Clarksville veteran finds new purpose in healthcare

After her service with the 801st Main Support Battalion, now the 801st Brigade Support Battalion, at Fort Campbell, Jennifer Beecham chose to stay in Clarksville, drawn by its strong community and proximity to her family in Antioch. “Wearing the Screaming Eagles patch was my goal,” she says. “Being close to my parents made it even more meaningful.” 

Her transition to civilian life was marked by hardship. Returning from deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom, she faced the devastating loss of her mother. Despite the emotional and financial struggles that followed, she stayed rooted in Clarksville, enrolled at Austin Peay State University and worked multiple jobs. “I was going to survive one way or another,” she recalls.  

That same determination led her to a career in healthcare with HCA Healthcare. Today, Jennifer serves as the Trauma Program Director at TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center, where she brings her leadership skills to a critical role in patient care and safety. “Veterans bring discipline, teamwork and accountability,” she says.  

Jennifer continues to support fellow veterans by recognizing their service with challenge coins and honoring them at events. “Raising your hand to serve is one of the most honorable things a person can do.” 

Her journey came full circle when her husband, also a veteran, was diagnosed with heart failure. “HCA Healthcare didn’t just give me a career–they gave me more time with the person I love.”  

As TriStar Health prepares to expand its footprint with the opening of TriStar Clarksville, Jennifer sees it as a vital addition for veterans, families, students and healthcare professionals. “It’s exactly what Clarksville needs.” 

From the battlefield to the bedside, Jennifer’s story is a powerful reminder that service doesn’t end with the uniform. It continues in every life she touches.