Although I classed us as being “poor”, my childhood and teen years had lessons learned daily. We were punished the old-fashioned way and was told you will never succeed if you don’t try. The tools to be successful were shown to us, but we never had the luxury to have them given to us.
First job delivering newspapers (13 or so) the hard way, on a bike. Then dishes/cooking at restaurants… U.S. Air Force to the rescue, with 2 siblings in the service it was a step out of what we called home and into adulthood. Three fantastic assignments, but enlisted life was not for me at that time of my life. I have no regrets and feel that any president should have some connection/time in the military if they are to be Commander in Chief. Could elaborate about the service, but was a learning point in life for sure. Did well most of the time with a few hiccups now and again. Married, had a child and divorced. It happens.
After the service I floated around trying to find myself. My military experience would help me but those positions were taken by people that had been there for many years. Liked restaurant work, but wasn’t going to retire at it. Construction, factory work, whatever made ends meet (barely), you name it I probably did it. Worked as a residential sanitary engineer (garbage man) in Florida and found out I enjoyed driving for a living. Put that with my gift of gab and preference to interact with people, route sales became my future. Pepsi, Coke, beer and dairy was the order, I think. Dairy had longer hours was more physical and paid the best. Ended up supervising and running a branch, then current relationship became more important than making a continuing mark on society. Finally got smart and stopped living for work and decided to work for a better living.
Currently retired and married to the most fantastic woman. She’s a little younger and still works to help build our future retirement together. So, this is a very brief summary of who I am — an everyday American who may be just crazy enough to believe, no, to know, that there are millions more just like me who can make real change happen.
Kerry B. Espy is an unknown, hardworking, retired everyday person - the kind of authentic American you'd pass on the street without a second glance. The one who has experienced and lived the life of the majority. But like millions of fed-up citizens across this nation, I'm determined to be the one crazy enough to stand up for real change. I'm the advocate who refuses to let the voice and will of the people get pushed aside any longer. I'm stepping forward as the accessible leader who will champion everyone who believes our country deserves better.
Other than that political spiel….. Born January 26,1961 in England the third child of Brooks L. Espy Sr. and Rose M. Espy, both citizens of the United States, therefore making myself a “natural-born” U.S. citizen. Will probably have to prove it to doubters. Brought up in Massachusetts, West Virginia, Florida and finally West Virginia again. Residing in SE Ohio, not in a gated community, just your everyday subdivision.
Typical upbringing for a below average class of Americans…. dad did shift work, mom stayed home and waited tables when we kids were older. We helped cook, clean, do dishes and chores before and after school. Had “jobs” on the weekend around the house to keep us busy and out of trouble (didn’t always work with my brother and I). Wore hand me downs from anywhere we could get them and bought clothes that were outdated from the discount racks. My brother and I mowed lawns and gave the money to our parents to “pay for the mower”. We bought it several times over. Got an allowance once, it was on the mantel and we paid for our mistakes…I.E. not putting clothes away, arguing and a dozen more infractions. I never came out with money left.
Moved from place to place, where rent was less expensive, until settling in Williamstown, West Virginia where I graduated, (five kids now). I was not at the top nor bottom of my class and due to the lack of any luxuries and subpar home life, was not particularly motivated. Played sports a little and although okay, was a bench warmer for the most part and not good enough for a career choice. Never thought college was an option (know different now) did have a nomination to the Naval Academy, which I did not pursue (another what if).
Who is Kerry B. Espy
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