Sterling on the Lake is a neighborhood known for its diverse community and rich history. One of its long-standing residents, Oliver McClellan, has not only contributed to this neighborhood but has also served our country with distinction. A Navy veteran, Oliver’s story is one of adventure, service, and a deep sense of pride in both his military and community life.

Oliver has called Sterling on the Lake home for the past 10 years. "I chose this neighborhood because of its peaceful surroundings and close-knit community," he explains. "It’s the perfect place to relax after years of travel and service."

But beyond the serene lakes and scenic trails, what Oliver values most about his neighborhood are the connections he’s built with his neighbors. "Sterling on the Lake has a welcoming, family-oriented feel. Over the years, I’ve made lifelong friends here, and it’s been a true joy to be a part of this community."

Oliver’s journey into the military was inspired by his father, who served in the Army during World War II and later in the Navy during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. "My father was stationed in Vietnam when I enlisted, and his service deeply influenced me. I felt a strong call to follow in his footsteps," says Oliver.

Enlisting in the Navy in 1968, Oliver served as an air traffic controller from 1968 to 1971. His first posting took him to the Great Lakes Naval Training Center for boot camp, and soon after, he trained in Brunswick, Georgia, before being stationed in Brunswick Naval Air Station in Maine. There, he was able to enjoy the rugged coastline and dense forests, which he describes as a "sportsman’s paradise."

His final posting was at Naval Air Station Adak in Alaska, an isolated station in the Aleutian Islands. "Adak was a deserted island except for the Navy," Oliver recalls. "There wasn’t much to do except explore the beautiful, rugged terrain, and of course, focus on my duties in the control tower."

For Oliver, the adventure was not just in the remote locations but in the unique history each place held. "Adak Island was heavily involved in the Pacific War during WWII, and many of the old installations were still intact. It was like stepping back in time," he shares. However, Oliver also recalls the need for caution, as some areas were still marked with active minefields from the war.

Oliver’s commitment to helping fellow veterans doesn’t end with his own service. He is a proud supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project, which provides support to veterans wounded in combat. "It's an organization that does great work for veterans who have sacrificed so much," he says.

For young people considering military service, Oliver has some simple but profound advice: "Be open to new things. The military will give you experiences and opportunities you can’t find anywhere else." His advice underscores the life-changing potential of military service, encouraging young people to embrace the adventure and the challenges that come with it.

Having served his country with honor, Oliver now enjoys a well-deserved retirement in Sterling on the Lake. His journey from Navy recruit to proud community member is a testament to his dedication, both to his country and to the neighbors he now calls friends.

Thank you, Oliver, for your service and for being a cherished part of our community!