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SGM Howard Brown retires from Lake Marion High School JROTC Program

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The Lake Marion High School gymnasium was filled with heartfelt tributes and fond memories on July 5, 2024, as students, colleagues, and community members gathered to honor Sergeant Major (Ret.) Howard Brown on his retirement from the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program. The event, dubbed “SGM Howard Brown’s Day,” marked the end of a remarkable 31-year career at the school and a total of 57 years in military uniform.

The ceremony commenced with an entrance by the honoree and his family, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by the LMHS Color Guard. Reverend Francis Rivers then offered a prayer and blessing of the food. The program included reflections and tributes from various speakers, highlighting SGM Brown’s impact on both the school and the broader community.

Mayor Julia Nelson of Manning not only reflected on Brown’s extensive career, but his humility and love for his family. “Howard had an astonishing career of service to his country, community, and students,” Nelson said. “He commented on how watching his parents and their examples of decency, Christian stewardship, and giving molded him into the man he is today. He also publicly acknowledged and complimented his wife for her dedication and contributions to their family while he was away serving. He’s just an admirable man.”

Born in Paxville, in 1946, Brown was the ninth of 13 children. He credited his upbringing for his smooth transition to military life, attributing his work ethic and values to his father, Deacon Jack Brown. “On Father’s Day, I get to the church, and I always say, the man that’s down in that cemetery is the greatest man I’ve ever known. No ball players or nothing like that. My father was the greatest man I ever knew,” Brown once stated.

After graduating from Manning Training High School in 1964, Brown chose a military path over potential opportunities at West Point and other universities. His Army career began with an unexpected twist, as last-minute changes kept him from deployment to Vietnam and later the Persian Gulf War, leading his father to believe it was divine intervention.

Brown served 23 years in military intelligence, specializing in Morse Code, before retiring from the Army in 1992. His post-military career saw him become a cornerstone of the LMHS JROTC program. Despite initial skepticism about his ability to manage high school students, Brown’s people-centric leadership style, honed in the military, proved highly effective.

One of the highlights of his teaching career was sending 35 students to Washington, D.C., to serve as Senate Pages, a program facilitated by then-Senator Strom Thurmond. This initiative underscored Brown’s commitment to providing exceptional opportunities for his students.

Even in retirement, Brown’s influence remains strong. Former students frequently visit, including Kimberly Broughton, who recently presented Brown with photos commemorating her academic journey from high school graduation to earning her PhD.

As the event drew to a close, Brown reflected on his journey with characteristic humility. “I’m thinking about it,” he had previously said when asked about retirement, a testament to his unwavering dedication. Now, as he steps down, SGM Howard Brown leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and profound impact on countless young lives.

The community’s celebration of Brown’s career was not just a farewell but a tribute to a man whose life exemplified the highest ideals of service and commitment.

Photos courtesy of Mayor Julia Nelson.