SSG Cleveland was born in Peoria, Arizona on 27 January, 1959. He joined the Army in 1978, serving two tours in Germany, one tour in Korea, and two tours at Fort Lewis, Washington. In 1988, he joined the Night Stalkers and was assigned as a crew chief in Delta Company, 1st Battalion.
He was one to help others whenever asked. If someone could not make a flight, he was there. He served in the demanding crew chief job for nearly six years, deploying on numerous missions, such as operations Prime Chance, Just Cause and Gothic Serpent. He was a faithful husband, a loving father, a devoted son, true friend, fearless warrior, and a proud Night Stalker.
His numerous awards include: two Air Medals with “V” device, two Air Medals, two Army Commendation Medals, three Army Achievement Medals, five Good Conduct Medals, four Joint Meritorious Unit Awards, two Armed Forces Expeditionary Medals, and the Senior Aircrewman’s Badge.
He was married to Christine Cleveland, and had five children: Peter, William, Edward, Crystal, and Johann.
