August - About

Sergeant First Class (Ret.)Martin BillupsChangingPeople’s Livesby Erin KellyLisa W. Cumming PhotographySergeant First Class Martin Billups knewfrom an early age what he wanted to be whenhe grew up. Unlike other youngsters who aspiredto be doctors, lawyers or veterinarians,he knew that he wanted to be a soldier in theUnited States Army.His reason for enlisting was simple. Someof the boys from his home town served in theArmy and came back with all kinds of stories– stories about places they went, people theymet, and sights that they had seen. Of course,job experience and earning a living were important,but most of all the young Virginianwanted to travel. And travel he did; the Kingand Queen County native spent 22 years in theArmy before retiring in 2006 with the rank ofSergeant First Class.Over the span of his Army career, Sgt. Billupsand his family lived all over the UnitedStates, from the south and westward to Texas,to points north of the Mason Dixon Line.He enjoyed many interesting experiences butadmits that it was tough – at times – movingaround so much.“Even though I love to travel, the Army hasa very big turnover rate,” Sgt. Billups explains.“No two assignments are ever the same. Everytime we moved we had to readjust all overagain and start over from square one, so thatwas hard. So you settle down and have a fewgood laughs, then it’s time to pack up againand move on.”While he was never called overseas to fightA Place You Can Call Home.Spacious Studio, 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments24 Hour Staff • Single Level AccommodationsMonth to Month ContractsShort Term Recuperative StaysWellness & Fitness ProgramsNEXT DOOR NEIGHBORSAUGUST2011 7