By: Yvonne Dempsey
On June 1, the Alabama Veterans Museum & Archives welcomed its new director for his first official day of work. Recently retired USMC Gunnery Sergeant Joshua Dempsey was hired to lead the museum after the retirement of long-time director Sandra “Sandy” Thompson.
Joshua is familiar to many in the area having lived in Athens since he was 4 years old. He started school at Brookhill Elementary, then went to Athens Middle School, and graduated in 2006 from Athens High School. Quite unexpectedly, Joshua had to leave for boot camp just a couple of hours after graduation… no time for parties, no time for long good-byes, no time to enjoy some rest and fun before entering military life. He was supposed to have two weeks after graduation before reporting for boot camp, but you know how the military is, things are subject to change in the blink of an eye. A phone call from his recruiter the morning of graduation changed everything.
Twenty years later, finds Joshua living in Elkmont, AL, with his wife, Megan McGee Dempsey, and his son, Matthew. His daughter, Braileigh, attends college in N.M.; so he is intent on keeping our veterans’ legacy for these kids and others to come.
As the youngest of four boys, Joshua was used to the rough-and-tumble childhood that came from having older brothers. He has always been patriotic, even being born on the 4th of July! As his mom, I often recall how Joshua would answer when asked, “What are you going to be when you grow up?” His answer was always, “I’m gonna be a Marine!” And he did just that, and excelled at it.
After training at Camps Lejeune and Geiger, NC, Joshua went to Fort Leonard Wood, MO, where he earned his license as Engineer Equipment Operator. He was then stationed in Okinawa, Japan, and had missions in the Philippines. After this assignment, he returned to Camp Lejeune, NC, where he had several jobs, including what he calls his “best job” as combat instructor for the Combat Hunter Program. Joshua and his family moved to Hawaii which was such a wonderful place for them…and a great place for his dad and me to visit, several times! He next returned to Fort Leonard Wood where he served as Course Staff NCOIC for the Basic Engineer Equipment Operations Course. Of course, his military career included much more than can be listed here, but it all led to where he is today.
Now, Joshua is bringing that same passion and commitment to his job as museum director. He has volunteered at the museum over the years when he has been home and has some of his items on display. I asked him about his vision as museum director. “I look forward to continuing to build upon the great success that Sandy has had in growing this museum into what is has become and create a continuing legacy for our future generations. We cannot let the sacrifices of our brave veterans be forgotten. Our museum is a priceless reminder of what our country was built upon.”
Joshua is coming in with enthusiasm and has some ideas on how to market the museum, reach out to the public, develop events and programs showcasing our military history, and continue honoring our veterans. Joshua further explained, “Our history is more than a record of the past, it’s a gift to the future. By preserving and sharing the stories of those who came before us, we inspire future generations to learn, serve, and lead.” And that is what he believes and will strive for.
For upcoming events, please check our new Facebook page at Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives and Instagram at Alabama Veterans Museum.
By: Yvonne Dempsey
