Jackie was drafted into the U.S. Army. After completing boot camp and advance training, Uncle Sam decided to send him on a tour to Southeast Asia, Vietnam or Nam, as they called it. His occupation was 11C, mortarman, small artillery assigned to the 362 Signal Company.

Jackie's tour of duty included Nha Trang, Da Lat, Cam Ranh Bay, rice patties and Charlie·. Jackie received the Army commendation medal for exceptionally meritorious service in support of military operations against communist aggression in the Republic of Vietnam.

Jackie says, "I learned lessons of courage, honor and what freedom means. Never take freedom for granted, it was paid with the greatest price; the lives of those who never returned home."

Jackie and his wife, Pauline, live in Sweetwater, TN. They have two children, a son, Brently, who is married to Ginger and a daughter, Pamela. They also have two adorable grandchildren, C'rez and Brielle, whom they cherish.

Jackie's hobbies include church activities, family outings and of course having fun with his grandchildren.

Jackie also says, "Let's remember to pray for the troops who are in battle today."