Decorated Combat Veteran Opens Law Firm

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JOLIET, IL. — When Frankfort native Phil Lee was growing up, being a third generation Purple Heart recipient wasn’t something he’d ever thought he would become.

“Almost everyone in my family has served, and my dad was very proud of his service in Vietnam and of being a Purple Heart recipient. I knew that at some point I wanted to be lawyer, but not before serving in some capacity.” he said.

Lee eventually found himself leading troops as an Infantry platoon leader in rural Afghanistan. “Every day was different and somewhat surreal because you never knew what to expect. Some days were boring, and then things would pop-off.”

As a First Lieutenant with the Army’s 101st Airborne Division, Lee was awarded both a Purple Heart and Bronze Star. “The Taliban could be pretty relentless. We withstood frequent incoming mortar rounds on a daily basis. Some of us were injured but we all survived,” Lee said. “Any day on this side of the grass is a good day.”

Since transitioning from Active Duty to Reserves in 2018, Lee has returned to his native Will County where he has opened a law firm with long-time Joliet attorney Frank Andreano. “I’m so proud of Phil. He’s one of the hardest working and dedicated attorneys I have ever met. He’s a superstar” according to Andreano.

The firm concentrates on injury law and trucking accidents, which Lee feels his past experience gives him a unique insight. “It’s not just about fighting for others. I know what it’s like to have injuries and still need to press forward. The struggle is real” according to Lee.

Besides practicing law, Lee continues to serve in the Army Reserve, holding the rank of Captain. “I don’t do it for the money,” he said. “It’s something I do for our nation and to continue serving our nation and my community. It’s just another type of battlefield.”

When asked about what he learned from serving in combat Lee said, “There’s really a lot of unpack, but first and foremost it helped me understand my father better.” Lee’s father had a successful career as an F.B.I Agent, but passed away before Lee deployed to Afghanistan in 2014. “He didn’t much talk about Vietnam, which I now understand. It was a different generation.”

Lee plans to donate a portion of the firm’s profits to the Wounded Warrior Project and other veteran-based charities. “I don’t think people realize how many veterans need help. If I can practice law and help veterans, it’s a win-win.”

For more information, please contact:
Phillip D. Lee
58 N. Chicago Street, Suite 509
Joliet, IL 60432
Ph: 815-242-2000
Website: https://fightwithphil.com

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