U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville has named U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sergeant Antonio Parker of Montgomery as his February “Veteran of the Month,” elevating Parker’s decades of service in uniform — and the way he’s continued serving others long after retirement.
Tuberville made the monthly recognition in a video statement praising Parker as an example of what it looks like to seize opportunity and turn it into a life of impact.
“I often say, ‘This country owes you one thing — and that’s an opportunity.’ But it’s up to you what you do with that opportunity,” Tuberville said. “No one demonstrates making the most of this opportunity better than Master Gunnery Sergeant Antonio Parker of Montgomery.”
Parker grew up in a small town in southern Virginia, where his mother emphasized service and education, tutoring those who struggled to read and serving through her church. Parker enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1981, one week after graduating from high school, as a way to pursue college and keep a promise he made to his mother.
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What began as an education pathway became a 28-year Marine Corps career that included more than ten deployments. Along the way, Parker earned five degrees focused on business and leadership.
After retiring from the military in 2009, Parker and his family put down deeper roots in the River Region. He and his wife, Jean — a Montgomery native — have been married for more than 30 years. Their son, Antwon, is a two-time University of Alabama graduate and is now pursuing a medical degree in Nashville.
Parker’s post-military mission has centered on community health and mentorship. A dedicated runner, he has completed 59 marathons and has worked to encourage healthier lifestyles across the Montgomery area. He’s also organized multiple community health events, including the “Fit-4-Life” 5K, with proceeds supporting education for those in need.
That commitment to health and service took on even deeper meaning after Parker was diagnosed with stage IV cancer while training for his 60th marathon. Years later, those close to him say he continues to make the most of every day — drawing strength from faith and family while still showing up for his community.
Beyond organized events, Parker is known for the quieter, day-to-day ways he serves: speaking with students across the Southeast, stepping in to help elderly neighbors with everything from mowing lawns to small repairs, and serving as a deacon at Maggie Street Missionary Baptist Church in Montgomery.
Tuberville’s office also shared praise from Officer Benjamin Duffy, who nicknamed Parker “Superman” and described him as “truly an exceptional man, great patriot, and an even better Alabamian!”
“It’s my honor to recognize Antonio Parker as the ‘February Veteran of the Month,’” Tuberville said.
Tuberville’s office accepts nominations from constituents for the Veteran of the Month program at [email protected]. Tuberville serves on the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
