Leon Nathaniel Yates

Leon lived a life defined by service, intelligence, and a deep commitment to the people and causes he cared about. His journey in the military began early—at just 17 years old, when his mother signed the paperwork that started what would become a remarkable 29-year career in the United States Army. Inspired by his uncle Jack who served in Vietnam, he felt called to follow in those footsteps and dedicate his life to serving his country. Leon wanted to be an infantry soldier. However after taking the ASVAB, The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, he scored very highly and was assigned to artillery.

His enlisted assignments included the Lance Missile Battalions while stationed in Vicenza, Italy for 5 memorable years, and Ft. Sill, Oklahoma. It is also where he finished high school and was awarded the Master Missileman Badge, which he wore proudly. Those early experiences shaped the global perspective and discipline that would guide him throughout his career. Leon took night classes while on active duty in Lawton, OK and obtained his Associates of Science in General Studies, Cameron University (1979). He then took a 2 year leave from service to enter the senior ROTC program and earned his Bachelors of Art’s in Sociology degree as a ROTC Distinguished Military Graduate from Cameron University and received a Regular Army appointment in 1980. A few years later, Leon attended Webster University in Saint Louis, Missouri graduating in 1989 with a Master’s in Arts in Management.

Over the years, his service took him around the world and across the United States. He was stationed in South Korea for two tours, and also served at Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Fort Jackson, South Carolina; Fort Bragg, NC, Fort Leavenworth, KS where he attended Command and General Staff College (added below); attended ROTC Summer Camp at Fort Riley, Kansas. As the top graduate being the Marshall Award winner. While stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Leon attended Command General Staff College where he earned his second Master’s degree in Military Art’s and Science in 1993. Through dedication and leadership, he rose through the ranks and retired in 2002 as a Lieutenant Colonel, stationed at Fort Myer, VA and moved into his career at Defense Security Cooperation Agency. Leon served first in uniform as a LTC at DSCA, after retiring from active duty, his commitment to the military community never faded. He continued serving as a federal civilian employee at the Pentagon for 15 years as a GS-15, bringing his knowledge, experience, and steady leadership to the work he believed in.

Beyond his career, Leon was known for his sharp intelligence and quick wit. He loved to read and was an avid researcher. He had a generous heart and remained a steadfast supporter of the military and the people who serve. He helped spearhead an annual charity event at DSCA to raise funds for The Fisher House, which was near and dear to his heart.

Those who knew him will remember not only his accomplishments, but also his humor, kindness, and the deep care he showed for others. His life was one of dedication, purpose, and quiet strength, and his legacy of service will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Leon leaves behind his wife, Lisa Yates, Mother: Mattie Ellis Drewry (Joe-deceased) Father: Nathaniel Yates (deceased), daughter LaKeisha Yates, two step-daughter's, Macy Patterson (Mother: Lisa Yates) and Nicole Jones (Mother: Lula Yates, deceased). He has one granddaughter, Destinee Stringer, two grandsons, Christopher DeJon Penister and Dallas Patterson, three great grandchildren, Jamarian Stringer-Robinson, Zionnah Robinson, Sariiyah

Mitchell, one sister, Gwendolyn Glover (deceased), three brothers, Bobby Yates, Larry Yates (aka Stevie), Alfonso Diggs, along with numerous Aunts, Uncles, nieces/nephews and cousins.

Education:

Master of Military Arts and Science, US Army Command and General Staff College (1993); Master in Arts in Management, Webster University (1989); Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Cameron University (1980); Associate of Science in General Studies, Cameron University (1979); Defense Institute of Security Assistance Management (1998); Armed Forces Staff College (1995); Combined Arms and Service Staff School (CAS3)(1987); Planning, Programming and Budget Execution Systems (1984); US Army Field Artillery Officers’ Basic and Advanced Courses (1980, 1985).

Decorations, Medals, Badges, Citations and Campaign Ribbons Awarded: Defense Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Award) Meritorious Service Medal, (2nd Award) Joint Service Commendation Medal (2nd Award) Army Commendation Medal, (3rd Award) Army Achievement Medal (2nd Award) Army Superior Unit Award, Army Good Conduct Medal (2nd Award) National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award) Noncommissioned Officer's Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon Overseas Service Ribbon (4th Award) Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge, President Clinton Administration Transition Award, 2001; ROTC Distinguished Military Graduate, 1980; Who’s Who in American Universities and Colleges, 1980