Lindsey LaBelleWeb Editorial AssistantEmail
Sgt. Major James Bartkey was honored Saturday night before the Timberwolves took on the Phoenix Suns as part of Heroes United, a program presented by the Timberwolves FastBreak Foundation and Roger and Nancy McCabe that recognizes Minnesota troops for their dedication and service.
Wolves assistant coach, T.R. Dunn presented Bartkey with a personalized jersey before the matchup.
“I think it’s humbling,” Bartkey said after receiving his jersey. “We’re just out there doing our job.”
Bartkey is a member of the Minnesota National Guard’s Charlie Company. In 1984, at the age of 17, he enlisted in the Signal Corps, which provides communications for the military. He deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2009 and currently serves as the Operations Sgt. Major in the Signal Section.
While Bartkey has had plenty of experience serving his country, coming home isn’t always easy.
“Reintegrating back took longer than I thought it was going to take,” Bartkey said. “It was harder than I thought it was going to be.”
Luckily, he’s got his family for support. Spending time with them was a major 2012 highlight for Bartkey. They spend their summers camping and enjoying the outdoors, and as for the colder parts of the year, togetherness is enough no matter where they are.