Lee graduated from Norfolk High School (Norfolk, NE) in 1966, then went to Universal Trade School in Omaha, Nebraska. Lee joined the Army after trade school.
While serviing in Vietnam, Lee earned an Army Commendation Medal with "V" (Valor) device. His Army Commendation Medal citation reads,
"For heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Heckman distinguished himself by heroism in action on 14 November 1968, while serving as an aerial observer during a combat mission in the Republic of Vietnam. When a helicopter was downed by enemy fire, Sergeant Heckman's aircraft immediately flew to the location of the crash. Upon spotting the lone surviving crew member hiding near a river, the pilot hovered his helicopter over the man's position as Sergeant Heckman placed a devastating volume of suppressive fire upon the enemy emplacements. The downed soldier was safely rescued as he clung to the helicopters skids and was flown to a friendly location. Sergeant Heckman's firepower covered the lift out of danger. His display of personal bravery and devotion to duty is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.""
Lee's medals/ribbons/badges include:
- Purple Heart Medal
- Air Medal
- Army Commendation Medal with "V" device
- Good Conduct Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Bronze Star
- Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device (1960)
- Expert Marksmanship Badge with Auto Rifle Bar and Machine Gun Bar
After his time in the Army, Lee had a career in auto body repair and towing services. Divorced now, Lee has 3 kids: Kevin, Neil, and Angela. Lee currently resides in Wisner, Nebraska.
