Published 10:08 am Monday, August 3, 2026 PEARL HARBOR, HAWAII — Gunnery Sgt. Travis Bridwell, a native of Thomasville, serves with 2nd Battalion/7th Marines, a light infantry battalion participating in the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in and around the Hawaiian Islands. Bridwell graduated from Thomas County Central High School in 2008 and is currently pursuing an associate degree in military science through Arizona State University. Bridwell joined the Marine Corps 15 years ago. “I joined the Marine Corps because of the long tradition of military service in my family,” Bridwell said. “Growing up around prior service members, I developed a deep respect for the values, discipline and commitment that come with serving. I knew from an early age that I wanted to be part of that legacy and continue the tradition.” The skills and values needed to succeed in the Marine Corps are similar to those found in Thomasville. “Growing up in south Georgia taught me the importance of working hard, staying humble and taking care of the people around me,” Bridwell said. “Those values have carried with me throughout my Marine Corps career. No matter where you come from, people respond to leaders who are genuine, work hard and always put the team before themselves.” Today, Bridwell serves as an infantry unit leader. As the world’s largest international maritime exercise, 31 nations, approximately 40 surface ships, five submarines, 14 national land forces, over 140 aircraft and…
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