United States Marine Corps Corporal and Scott County Sheriff’s Deputy Jaime Morales was born in Colombia and grew up in Florida. His childhood was hectic, albeit fun, as he enjoyed video games, sports, and cars.
Morales enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2011 because of his desire to help people and to provide a sense of financial stability for himself. Morales began his career serving with Bridge Company and also found time to become a rescue swimmer and a black belt during his time of service. After Morales’ time with the Marines was complete, he began a new journey as a Deputy with the Scott County Sheriff’s Department.
On September 11th, 2018, Morales responded to a report of a suspected serial bank robber parked at a Scott County rest stop. Shots were fired upon his arrival and Morales was caught on the wrong end of a stray bullet from another police officer. He was shot in the back which resulted in an injury to his T1 spinal nerve, ultimately leaving him with paraplegia. The road to recovery was lengthy and painful for Morales but that did not stop him from overcoming the obstacles he faced.
Morales currently resides in Georgetown, Kentucky where he enjoys Olympic Shooting and playing video games in his free time. Additionally, he is involved and well-known in his community. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation is assisting Morales in regaining his day-to-day independence by providing him with a mortgage free, specially adapted Smart Home that has been built to meet his specific needs. He is grateful for the gift of accessibility and comfort within his own home. Finally, United States Marine Corps Corporal and Scott County Sheriff’s Deputy Jaime Morales would like others to know to never give up.