Allen West
Allen West: A Life of Service and Leadership
Full Name and Common Aliases
Allen Bernard West was born on February 7, 1961, in Atlanta, Georgia.
Birth and Death Dates
February 7, 1961 - Present (no known date of death)
Nationality and Profession(s)
American; Former Army Officer, U.S. Representative
Early Life and Background
Allen West grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, the second of five children to Esther and Colonel West, a career military officer. His family moved frequently during his childhood due to his father's assignments around the world, exposing Allen to various cultures and ways of life from an early age. This experience instilled in him a strong sense of duty, discipline, and service, shaping his future path.
West attended T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where he played football and baseball. He later earned a Bachelor's degree in social science from the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1983 as a distinguished honor graduate. After completing the Army Ranger School, he was commissioned as an infantry officer.
Major Accomplishments
West served in the U.S. Army for over 22 years, earning two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star Medal during his deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2008, he retired from active duty with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. West's military service was marked by bravery and leadership, setting him apart as an exceptional officer.
In politics, West represented Florida's 22nd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2013. He served on several committees, including Armed Services, Foreign Affairs, and Homeland Security, and earned a reputation for his conservative values and tough stance on issues like national security and fiscal responsibility.
Notable Works or Actions
As a politician, West was known for introducing the "Cut, Cap, Balance" bill in 2011, which aimed to reduce government spending and balance the budget. He also advocated for the repeal of the 17th Amendment, which provides direct election of Senators by the people rather than through state legislatures.
West's military service took him on numerous deployments around the world, including a combat tour in Iraq during Operation Desert Storm. His experience in combat zones instilled in him a deep understanding of the sacrifices made by American soldiers and their families.
Impact and Legacy
Allen West's commitment to public service and leadership has left an indelible mark on his country. As a politician, he fought tirelessly for conservative values and accountability, inspiring loyalty among his constituents.
West's time in combat zones instilled in him a sense of responsibility towards those who serve. He established the Allen B. West Foundation, which provides educational support to underprivileged children and veterans' organizations.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Allen West is widely quoted for his unflinching commitment to conservative values and national security. His military background and leadership skills make him a respected voice on issues like defense and foreign policy. As a politician, he was known for his uncompromising stance on issues that matter most to him.
West's courage in combat and his unwavering dedication to service inspire countless individuals who seek to follow in his footsteps. His legacy as a soldier, statesman, and leader continues to resonate with people across America, reminding them of the importance of duty, honor, and country.
Quotes by Allen West
Allen West's insights on:
I believe there’s about 78 to 81 members of the Democrat Party who are members of the Communist Party. It’s called the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
I think that Governor Romney needs to talk about the fact that what he tried to do in the state of Massachusetts was him seeing what could be best for his state, but maybe it didn’t work out as well.
No one talked about the fact that in this year under the Obama administration you’ve seen the highest casualties in Afghanistan. And the fact that it took him almost 90 days to figure out what his strategy is going to be was absolutely appalling.
Every year, thousands of Californians flee that populous paradise for tax-eased small government oasis of America’s red states.
Today’s endorsement by President Barack Obama of the creation of a Hamas-led Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders signals the most egregious foreign policy decision his administration has made to date.
I spent 22 years in the United States military, so I’m a pretty strategic level thinker.
Liberals worry that what’s best for the individual might not be better for the public at large. But that philosophy assumes something vicious about each and every one of us. It assumes we only care about ourselves.
Are we witnessing an Obama ‘Wag the Dog’ moment with Boko Haram in Nigeria? I say yes. Consider all the scandals facing the Obama administration, especially Benghazi and the Select Committee.