BRIDGET P LIGHTBOURNE

Bridget Pamela Lightbourne was born on the beautiful island of Antigua in the West Indies. At age 7, she moved with her family to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands and later became a proud naturalized U.S. citizen at just 15 years old. Inspired by a deep sense of purpose—and later reaffirmed by the sight of her sister honored on Women Veterans Day 2023—Bridget knew that serving was her calling.

She joined the U.S. Army through the Delayed Entry Program at age 17 and officially entered active duty, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Bridget served with pride as a Chemical Operations Specialist, completing basic training at Fort McClellan, Alabama—one of the final all-women training units. Her career spanned two decades, with assignments across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Duty stations included Aberdeen Proving Ground, Germany (Coleman Barracks and Hanau), Fort Lee, Fort Riley, South Korea (Taegu), and Fort Huachuca, where she completed her military career in 1998.

Throughout her service, Bridget was recognized for her excellence with numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medals (4), Army Achievement Medals (3), Army Good Conduct Medals (6), National Defense Service Medal, and the Driver and Mechanic Badge with Driver-W Bar, among many others.

Following her military retirement, Bridget transitioned into civil service, joining the U.S. Postal Service in San Antonio, Texas, as a Mail Handler. She proudly served for 21 years before retiring in 2020. Her heart for service extended into ministry, where she has been actively involved since 2002. She is now an Ordained Minister, a member of Eph’phatha Christian Ministries House of Prayer Fellowship and continues her mission of compassion as a volunteer driver and meal deliverer with Meals on Wheels.

Bridget holds an Associate Degree in General Studies, graduating with honors. She is also a proud mother of two sons both married, each blessed with two daughters, making her a joyful and devoted grandmother.

Grounded in faith and driven by love, Bridget enjoys sharing the message of God, gardening, cooking, and giving back to her community. Her strength, humility, and unwavering commitment to service continue to inspire those around her.