Derek Abbey | Part 1| USMC Communicator and F18 Aviator

Derek started life without a rudder or sail. A tragedy at age 13 left him yearning to find meaning - a pursuit into the Marine Corps filled that void. His career spanned multiple conflicts and MOS's but for Derek the meaning of serving his country was utilizing his best talents on the battlefield.

In part 1 of his story we hear about his early years in the Marine Corps as an enlisted Communicator, his journey to commissioned officer, and his time in the F-18 Hornet throughout Operation Iraqi Freedom.

This is his story.