Staff Sgt. Lonnie Parker

Staff Sgt. Lonnie Parker "exemplifies the concept of service before self," writes a Marine major at Camp Lejeune, N.C.

An instructor at the base's School of Infantry-East, Parker is known as a tough but fair teacher who makes sure his students master the skills they need to succeed in the Corps.

He is also a single parent and a dedicated volunteer, working for free with a youth wrestling program and a nearby Boy Scout troop.

Staff Sgt. "Parker travels the entire state of North Carolina selflessly coaching young men in wrestling," wrote one Marine officer. He acts not only as a coach, but as a positive role model for many young men who don't have fathers, because of military service or other reasons."