Wounded Warrior Allen Askew Continues Family Traditions

Wounded Warrior Fellow Allen Askew.

Two generations of family tradition all but ensured Allen Askew was going to serve his country in the military.
Askew, 31, is a third generation soldier, but he is the first in one respect. He’s the first in his family lineage to reach the rank of lieutenant.

“I’m proud of being the first, but I know that I wouldn’t be where I am without them,” Askew said.

Askew, a district representative for Rep. Lynn Jenkins, is a fellow in the Wounded Warrior program. The program was established to create fellowships that provide employment opportunities for wounded or disabled veterans within the House.

Askew grew up admiring his father and grandfather for the hard work they put into taking care of their families.

Today, he has a family of his own. His daughter Rebekah is 8 years old, while his son Corbin is 2.

“My kids are the reason why I do everything that I do,” Askew said.

After graduating from Wentworth Military Academy in 1998, Askew was commissioned into the Army as a 2nd lieutenant. In 2004 he was promoted to the rank of 1st lieutenant.

In 2007, Askew took command of the Warriors Training Unit at Fort Riley, which helps soldiers whose medical conditions don’t allow them to fulfill their duties. The goal is to help soldiers work towards recovery in order to return to duty or transition into civilian life.

Askew himself medically retired from the Army in June, but that doesn't mean he is off duty.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been taking care of soldiers, and that is what I will continue doing.” Askew said.