Local Boy Shines

By Staff
Over the past several years, the popularity of our nation's military has waned, especially among our youth.
As few as 50 years ago, a significant percentage of high school graduates enlisted in the military. Most were expected to do so. That's not the case any more.
While it certainly ranks among one of the most dangerous and intense jobs in the country, military service is among the most noble of professions.
Spec. Bradley Townsend, a 2002 Vina High School graduate, recently completed Ranger training and is stationed with C Company, 3rd Ranger Infantry Battalion at Ft. Benning, Ga.
That puts him among the most elite soldiers in the U.S. Army. Bradley was a member of the National Honor Society and received an associate degree in computer information systems at Northwest-Shoals in 2004 and transferred to the University of North Alabama to double major in history and political science. He graduated magna cum laude in May 2006.
He's a shining example of following your dreams and your heart. A young man with his intelligence had the world at his feet and could have chosen any career.
We thank his parents for supporting his decision to fight for freedom. The free world should feel a little bit safer knowing that a soldier of Spec. Bradley Townsend's caliber is standing watch.