Anyone who has spent much time in Charlotte area YMCAs probably knows Sgt. Roy Lewis.

In addition to keeping his students fit, he also takes extreme pride in keeping the country safe.

About his teaching, he says, "I want my classes to be more than just an exercise experience.  I want it to be kind of a spiritual experience."

Through the years, hundreds of people have experienced the teachings of Sgt. Roy, as he’s known.  His is a story of boundless energy, of strong faith and a driving need to see the people around him succeed.

"I love motivating people.  You know, I love finding out what makes people click.  You know what gets them over the edge to meet their goals,” Lewis said.

It was 23 years ago when Lewis, then a young newlywed, joined the military.  Since then, he's served active duty, the National Guard and the Reserves.  He says he’s proud to be an American soldier.

Now in training in Alabama, by the first of the year, the sergeant and drill instructor will be on the ground in Iraq.

About his deployment, he says, "It’s mixed emotions. I'm excited.  I'm nervous.  I'm scared and confused all at once."

On a recent Saturday afternoon, many of Roy's fitness students and friends gathered for a tribute and send off.

His wife Wendy, daughter Jordan and son Ryan were by his side there.  He speaks highly of them.

"My greatest accolade is that of being a husband to my wife, a father to my kids,” says Lewis.

As upbeat and positive as ever, Sgt. Roy isn't one to say goodbye.  Instead, he signs off with this:  "I'll see you when I get back.”

Sgt. Roy's deployment will last for one year.  During that time, he says he plans to use down time to work on his book about what he's learned so far in life and living it to the maximum.