Hometown Hero

Frederic Albert Reed, Jr. served as a 19 Delta Cavalry Scout in the United States Army from 2005 to 2012 with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment out of Fort Hood, Texas. From 2007 to 2009, he deployed to Mosul, Iraq, as part of the Army’s final 15-month combat deployment. His platoon faced heavy daily fighting, with many members killed or wounded in action. The intensity of their battles, particularly at an outpost within the city of Mosul where Frederic was stationed, drew national attention from outlets such as Time Magazine and the Associated Press. 

After returning from combat, Frederic was diagnosed with PTSD and medically retired from the Army in 2012. Before transitioning out of service, he explored holistic wellness modalities through the Army’s “resent program,” completed an internship at the local VA hospital in Temple, Texas to better understand the VA system, and attended the Warrior Scholar Project at Yale University, a veteran academic bootcamp designed to support educational pursuits. 

Since leaving the Army, Frederic has dedicated his life to serving fellow veterans and the community. He currently serves as Mentor Coordinator and mentor for Northampton County’s Veterans Court, is a member of the Lehigh Valley Military Affairs Council, and is Vice Commander of the Veterans Brotherhood Lehigh Valley Chapter. In addition, he helps facilitate a trauma group for veterans and first responders every Wednesday in Bethlehem at the STR Building. 

Through these roles, Frederic has had a lasting impact on countless veterans, supporting those facing financial insecurity, assisting homeless veterans, and mentoring individuals living with PTSD. His dedication, leadership, and compassion continue to make a profound difference in the lives of others.