Celebrating Veterans Day by honoring one of our own
Many businesses and schools close on Nov. 11 to observe Veterans Day. Union County Public Schools (UCPS) thanks all the veterans who have served the United States in the various military branches. Many of our staff members previously served in the military before coming to UCPS, including James Scotty Little, a lead custodian at Marvin Ridge Middle School.
Little served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1984 to 1989 as an infantryman, a role requiring high levels of fitness, mental toughness and tactical abilities.
"My uncle, Captain Julius E. McCoy, is a Marine and is retired now. He was the one who inspired me. When he came home from deployment in uniform, it made an impression. I wanted to be like him," said Little.
Little participated in his high school's Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program for three years. The experience increased his desire to join the military. He enlisted in the Marines under the delayed entry program during his junior year with his parents' consent. After graduation, he and a friend headed to boot camp. Due to the credits he earned from JROTC, Little entered as a private first class. He finished his basic training at Parris Island in Beaufort County, South Carolina.
"Boot camp was intense. They train leaders in the Marine Corp. Pretty much every job I've had has been in a supervisory role. Discipline, camaraderie and teamwork are skills you can take into any part of your life," said Little.
Little spoke about his travels, too.
"My very first duty station was in Sigonella, Italy. I was there for about 18 months. I loved it. I was able to travel throughout Europe. Then I returned to the States to Camp Pendleton in California. Later, I traveled to Panama for six months for jungle training. Then I was sent to Bridgeport, California, for mountain warfare training. I returned to Pendleton and then spent my last tour in Okinawa, Japan," said Little. "It provided an opportunity for me to learn about other cultures. I also learned new skills as I progressed."
After serving a four-year contract, Little wanted to start a family and did not re-enlist. He began his career at the North Carolina Department of Corrections, where he remained for 15 years, rising to the rank of captain. During Operation Desert Storm, he was recalled but did not have to deploy.
"I also worked as a K-9 Officer for the state of North Carolina for two years. These are great careers, but they can take a toll on the family. I had to make some decisions. I chose to do something else," said Little. "A friend of mine told me the school district was hiring. I thought, "Why not?," ten years later, here I am. Marvin Ridge Middle is the only school where I've ever worked. I love it here."
The school community loves him back. Students, staff and parents stop to speak with him and appreciate his presence. You can find Little problem-solving, directing traffic, stepping in to help with transitions and lunch and ensuring the overall appearance and condition of the school is top-notch. He takes great pride in his work and leads a team of five.
"Scotty steps in whenever he sees a need and never complains. His attitude and overall personality are friendly and welcoming. He works very hard to ensure we have everything we need. He is well-known and respected by parents," said Principal James Eversole. "He loves Mavs football and has been known to stop by Friday games. Everyone recognizes him."
Little has two daughters that graduated from Sun Valley High. Being a part of UCPS was another way for him to stay involved and connected with them. He also enjoys being around the students. Little hopes that his experience shows them that there are many career paths and that what matters the most is to take pride in it and do it well.
"I use many skills I learned in the Marines daily. Things like cleanliness, time management, leadership, communications, conflict resolution and work ethic are key to my role," said Little. "When students are in a clean environment, they want to be there. No one wants to be in a place that is dirty."
Little feels valued, which is why he looks forward to going to work each day. He said everyone treats him with respect and makes him feel as important as everyone else in the building.
"He goes above and beyond to ensure the quality of his work meets the required standard. Because he takes pride in his job, Mr. Little is often the first to get to work and the last to leave," said Juan Fernandez, the custodial services manager.
Little's two best friends served in the Marines with him and continued their careers in the military. Both are retired, and all three remain close. Veterans Day holds a lot of meaning for him.
"Veterans Day is a time to remember everyone who has served and is serving this country. I take pride in the time I served," said Little. "Here, at the school, they've made banners that the students have signed and have many ways they thank and recognize me. It makes me feel special. I would never exchange those memories from that time in my life."
11/08/2022