Local Native, Military Veteran, and Real Estate Professional
Ken Wright Jr is a name synonymous with commitment, service, and excellence. A
native of Niceville, Florida, Ken's journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to
his community and the pursuit of excellence in every facet of his life.
Military Service and Leadership
After graduating from Niceville High School in 1978, Ken embarked on a diverse and
illustrious career. He spent several years in the construction business before enlisting in
the United States Coast Guard, where he would serve for over 22 years. His remarkable
journey in the Coast Guard saw him rise from the enlisted ranks to a commissioned
warrant officer. Throughout his service, Ken undertook a range of assignments, including
Search and Rescue, drug interdiction, migrant interdiction, and aids to navigation, both in
the United States and the Caribbean waters.
Ken's exceptional leadership and strategic insight extended to managing the Military
Civil Rights Program for over 350 command personnel. Additionally, he supervised
Administrative Programs, which included Housing, Pay, Medical, and Training programs
for approximately 400 Military Personnel and 18 Coast Guard Units in the Key West
region. Due to Ken's remarkable leadership and strategic vision his role extended to the
Director of Military Housing Programs for the entire Southeastern United States. Here, he
oversaw the well-being of over 3,500 military personnel and over 12,000 dependents
across five states, earning him the prestigious U.S. Coast Guard Meritorious Service
Medal, among many other accolades. His extensive list of honors includes (1) U.S. Coast
Guard Meritorious Service Medal, (2) U.S. Coast Guard Commendation Medals, (2) U.S.
Coast Guard Achievement Medals, (2) Special Operations Service Medals, (1)
Humanitarian Service Medal, (1) CG Meritorious Team Commendation Ribbon, (5) CG
Unit Commendation Ribbons, (5) CG Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbons, (1) CG
Bicentennial Unit Commendation Ribbon plus many more awards and ribbons.
Real Estate Expertise and Development
After completing his remarkable U.S. Coast Guard career, Ken returned to his hometown
of Niceville, Florida, and embarked on a successful career in real estate. He was a driving
force in the creation and ownership of Turkey Creek Realty, where he served as Vice
President. His real estate journey then led him to join forces with a former Coast Guard
shipmate, the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Southern Realty.
As Ken's real estate journey evolved, he later transferred his real estate license to Keller
Williams Realty Emerald Coast, Coldwell Banker Realty, and eventually to Century 21
Blue Marlin Pelican back in his hometown of Niceville, FL, seizing an opportunity to
expand his business. Ken's versatile role as a Realtor® extends to real estate
development. He owns and manages various properties in the area and contributes to the
development of multiple real estate projects, enhancing the local landscape.
Community Involvement and Volunteerism
Ken Wright's service extends far beyond his professional life. He is a committed
volunteer, dedicating countless hours to his community. Notable among his many roles is
his involvement with the Gary Sinise R.I.S.E (Restoring Independence Supporting
Empowerment) Program since 2016. He has been instrumental in helping several
wounded warriors receive specially adaptive smart homes. These 100% mortgage-free
homes ease the daily challenges faced by these heroes and their families who sacrifice
alongside them.
Ken also served as President (2011-2012) and Vice President (2008-2010) of the
Northwest Florida Military Officers Association. He played a pivotal role as a board
member on the Crestview Military Appreciation and Recognition Celebration Committee,
organizing annual events to honor past and present military personnel. Ken was an
Executive Board Member for the Distinguished Young Women of Florida, a scholarship
program for high school juniors. He is also one of the Founding Board Members for the
Morgan Invitational Golf Classic since 1986, providing scholarships to high school
students. Ken has served as a board member for the American Marine Institute (AMI
Kids), the Builder’s Industry Association of Okaloosa/Walton County, Supervisor for
Heritage Plantation Community Development District, Supervisor for the Freedom Walk
Development District, and an active participant in various committees within local
Chambers of Commerce and the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors.
In November 2010, Ken spearheaded the dedication ceremony for the Petty Officer
Lonnie Jones Memorial Project at the Coast Guard Station Destin, honoring a fallen
Coast Guard shipmate who lost his life in a search and rescue mission in the waters of the
Destin Pass.
Personal Life
Beyond his professional and community commitments, Ken Wright is a family man. He
is married to the former Ms. Erica Knapp and is a loving father to two children, Drew
Wright and Madison Knapp.
Ken's journey is a shining example of dedication, leadership, and selfless service.
Whether in the military, the real estate industry, or his community, Ken's impact is felt
far and wide. His unwavering commitment to the betterment of his community and the
well-being of those around him serves as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of
knowing him.