Beaufort Celebrates Local Veteran: Nicholas Young
Nestled in the beautiful lowcountry of South Carolina, Beaufort is known for its rich history, stunning waterfront, and a community that cherishes its heroes. Recently, we had the privilege to learn about one such hero, Nicholas Young, a 37-year-old veteran who has served our country with honor and dedication.
A Journey Through the Ranks
Born in Warsaw, Indiana, Nicholas decided to join the United States Marine Corps back in 2006. His military journey began with Boot Camp in San Diego, where he paved the way toward a promising career in aviation. After completing his basic training, he continued to hone his skills during the Marine Corps Combat Training at Camp Pendleton. It wasn’t long before Nicholas received specialized training to become an ejection seat technician in beautiful Pensacola, Florida, and MCAS Cherry Point.
His talent did not go unnoticed—Nicholas served with a squadron at Cherry Point and completed three significant deployments. He traveled to the western Pacific twice and lent his expertise in the Middle East aboard impressive naval vessels, including the USS Essex (LHD-2), USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7), and USS Wasp (LHD-1). Each deployment presented its own unique challenges and triumphs, and Nicholas rose to every occasion.
A Step Towards New Horizons
After his time at Cherry Point, Nicholas continued his service at the Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth in Texas. There, he played a pivotal role in fielding the F-35 Lightning II, one of the most advanced stealth fighter aircraft in the world. He then made his way to MCAS Beaufort to be part of an F-35 squadron for three years, further enhancing his experience and expertise.
Subsequently, Nicholas served at MCAS Yuma, Arizona, working with the Operation and Test Squadron as the maintenance control chief. During his active duty, he didn’t just focus on his military career; he also took advantage of the GI Bill, earning a BS degree in Business Management. Showcasing his commitment to personal development, he balanced his studies with his demanding military obligations.
Homecoming and New Beginnings
In 2024, Nicholas retired with the rank of Gunnery Sergeant. Feeling a strong pull towards the coastal charm of Beaufort, he relocated here with his wife, Brianna, and their two daughters. This transition allowed Nicholas to not only start a new chapter for his family but also to give back to the community that welcomed him with open arms.
A New Role in the Community
Today, Nicholas is an agent with Century 21 Coastal Town Realty on Lady’s Island. He’s taken his experiences and lessons from the military and applied them to help others find their dream homes in the Beaufort area. It’s clear that his dedication to service extends beyond the uniform; now, he’s serving the local community in a whole new way.
As we celebrate heroes like Nicholas Young, it’s important to remember the sacrifices they make and the stories they carry. If you know a veteran who deserves recognition in our community, consider nominating them for the Veteran of the Week. You can reach out to the good folks at the American Legion Beaufort Post 207 for submissions!
With a spirit of gratitude and respect, let’s continue honoring our local veterans and learning from their incredible life journeys!
