Looking into veterans like Cody, reminds us that the freedom we enjoy today comes from the courage and dedication of individuals who put service above self.

Cody graduated from Odessa High in 1997 and attended Marion Military Institute in Alabama before joining the Army in 1999.

After completing basic training and Infantry school at Fort Benning, Georgia, he was assigned to the 2nd Battalion 325 Airborne Infantry Regiment 82nd Airborne Division.

He deployed to Kosovo in 2001 for a peacekeeping mission and Iraq in 2003 for operation Iraqi freedom. After returning in 2004, Cody served as a recruiter here in Odessa, until his medical discharge in 2007.

Now living in Odessa, Cody works as a salesman for an oilfield supply company.

Beyond his military career, he continues to serve our community through his volunteer work at museums, including:

•82 Airborne Museum working on and maintaining their vehicle collection.
•Commemorative Air Force helping repair and maintain their historical aircraft.
•Museum of the American GI in College Station maintaining and repairing their tank collection, all while giving visitors rides in World War Two era tanks.

He has two sons — oldest is currently serving in the Army at Fort Bliss Tx, and also a Life Member of our post. The youngest is currently working on his commercial pilot’s license.