Professional Employment History:

United States Marine Corps, 34 years Active-Duty Chief Warrant Officer-5 – 1967- 2001

• • Special Designation as S. Marine “Gunner’\ Marine Corps Active Duty
  • Weapons Officer, 1^st Battalion, r11Marines, 151Marine Division, Marine

Expeditionary Forces at Twentynine Palms, CA, from August 1984 through October 2000

• Developed and coordinated 100 live fire training exercises, 30 of which were conducted at night
• Leadership of Weapons training Marines in his Battalion
• “Gunner” Lowery set up a fund to care for active duty Marines, 1973-1975, who needed help financially and replicated this service at 29 Palms Marine Base from 1981 After receiving financial help, they were referred to counselors who instructed them in financial management

Lowery Masonry and Construction Company – 200l•2012

• Owner and Training Officer for staff and workers in cons1ruction projects in the Tallahassee area responsible for the Medal of Honor Node in the Florida Capitol Courtyard
• Construction Project management, including building homes, high schools, churches, Assisted Living Facilities, and Hospitals
• Served as a mentor during the summer to high school students as apprentices so that they could learn a trade and have money for school supplies/needs

Advocacy on Behalf of Veterans:

Chief Warrant Officer Lowery is an exceptionally gifted and modest advocate for Veterans and Non-Veterans. His contributions are unprecedented in the quality and quantity of those who receive his time and work. It can be stated as a matter of record that this champion for humanity, regardless of diversity, cannot be matched. I have personally witnessed a level of love from his heart to further service those in despair. I can only attest to a fraction because his reach is farther and deeper that anyone could possibly record, without walking in his shoes. It would take weeks to capture, in writing, all of what this American Veteran has accomplished for others. More so it would easily exceed the I0-page requirement of this nomination. Some admirable attributes of this extraordinary soul are –

• Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 96 – In 2018, after Hurricane Michael demolished large areas across North Florida and South Georgia. Henry led the Chapter in delivering supplies such as water, food, and other essentials to include generators to communities that were hit hard by the Category 5 Chief Warrant Officer Lowery didn’t stop at only providing supplies; he sought out the emotional needs and financial needs of Veterans in despair and ensured that they were served through his vast resource network. Additionally, he worked as the coordinator for the Memorial and Veterans Day Parades for the Florida Capitol, all which were highly successful and represented the patriotic forces in unison for all services. He was the keynote speaker at the “National Vietnam War Veterans Day” ceremony on 29 March 2020.

• Marine Corps League Detachment #472 – For 10 years Gunner Lowery served in leadership positions to include Sergeant at Arms, Awards Chairman, and Fundraiser in support of Detachment obligations of service to Veterans in need. Gunner Lowery has represented the Marine Corp Veteran contingent as the “go to” Veteran for patriotic events, parades, funerals, color guard and ceremonies, which are numerous and time­ consuming requirements. 1bis no-nonsense, but compassionate Marine Veteran is ALWAYS at the ready to support and assist. To add to his lengthy resume of work, Henry additionally pays tribute countless Veterans who are near the end of life. He certainly leaves ”No Veteran Behind.” His tireless and noteworthy work earned him the title of Marine of the Year” for 2018 by the Tallahassee Democrat.

• Gunner Lowery was awarded the MCL Distinguished Service Medal, 2018, for outstanding performance of his He is a total team player, and always he sets the example for others to follow, demonstrating outstanding leadership

qualities while providing much needed emergency services to our disabled veterans and their families.

• In November 2020, Henry was the featured speaker at the Marine Corps Ball. For the past 5 years he helped plan and organize this event. He also helps set up and break down after the event when everyone else has gone home.

• Big Bend Hospice Valor Team-CWO-5 Lowery is a founding member and served with the Valor team for 7 Through Hospice the Valor Team, under the leadership of Henry, are notified cases when veterans are referred as they enter the last short journey of their lives. The Valor Team then contacts the veteran involved and schedules a visit with the veteran., his/her family to educate them about the services provided. The Valor Team ensures that the veteran can obtain all pertinent records needed to apply for veteran and family benefits. The Team presents the veteran with an American flag and thanks the veteran for his/her military service and contributions made to our country. CWO5 Lowery serves approximately 110 veterans and families annually. Henry has visited veterans in Jefferson, Madison, Taylor, Wakulla, Frankl Gadsden, Jackson, and Leon Counties. This is a volunteer program, and all expenses are borne by Henry. He has been repeatedly commended for his outstanding support to the families of our veterans who receive the support of the Valor Team. There is quite no reward like standing in front of a grieving family and them understanding that you are there for them during their time of sorrow. Ibis service is so necessary for Veterans at the end of life to know that there are folks like Gunner Lowery who care about them.

• American Legion Post 13 – CWO-5 Lowery’s knowledge and background make him an invaluable asset during the monthly Commanders Coalition of Veteran Service Organizations. Henry has been attending them since their inception around 2012. He attends to learn what events are happening in the area concerning veterans, he then reports to his Veterans Service Organizations and other local veteran’s organizations about upcoming It should be noted that Henry also distributes this information to Veteran groups in other locales and counties. His effort is so important for the collective collaboration of advocates and resource providers. He understands what makes and effective team on behalf of meeting Veterans’ needs.

• Tallahassee National Cemetery- Henry has worked closely with the administration of 1NC before it opened in 2015 and has served as Honor Guard for over 200 veteran funerals. He has held leadership positions as the first treasurer and presently sits on the support subcommittee. He helped create the Honor Guard. He works with the beautification committee, helping plan for the location of fences, trees, flowers, etc. which he physically helps to Recently a Purple Heart Monument became the first Monument dedicated at ‘INC. Henry helped with the selection site in which Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was the keynote speaker at the dedication ceremony. He participated in and helped plan, set up, and clean up at a recent Memorial Day service at the cemetery which US Congressman Neal Dunn attended and was the keynote speaker.

• AMVETS POST 1776 – Lowery serves a leadership position as the Judge Adjutant General of AMVETS Post 1776. Recently AMVETS installed a Carillon/Bell Tower, at the Tallahassee National Cemetery, Henry helped with the digging of the hole for the foundation. Once the Carillon was successfully installed, Henry and others returned to complete the foundation, and plant the CWO-5 Lowery helped plan, lead, and execute the dedication ceremony. His exceptionally cooperative spirit and extraordinary example for others inspires many other Veterans to mimic his leadership example.

• Assisting Handicap Veterans/persons• After retirement from active duty, Henry worked hard to support his church by cooking for events, setting up and breaking down tables and chairs, delivering food to members who could no longer travel on their He was recognized by his church family as hard working and religious who cared about others. Soon, word reached elderly military veterans in the community who could not pay for vital assistance such as roof repair, building wheelchair ramps for Veterans in need of mobility to their homes. /or needing a wheelchair ramp to be repaired or built. Unselfishly, Henry would travel at his own expense to survey the home, talk to the veteran and determine needs. He would acquire materials at no cost to the veteran from Lowes, Home Depot, or local churches. Henry unselfishly provided all labor. His ethical work is famously spoken of as he has served Veterans with handicap ramps and home repairs of Veterans’ homes in the North Florida counties of: Franklin, Wakulla, Gadsden, Leon, and Jefferson. His personal dedication and work continue to this day.

• Veteran Events Tallahassee (VetEventsTally) is the local organization who oversees the Memorial Day and Veterans Day Parade and other Veteran events. Henry has volunteered to ensure success of the events for many years. Overseeing the reviewing stand; he greets veterans and dignitaries, assists elderly veterans to their place and looks after their needs. He uses his own vehicle to place/pick up signs, advertising the Parade before and after the Parade so they could be used next year. The parade is normally attended by 10,000-plus citizens from all over the state and beyond. Chief Warrant Lowery is personally responsible for the region to view Veterans in all their glory, while educating the younger audience of their rich history.

• Memorials Location and Refurbishment – One example of the countless memorials that CWO-5 Lowery’s team has located, identified, and refurbished.is that of WWII IWO JIMA Hero, “Boots” Thomas. In preparation for Veterans Day October of 2020 it was discovered that the retaining wall around his Monticello, FL grave was damaged. Henry rallied his troops to repair destroyed portions of the retaining wall around “Boots” Thomas’ grave. Henry then began the process of cleaning and pulling weeds from the area to ensure that the grave was presentable for this distinguished WWII Hero. All expenses and time were by Mr. Lowery. This is one example of countless unidentified graves of Veterans who he bas located, cleaned, repaired, and contacted families to embrace the memory of their loved ones. Of note is the pride that LtGen Lawrence Snowd USMC, Iwo Jima hero and 2014 FVHOF Inductee expressed for this single action. And further testament is that the North Florida/ South Georgia VA Clinic is now named after ··Boots Thomas.”

• Honoring Vietnam Veterans memorials ofNorth Florida and South Georgia warriors who gave their lives in Vietnam. Again he, with his loyal team of patriots clean the graves, leave an American Flag and a “Hero Rock” for relatives to A salute of respect and honor is provided for the deceased. Henry gets young people in attendance and involved in the ceremony. At a recent event honoring deceased in Tallahassee’s Roselawn Cemetery, Henry was observed talking to a veteran, talking to him about joining the Marine Co:rp League and/or Vietnam Veterans. Lowery keeps the flames burning for those who fought courageously for our nation. He also honors fallen heroes from Korea and Iraq, with wreath-laying and tributes with the families.

• The Tallahassee Senior Center honored Henry for his incredible work in the community for seniors in the Leon County and surrounding four counties. He was awarded the Silver Stars for his selfless dedication to others.

• At the most recent AMVETS meeting, He was filmed by the City of Tallahassee as he had been selected for his support and work for the Senior Center here in town.

• Ceremonial First Pitch – Chief Warrant Officer Lowery established, with the support of local high schools, to have a Veteran throw out the first pitch. Henry continues to instill patriotic pride in the up-and-coming generation through education of what a Veteran is and their part of Certainly, his program is topped off with the National Anthem to inspire the younger generation. The very young attendees have embraced the program.

• Relentless Pursuit to Honor the Fallen – In the case of Julius Augusta Mitchell – In the 1960’s, both parents of Tallahassee citizen Julius A. Mitchell died while he was in high school. Julius was sent to Vietnam and in March of 1969 was KIA. His remains were returned, and he was buried in Tallahassee Southside Cemetery without a grave marker. Henry gained permission and personally erected a sign to tell the story of At the emotional dedication ceremony tears were shed by relatives, and citizens that did not know Julius. Henry inspired students to hold an American Flag, in line with the Patriot Guard Riders. Due to Henry’s behest, Julius was recognized with honors, and a place to recognize his life.

Summary of Civic Activities and Contributions:

• Active Member of the Marine Corps League, MCL, Sergeant at Arms, Fundraiser
• Active Member of Military Officers Association of America, MOAA
• Active Member of AMVETS Post 1776, Judge Advocate, Fundraiser
• Active Member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 96, Veterans Day, and Memorial Day Parades Coordinator
• Active within his Church, Fundraising, Social Activities Coordinator, Mentor
• Leader in the Wreaths Across America effort since inception for five
• Leader in the Air Force Association, Bud West Chapter. Also serves as flag bearer and Chaplain
• Leader of Honor Flight since inception
• Leader of Dream Flight, Tallahassee, flying WWII, and Korean War Veterans in a Boeing Steerman Bi plane
• Leader in Homeless Veteran Stand downs, beginning 2013. Built Tent Camps and provided needed services of legal, food, claims, clothing, and counseling to countless Veterans and families
• Facilitator, Youth Programs, Tallahassee
• Counselor, Marine JROTC
• Leader in Toys for Tots Program
• Inspirational Keynote Speaker for Memorial, and Veterans Day events
• Speaker at Marine Corps Ball and numerous related events
• Program Manager for Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Annual de in Carrabelle, FL

Awards and Honors

• Hand-selected out of thousands of Veterans as the “Hometown Hero” for the Florida Capitol, Tallahassee Memorial Day Parade due to his impact in the Capitol for Veterans and Citizens
• Awarded the Distinguished Legion of Merit by the Commandant of the Marine Corps for 34 years of unprecedented service
• Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with l Star
• Combat Action Ribbons (3)
• Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Commendation (Civil Actions First Class Color with Palm)
• Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
• Meritorious Unit Commendation with 1 Star
• Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm
• Navy and Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal with I Star
• Drill Instructor Ribbon-USMC
• Rifle Expert Badge 3d Award, Pistol Expert Badge 2d Award
• Good Conduct Medal with 2 Stars
• Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 5 Stars
• National Defense Service Medal with l Star
• Marine Corps Recruiter Ribbon
• Kuwait Liberation Medal
• Southwest Asia Service Medal
• Humanitarian Service Medal
• Armed Force Expeditionary Medal
• Letter of Appreciation 2d Award-MCL Detachment 472
• Certificate of Commendation–MCL Detachment 472
• Exceptional Performance – Meritorious Mast–MCL Detachment 472
• Marine Corps League Detachment 472 “Marine of the Year” 2018
• Speaker for the Vietnam War Veterans Day at Tallahassee National Cemetery
• Speaker at the Marine Co1ps Ball

Nomination Narrative:

This quintessential Veteran Advocate is with.out peer. From CWO-5 Lowery’s meager beginnings to 33 years of extraordinary service, this Marine continues to wow the crowds with his positive, unrelenting work for others. Being the first African American to overcome some challenging times in his younger life arid then bounce back with positivity is commendable.

Henry was a victim of school segregation and had to travel 46 miles vs. 4 miles away to the closest school, every day to fit the system. A model of how you can give your all in war and return from Vietnam to be shunned, and rather than mire in self-pity, this incredible spirit pushed, and pushed hard to demonstrate that one can overcome adversity with an absolute winning spirit. He represents those admirable attributes that are so very rare. lbis Veteran has never complained about what was. He only deals in the betterment of Veterans, which extends to others.

As an inaugural Class of2013 inductee into the Florida Veterans Hall ofFatne I am captivated and humbled by the work of only one man, who so unselfishly gives of himself each and every day. He never stands in the limelight for successes he has created however, will always cast the spotlight on others. There is no monetary reward for what be does however, I know that the reward of his heart drives him to things that are not normally undertaken due to time commitment and financial expense. rve never had the pleasure of nominating such a qualified and deserving Veteran for induction into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fatne.

He served in all enlisted ranks from Private E-1 through E-8, then as Master Sergeant in the Infantry before he was selected to the rank of Warrant Officer with a special designation as a “Marine Gunner”, which is atnong the most special designations in the entire Marine Corps. A Marine Gunner is held in the highest esteem. A Gunner serves as a special advisor t.o an Infantry Battalion or Regimental Commander, as an advisor in infantry tactics and weapons employment. It is said that a Gunner can “walk on water.” Gunner Lowery has carried his premier performance into his Veteran life and in my estimation walks on water from the moment he awakens until he lays his bead down at the end of day. I have never seen him concede to defeat when it comes to giving. There is none better than this superstar.

Henry has a rich history of helping others through his early years. Time spent riding the bus enabled Henry to work with others with schoolwork and collaboration with others. In his senior year he was able to go t.o his local school, which became rich in sports and as being the 3rd oldest in a family of 23 he learned responsibility of helping raise his siblings. There is a hook waiting to he written on this Marine Veteran s life, but for this purpose the Hall of Fame would be richer by inducting this remarkable representation of what it represents. I am so elated that his family could not afford to send Henry to college because he has, through enlistment, service, and unsurpassed excellence to others become so rich in his offerings of time and passion.

This nomination is abbreviated in length due to requirements and has been cut down from about 20 pages to its current content of 8 pages. There is so much more! Henry’s courageous lifesaving, matter of record leadership in the field is carried on in his Veteran Advocacy by continuing to be a lifesaver of the countless who need his service now. There have been many who have said that they don’t know how they wouJd have made it without his guidance and hand up.

I am honored to consider CWO-5 Lowery as my brother. I stand tall when I am with him and although I have served in three wars and given 75 years of service to country and community, I still feel humbled by his relentless energy and hard work. He has been making Florida Veterans, and Floridians, and America better his entire life. I am amazed at the good this small-town veteran has accomplished in his lifetime. He is awe-inspiring by any measure.

Henry was known as a “Marine’s Marine” and now in retirement is known as a “Veteran’s Veteran.” He is the preeminent Citizen and Veteran. He served his fellow student his country, and now continues to serve veterans in need and their families. It bas and is his life’s mission. Henry’s life is compelling on any level to make a difference in all who meets him.

CWO-5 Lowery stands among the finest American Veterans I have ever known. Henry represents everything that a Hall of Fame Veteran should be. He walks the walk all the time especially when nobody is looking. That’s a huge quality for anyone. Who does that? A Veteran who deserves to be in the Florida Veterans Foundation Hall of Fame!

As a result of his caring attitude and love of his fellow veterans and their families, he has contributed to building a better life for many in the state of Florida. I, Major John L. Haynes, USMC (Ret.) will consider it an honor to stand with, and next to this great Florida and American veteran in the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame.

CWO-5 Henry Lowery is without equal in the quality and quantity of his daily labor of love, which is protecting the lives of Veterans. That protection is in the form of physical, health, honor, financial, and earned benefits. I would like to measure, in money, the relief that’s been provided by this Veteran Advocate. I believe that it’s easily portrayed as priceless by those who rely on his passion for them. I have silently stood by, watching this premier performer and am truly in awe of what Henry represents in life. There is no finer selection to the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2022 than CWO-5 Henry Lowery. He should be the committee’s number one choice, bar none. He has my most strongest personal recommendation for your selection.

Respectfully,
John L. Haynes, Major, USMC
Chairman Emeritus, Florida Veterans Foundation FVHOF Inaugural Class, 2013