Terry Lee Cole started a solar panel cleaning business and credits his service in the Navy for the skills and principles that guided his achievements. Valley News/Courtesy photo
Nikki Symington
Special to Valley News
Terry Lee Cole was born in Los Angeles in 1971. Growing up, life was difficult as his family faced many challenges. Like many youths today, he grew up without a father.
“Growing up without a male role model and wage earner, I started taking care of myself and family at an early age.
“My first real job was parking cars at 16. I did everything from mowing grass to busing tables to name a few of the ways I made money.
“When I was a teenager, even between school and work, I still found time to get into trouble,” Cole said.
Cole viewed the Navy as a means to a better life and education while being paid at the same time. “Plus, even though I was just a high school graduate when I joined, I knew I wasn’t headed in the right direction and
