The Mikeska Family

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Nathan Mikeska grew up watching action movies like Rambo and Rocky, and hearing stories from family members who served in the United States military, and knew he wanted to pay homage to his heroes by enlisting in the Air Force.

Mikeska began his military service in 2003. During his four years serving in the Air Force, he deployed to Iraq three times and New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. During a night airborne jump in Camp Blanding, Florida, he was injured when a sudden, strong gust of wind threw him towards the ground about 25 feet from the drop zone. The impact knocked the wind out of him, and he could hardly move. After receiving medical attention, Mikeska learned he suffered a severe back and shoulder injury that left him unable to participate in any airborne operations or physical training for the rest of his enlistment.

In addition to his physical injuries, Mikeska also suffers from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from combat experiences, including several close encounters with rocket and mortar explosions and detainee secure and transport detail while deployed in Iraq.

For his bravery and service to U.S. Air Force, Mikeska earned the Army parachutist badge, an Air Force Achievement Medal, Outstanding & Meritorious Unit Award, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon/Rifle and a Combat Readiness Medal, among other accolades.

Mikeska and his wife, Katherine, currently live in Savannah, Georgia, with their young daughter. As a family, the Mikeska’s enjoy boating, going to the beach, taking walks on nature trails and hosting Barbeques. The family hopes to relocate to Charleston, South Carolina, for easier access to medical appointments.

Operation FINALLY HOME and Lennar are thrilled to provide the Mikeska family with a personalized, mortgage-free home at Summers Corner in Summerville, South Carolina.