouri at Ft. Leonard Wood. His next stop was Fort Hood in Texas and for three years he trained on a Bradley fighting vehicle. South Korea was his next destination. He enjoyed the culture and the friends he made overseas.
The mission in Korea was one of being prepared. There are tensions between the North and the South and Greg says the military is ready for anything.
“We were ready to go at any moment if something did go down,” said Bolin.
He was in Korea for two year, then it was back to Fort Hood where he re-enlisted and is now
serving back at Fort Leonard Wood.
At Fort Leonard Wood he switched from the Bradley to a 1 1 3 which is a tank without a turret. But it does have a 50 caliber and he’s a driver.
Over a year ago, he married Samantha. They knew each other in high school but didn’t date although Samantha has a memory of him that brings a smile to her face.
“He picked on me,” said Samantha Bolin.
Another adventure is on the way for Greg and Samantha with the upcoming birth a little girl they will name Lillian Jane.
Both say they enjoy the military life… and Samantha says her brother plans to join the Air Fore
and he was inspired in part by Greg.
“They have talked about Greg’s experience. It is rewarding knowing that you husband is serving the country that he loves, said Samantha.
Greg says the military is a good idea, especially if a young person is not quite sure what they
want to do after high school.
“i think it’s an adventure of a a lifetime. You get to meet people from different walks of life and I have friends who I’ll have for the rest of my life,” said Bolin.
