LTC (Ret) Jon Mckee: A Life of Service, Leadership, and Legacy

LTC(R) McKee grew up in an America vastly different from today’s, yet he saw beyond the barriers before him. He excelled academically and athletically at Virginia State College (now University), earning both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees while lettering in football, track, and baseball. A proud brother of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., he embodied achievement in every field of human endeavor.

His journey in uniform began with the draft, but he chose to stay—not out of obligation, but out of conviction. Over the course of three wars—World War II, Korea, and Vietnam—he stood on the front lines of history, leading Soldiers in combat and shaping the future of the U.S. Army. These experiences forged his values, deepened his understanding of leadership, and strengthened his belief in service before self.

LTC(R) McKee’s time in combat profoundly shaped his outlook on life. He has often reflected on moments that transformed him—moments of hardship, camaraderie, and triumph. His relationships with fellow Soldiers reinforced his belief in teamwork, resilience, and the power of collective strength. Through battle and beyond, he remained a steadfast leader, embodying the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.

Beyond the battlefield, LTC(R) McKee’s impact resonates through Virginia State University’s ROTC program, where his leadership ushered in a new era of excellence. Under his guidance, enrollment soared by more than 100 percent, and he commissioned over 260 officers—three of whom achieved the rank of General, including: • BG(R) Bertha Baxter – The first female Brigadier General in the Medical Service Corps • MG(R) Winfield – Former U.S. Army Cadet Command Commanding General • GEN(R) Dennis L. Via – Former Commanding General of Army Materiel Command, the first Black four-star general in that command’s history

LTC(R) McKee instilled in his cadets the values of discipline, leadership, and service, ensuring that the next generation of Army leaders carried forward a legacy of excellence. His lessons extended beyond military training—he taught young officers to lead with integrity, to face challenges with courage, and to serve with purpose.

Even in retirement, LTC(R) McKee continues to inspire. Over 66 years, he has raised more than $1 million for Virginia State University programs, proving that his dedication to service and education knows no bounds. His name is etched not only in the halls of The Virginia State University, but also in the Army ROTC Hall of Fame, where his legacy of leadership endures.

As we reflect on his life and lessons, LTC(R) McKee reminds us that the call to serve is greater than any individual challenge. His story is proof that, in America, opportunity exists for those who dare to seize it. To young leaders of today, he offers this advice:

“Lead with purpose. Serve with integrity. And never let adversity define your destiny—let it refine your greatness.”