Shawn Jones was a paratrooper and instructor with the U.S. Army from 2001 until he received a medical discharge in 2012. As he rose to the rank of staff sergeant, Jones says his leadership gave him the soldiers who were at risk of being discharged.
“They gave him to me because they were going to kick him out,” he said.
His favorite memories of his service were when those soldiers changed their attitudes and climbed the ranks.
As for regrets, Jones says he learned the value of time. He didn’t accomplish some of his goals.
He now lives in Pittsburgh while attending gunsmith school. He still caries the pride of his country that was instilled in him.
“Your chest sticks out a little further … your back up straighter,” he said.
Jones was interviewed by CLCV team member and former U.S. Marine Joseph Cooper. Read more about Veterans' Stories: Project 412 and its participating team members.
