Ep. 28 Service Before Self, Eddie's American Story

Eddie Quimby was born into a family with a strong military legacy.  His father served in the army for 34 years and his mother for 20.  Eddie's mother's father served in WW2; his father's father served in the Korean War; and his great grandfather served in WW1.

At age 16, Eddie's father told him to join the army.  Eddie had no interest until he began researching on his own and discovered the army was the perfect training for his life long dream profession, law enforcement.

Merely a junior in high school, Eddie joined the army at 17 years old.  In the summer between his junior and senior year in high school, Eddie went to basic training in the reserve component.

At the tender age of 18, Eddie had his first deployment to Afghanistan from 2007-2008.  In the most unlikely of places, a country with people fighting for their freedom, Eddie found his freedom.  He enjoyed his new found freedom serving in the U.S. military.

Eddie's second deployment was from 2008-2009.  He grew especially close to his partner, Cheetah.  Eddie was the 1st reserve combat tracking dog handler to graduate from the program in 2008.  Cheetah was his right hand "Man."  It was especially hard to say goodbye when their time ended.  Eddie often wondered what became of Cheetah.

Eddie's third and final deployment was 2011-2012 in Afghanistan as a military police officer.

Eddie considers himself very blessed that through three deployments in some of the most dangerous parts of the world, he emerged unscathed.

His dream job of law enforcement changed, as he grew to love the military and the opportunities available in the U.S. army.

For the last 61/2 years, Eddie has spent his days as a recruiter.  He enjoys talking to people, and has managed to keep in touch with over 90% of his young recruits.

Eddie's service before self motto has led him to two worthwhile organizations.  He is a member of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Assn. (vets helping vets), and Heroes Sports (encouraging vets to participate in sports).

Recently Eddie embarked on the Baatan Memorial Death March.  This 26.2 march in April of 2021 entailed carrying 35 pounds on his back, commemorated the suffering and loss of the men during the infamous Baatan death march during WW2.  Money raised was donated to Heroes Sports.

Eddie is happily married, and is the father of four boys.  

 

 

 

 

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