DEVERSON LOCHARD

Gunny Sergeant, U.S. Marines
Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering from San Diego State University

Deverson’s 12-year military career came to a dramatic end when he was severely wounded by a rocket-propelled grenade during a deployment in Iraq.

After his recovery, he looked for a new goal for his post-military journey. In that effort, he worked closely with wounded military members at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. “I was inspired by the servicemen, who, despite life-changing injuries and after extensive treatment, were able to walk, run, swim, and do things that in everyday life we might take for granted,” he says.

After witnessing the dedication and tenacity of his fellow veterans, it did not take long for Deverson to decide he wanted to help those who had lost their limbs. His new mission was to contribute to the science of improving prosthetics.

Full of enthusiasm to accomplish his new goals, Deverson enrolled at San Diego State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. He soon realized that going to school while trying to provide for his young family would not be a simple task. With the help of his friend and current Sentinel Mike Bitner, Deverson turned to Sentinels of Freedom (SOF) for help.

SOF stepped up to help Deverson with his family’s day-to-day expenses and to provide guidance in reaching his goals. Deverson excelled at school and graduated with his degree in electrical engineering. He now has a position with Northrop Grumman and is closer than ever to his goal.

As Deverson explains, “Sentinels of Freedom really helped alleviate the stress that came with earning my degree. Their guidance and support gave me the peace of mind I needed to focus on my education.” Grateful for the help he has received, Deverson wants to pay it forward by providing current and future Sentinels with the tools they need to succeed.