JOPLIN, Mo. (NEXSTAR) – Driven by the legacy of his father, a pilot during World War II, Doug Lawson enlisted in the Navy Reserve amidst the Vietnam War turmoil, being deployed overseas in 1969.

“My father flew B-25 bombers in World War II,” Lawson shared in a recent conversation.

As the Vietnam War intensified, Lawson came to terms with his own path towards military service.

“With the draft in place and the war ongoing, I understood my turn was inevitable,” he reflected. “Several friends had joined the Naval Reserve, so I followed suit.”

Upon his return, Lawson pursued a degree in divinity and embarked on a new journey as a chaplain with the Navy.