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<\/p>\nFrom honoring the flag under the Friday night lights to serving our country for nearly 25 years, Wheeling native Sergeant First Class John Lanos credits his Ohio Valley roots with his success.<\/p>\n
Sergeant First Class (SFC) John Lanos graduated Wheeling Park in 1982. He was a middle linebacker and kicker for the Patriot football squad. Additionally, he was a swimmer and track athlete, competing in the 400 and pole vault. As an athlete, Lanos was no stranger to risks, physical demands, pushing limits, and the camaraderie of a team. All of which would only be amplified in his Army career.<\/p>\n
SFC Lanos describes his Greek family foundation as key to his development. At the early age of 8, John was working alongside his mother and father in their family deli business, experiences which instilled a work ethic and a love of community that became integral to his life and service as well.<\/p>\n
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In 1983 SFC Lanos enlisted in the US Army, applying and completing Army Ranger school, an impressive feat as the acceptance rate to Ranger school is 60%. Ranger training required Lanos to tap into his physicality more than ever before, and he earned the title of Army Ranger, serving with the 3rd<\/sup> Ranger Battalion. Lanos would go on to become an Army Ranger Instructor at Camp Merril in Dahlonega, GA. He concluded his first enlistment after six years.<\/p>\n After completing his service as a Ranger, SFC John Lanos returned to civilian life. He bought his family\u2019s business and reconnected to his hometown and the local community. However, his service and duty were not over for good; after 13 years, SFC Lanos once again took up the call, this time training in civil affairs.<\/p>\n Sgt. Lanos completed four tours of duty, with the final one being in Iraq, spending 20 months in a combat zone from 2005 to 2007. He describes every day in the military as a challenge, but also an opportunity to apply problem-solving skills and tenacity, traits that were fostered in childhood, developed in high school athletics, and honed in the military.<\/p>\n Sgt. Lanos earned two Bronze Stars for combat from his tours in Iraq, honoring actions beyond the call of duty. Despite these impressive accolades, he describes humility as an important value in his life. \u201cWhatever I have done, I have been thankful for the people in my life who helped me get there,\u201d Sgt. Lanos explains.<\/p>\n Sgt. Lanos\u2019s commitment to people and their needs was apparent during his tours in Iraq where his unit established the first women\u2019s medical clinic in Iraq, just outside of Baghdad. He witnessed first-hand the suffering of the populations in the area and cites this accomplishment with his comrades as a highlight of his career.<\/p>\n Returning to Wheeling once again, Sgt. Lanos became a recruiter where he has been for the past 16 years. He uses his experiences and leadership style to motivate young people in the area who have a desire to serve our country. He challenges young men and women to face their future, \u201cYou will amaze yourself with what you can do, but you have to apply yourself, \u201cSFC Lanos states. And when faced with the inevitable challenges of life, SFC Lanos shares, \u201cNever quit when it\u2019s for real!\u201d Great advice from a former Ranger instructor and decorated veteran.<\/p>\n The Ohio Valley has a rich tradition of young men and women serving our country, as well as a history of impressive athletes. Sergeant First Class John Lanos is an excellent example of where the two merge, and our community is better for it. We at Ohio Valley Athletics express our sincere gratitude for his service and leadership.<\/p>\n To all past and present service members, Happy Veteran\u2019s Day!<\/p>\n If a career in the service is for you, visit your recruiter today.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.ovathletics.com\/home\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/LANOS-1-300x298.jpg\")
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