Andrea Deaton enlisted in the Army National Guard in 2009. She was assigned to 184th ESC out of Laurel, Mississippi where she proceeded to spend several years working in their supply room while also earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Religion from the University of Southern Mississippi. When a PTSD diagnosis cut her ROTC journey short with a medical discharge, Andrea pursued supporting our warfighters as a civilian. Capitalizing on her logistical expertise, she spent 3 years in Afghanistan as a part of FGG LOGCAP IV, working alongside service members and U.S. allies from across the world.

Once Andrea returned stateside, she immediately moved to Dallas for work, where she experienced the difficulties of transitioning back to the civilian sector. After a couple of years, she finally made it home to the Mississippi Gulf Coast where she and her husband, Boyce, are now raising their young daughters. In their spare time, they are heavily involved in outreach programs, faith ministries, and community theater. After all, there is significant overlap between “I will always place the mission first,” and “the show must go on.”

Veteran reintegration, mental health awareness, and outreach are issues close to Andrea’s heart. She is honored to call 5th Squad home and to assist in providing practical and prompt support to those who have served. Drawing on her personal values and experiences, Andrea is committed to fostering and growing the 5th Squad presence on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.