SWEPCO MVERG honors a Marine Corps Vet

Justin Jackson at Turk rail unloading coal bunker.

(Story by Scott McCloud)

Justin Jackson, a coal handler at Southwestern Electric Power Company’s (SWEPCO) John W. Turk Jr. Power Plant at Fulton, Ark., joined the United States Marine Corps in 2004, serving one tour of duty in Iraq (Iraqi Freedom 2006) and two tours in Afghanistan through 2011 (Enduring Freedom.)

In action, Jackson was a driver and gunner on a MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected to withstand improvised explosive devices) vehicle; served as a ranking general’s personal security attachment; and worked as a motor transport instructor. He is a Combat Action Veteran and back stateside, he was an instructor and gunnery range coach. He was discharged in 2012 from the service.

“After 9-11, I wanted to serve and protect the security of American citizens,” said Jackson. “My grandpa fought in two wars (World War II and Korea), and I felt as a man it was my duty to take care of our country. I’m very proud to be a Marine. The military helped me in all aspects of my life.”

SWEPCO’s Military Veterans Employee Resource Group (MVERG) salutes Justin Jackson and all SWEPCO veterans.