Greg Sullivan

Greg Sullivan and my mother, Bonnie Reed.

Greg Allen Sullivan grew up the middle child of 4 boys and 1 girl. Randall Sullivan was the oldest, then Crystal Sullivan, next came Greg, then Johnathan and Douglas. His earliest memory is from his younger years when he was only about 4 years old. His older brother, Randy would hold onto Greg's arm and swing him around, letting go so he would slide on the grass.

The hardest part about having so many siblings was you were forced to share everything, even a bedroom. Greg and his family were not the richest group of people, but you would never know it. Greg's mother, Viola Sullivan, was a talented musician. She was able to play by ear, making some of her children inspired to follow in her footsteps and learn music, especially Greg and John. Greg was given her first guitar at age 12, but was never able to reach a level as experienced as her.

The Sullivan family moved from their hometown of Malvern, Iowa, when he was in 4th grade to live in Hooper, Nebraska. At age 17, Greg enlisted in the Navy with his parent's permission. He wanted to see the world and was eager to take the opportunity because at the time, little to no jobs were available. He began on as an airman, stationed near San Diego, California, working with the Navy's helicopters. Greg believes the hardest part about being in the Navy was was being away from his family and not seeing land for months at a time. When he got out of the Navy, he was a 3rd Class Petty Officer for the Search and Rescue team.

About 8 years ago, in 2004, Greg had back surgery to try and improve the pain he had but it didn't help the situation. He got to the point where he could not walk very before he had to stop and rest. He was diagnosed with peripheral artery disease and had stints put into some of his veins. At that time, he was also diagnosed with Factor 5 Liedens Disease and Buergers Disease, both circulatory disease.

Greg is my father and he has motivated me to go in the direction I am going. I am proud to call him my hero. He is a wonderful listener, always eager to help a friend with any situation. I would like to think that he is proud of me, too. Greg Allen Sullivan is my hero.