Page 34 - Senior Link Magazine Fall 2025 - Online Magazine
P. 34
By LaVila Henry
or George Jackson, reminder of the courage and both ends of the process, the two
patriotism runs deeper commitment shared across cousins made it happen. George
Fthan duty—it’s a legacy. generations of Jackson men. soon found himself stationed at
A third-generation serviceman, Reese Air Force Base, where he
George grew up with a profound While his father hoped he would continued his military service until
sense of responsibility to uphold join the Air Force, George had he completed seven years in total,
his family’s military tradition. a different plan after attending achieving the rank of sergeant.
His father, Bertell A.W. Jackson Monterey High School in Lubbock.
Jr., served in World War II, and A year after graduation, he enlisted But while military service was a
his great grandfather also wore in the Marine Reserves. He served family duty, music was George’s
the uniform. From a young honorably for two and a half years lifelong passion. His musical
age, George was determined to while also attending college. But journey began at the age of six
continue that proud heritage. his journey didn’t stop there. with piano lessons. Though his
Inspired perhaps by his father’s early experience with the piano
One tangible piece of that heritage wishes and his own evolving wasn’t ideal—he didn’t take to his
was a symbol of American aspirations, George sought a new teacher—George didn’t let that
history—a 1911 Colt .45 caliber path. stop him. By sixth grade, he had
pistol. Originally issued during discovered the cello, and it quickly
World War I, the weapon had With determination and the became his voice. By seventh
been refurbished and reissued to support of his cousin, Bruce grade, he was already performing
George’s father for use in WWII. Barrier—who handled the with the Lubbock Symphony,
Later, it was passed down to paperwork on the Air Force side— a remarkable achievement for
George, becoming a treasured George initiated a transfer to the someone so young. He continued
Air Force Reserves. Working from
34 Lubbock Senior Link
