SSgt. Craig Morgan, U.S. Army, Panama, Airborne

You may know him best as country music star Craig Morgan. But for 17 years, including 10 years on active duty, Craig Morgan Greer served our nation in the U.S. Army. He spent time with both the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions. Morgan is also a veteran of Operation Just Cause, the U.S. mission in Panama in December 1989.

In this edition of "Veterans Chronicles," Morgan shares why he joined the Army and his determination to serve a cause much bigger than himself. He takes us into his time as a long-range artillery observer, learning to jump or rappel out of an aircraft, and serving on clandestine missions.

He also talks a great deal about his service in Panama, including having to take on more responsibility when his supreior was shot, mistakenly jumping out of his helicopter 20 feet off the ground, and being in combat for the first time.

Then Morgan tells us about deciding between a very realistic track to become Sergeant Major of the Army and pursuing a country music career. He also shares how his music left a powerful impact on active duty forces and veterans - and actually helped to save lives.

Finally, Morgan ends the interview with a big announcement. Don't miss it!