A 20-year-old Franklin native is continuing the tradition of military service in family.
Around this time two years ago Nick Tillery would have been suiting up for his senior season on the Franklin High School basketball team. After a couple of years at Lincoln Land Community College and some long discussions with his brothers, Tillery is swapping his basketball jersey for a United States Air Force uniform.
Tillery is the youngest of four brothers, all of whom have taken the pledge to serve their country. Cory Tillery and Tanner Knox are both active in the Marines and Air Force, while Curtis Tillery, also with the Marines, is currently working a civilian job in Afghanistan.
Tillery says following the path his brothers put forth is “something he needed to do.”
“The honor of serving my country is something I can’t really put into words. It is an amazing feeling. Hopefully I get some knowledge that I can apply to a future job when I get out of the military,” says Tillery.
Tillery’s mother, Heather, couldn’t be more proud of what her son’s have accomplishment in the military and believes Nick will find the same success.
“I’m really glad he made this decision. I think it is a great opportunity for him or any young adult who doesn’t know what they want to do in their life. (My kids) are all in different parts of the world. It brings tears to my eyes to think how proud I am of them. I have seen them mature so much fast and be way more responsible.”
Tillery leaves for basic training on Tuesday and will be gone for two months. His next stop will be Biloxi, Mississippi, for two months of schooling.