In this recurring special feature, Nonahood News recognizes and honors those everyday heroes who have served or are currently serving our country and making a difference in our community. Those who reside in the Lake Nona and surrounding area are our Nona Heroes.

Reginald Adams, better known as Reggie, is a Florida boy, born and raised. He graduated high school in Tampa and now lives right outside of the Lake Nona area in Kissimmee. He’s lived in the area since his retirement from the military back in April 2016. Adams joined the Army when he was just 18 years old.

“Army was my branch of choice … at the time, I thought it was my best choice,” explained Adams. “I joined the military because I wanted to make a difference and I didn’t want to [just] talk about it, I wanted to do something about it.”

Adams spent nearly three decades serving our country at 27 years. The highest rank he achieved was First Sergeant (or an E8), and he continued to explain that he made Sergeant First Class (or an E7) after 21 years of service.

While serving, Adams was stationed in Fort Benning, Ga. (twice), Fort Bragg, N.C. (twice), Korea, and Fort Hood, Tex. He served in the first Gulf War and went to both Afghanistan and Iraq for two tours.

When asked what his most memorable moments were from serving, he reminisced on the roles he played and the impact it made. “I absolutely loved being a paratrooper and jumping out of planes and helicopters. I loved serving my soldiers and being a good example for them to emulate. I still get correspondence from some of them thanking me for my mentorship and leadership. That’s when I know all my sacrifices were worth it.”

Now that Adams is retired, his title has changed from First Sergeant to Chill Sergeant. He spends his days doing “as little as possible” and manages Chill Pop Lounge. He laughed as he thought about it and continued, “I’m helping my sister with her business because no one’s mad at you when you’re serving them Chill Pops.”  

If you would like to nominate someone for our next Nona Heroes feature, please send an email to nicole@nonahoodnews.com or complete the form here: nonahood.to/nonaheroes.