Army Sergeant Kevin Gatson’s story began in Durant, Mississippi, where he was raised by his grandmother in a home filled with the love of a large, busy, tight knit family. The oldest of six sisters and four brothers, Gatson was very active as a child, playing football, baseball, and basketball and enjoying video games.
During his junior year of high school, Gatson made a decision that would shape the course of his life: he joined the Mississippi Army National Guard. In 2003, he enlisted in the Army as an active duty soldier, inspired by the long line of family members who had proudly worn the uniform before him. He served with the 329th FA and 1-320th FA, where he discovered a profound sense of brotherhood and purpose. Gatson poured himself into becoming the best soldier he could be, earning multiple Good Conduct Medals and rising to the role of Team Leader during his final deployment.
On July 12, 2010, while serving in Afghanistan, Gatson’s life changed in an instant when an improvised explosive device detonated beneath him. The explosion cost him half of his left leg and severely injured his right, beginning a long and grueling journey of surgeries and rehabilitation. Despite these difficulties, he transformed adversity into fuel and moved forward with courage.
Gatson is a devoted husband to Ratcheal and a loving father to Amya, Ka’Nayiah, Khaliah, Khloe, and Kevin Jr. He is eager and excited to watch them all grow up. In addition to being a loving father, he has found great happiness as the Captain of the USA Warriors Sled Hockey Team. Being a part of the Warriors is a powerful reminder that there are no limits to what he can achieve now and into the future. He lives by a simple creed: Always push forward and never quit.
Army Sergeant Kevin Gatson’s journey is one of service, resilience, and unwavering spirit. He is grateful for the support from Tunnel to Towers, which has provided a mental boost which in his words – “can’t really be described.”
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided Army Sergeant Kevin Gatson with a mortgage-free smart home through the Smart Home Program.