Joe Tyson Sr. receives an award for a lifetime of service. Photo: Molly Smith

With over 60 years of dedication to his country and his community, local veteran Joe Tyson Sr. was honored by G.I. Joe’s Military “Living History” Museum.

G.I. Joe's Military " Living History" Museum, a project of Salute, honored Joe Tyson Sr. in February for his commitment to serving others. Their mission is to provide non-political education of the wars of the United States and to honor the men and women who have served this Country. 

“Even after his military service, he served as a teacher, he serviced the city as a council member,” said Carol Cantu. “He continued to serve.”

Born in 1944 in Beaufort, North Carolina, Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Joseph M. Tyson, Sr. has dedicated his life to serving others. In the Army, he earned the Silver Star, Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster. 

Since he retired from the military in 1993, he served as Senior Army Instructor at Kinston High School for 19 years. In 1998 he was named Kinston High School and Lenoir County Public Schools Teacher of The Year. 

“There is no greater honor than to be recognized for service to one's country and community,” said Tyson in his acceptance speech. 

Tyson attributes his ability to serve to his wife and family. His wife, Mildred had to be the leader of their family because he was deployed most of the time. When he was a teacher and a councilman, she provided him with the space needed to do his job. 

“In the military, we served our country for 24 years. As a teacher we served the children for almost 20 years,” said Tyson. As a member of the Kinston City Council we served the citizens of Kinston for about 20 years.”

Tyson believes that engaging in national and community service provided him with the opportunity to become an active member for his community and have a lasting positive impact on society at large. 

“Community service or volunteering enables us to acquire life skills and knowledge, as well as provide a service to those who need the most,” said Tyson.