Your Soldier in a Suit

The Remarkable Journey of Alexander Taylor from Military Service to Community Advocacy

When you sit down with retired U.S. Army Colonel

Alexander L. Taylor, Jr., it's as if you're stepping into a world of wisdom and experience artfully paired with modesty. He will immediately encourage you to call him Alex and refuses to boast about his many accomplishments. Throughout our conversation, with a smile glowing across his face, Taylor proclaims, “I forgot I even did some of the things pictured here because my focus is on the next mission!”

However, a quick scan of his office provides a snapshot of his successes. Hung on the walls are a collection of degrees and plaques that highlight his educational and professional journey. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Virginia, earned his Juris Doctor from University of Richmond School of Law and completed a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies at the U.S. Army War College. In addition to earning his Virginia bar license, he has received accolades from various professional organizations including the National Black Trial Lawyers Association and Hill Tucker Bar Association. Even with these reminders surrounding him, Taylor’s pride is most visible when he speaks about his family and his dedication to community service.

“Almost all of the men in my family served in the military,” he shares. “All of my uncles, many of my cousins, and my father with the same name all served. One son and one nephew are currently serving on active duty. One of my proudest moments was promoting my eldest son, Alexander L. Taylor, III to Captain in the Army earlier this year.” A photo commemorating Colonel Taylor’s father, Alex Sr., promoting him to Captain, while in JROTC, hangs prominently in Colonel Taylor’s office.

Another meaningful moment occurred after Taylor joined the Military Retirees Club (M.R.C.) in 2022 at the suggestion of his uncle, retired U.S. Army First Sergeant Charles H. Taylor. First Sergeant Taylor holds two Purple Hearts for combat service in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and he was a co-founder of the M.R.C. After Colonel Taylor became a member of the M.R.C., he established the club’s Annual Fundraising Gala, created the Military Retirees Club Legacy of Service award in his uncle’s honor, and bestowed his uncle with the award at the inaugural gala. In addition to honoring First Sergeant Taylor, this event was a fundraising success: it raised over $45,000 which enabled the club to undergo building renovations. The money also allowed the M.R.C. to enact programs that support the organization’s mission including the forthcoming suicide prevention initiative. This success underscores Colonel Taylor's ability to mobilize resources for the betterment of his community.

“I didn't join the M.R.C. to be a member; I joined the MRC to be a leader, just like my uncle," he reflects.

Leadership underscores the balance of Taylor’s career both in the military and in the legal field. While ascending the ranks of the U.S. Army, Taylor served as Senior Defense Counsel in the 1990s before serving as a Senior Prosecutor. In 2011, he became a Military Judge prior opening his own firm, Alex Taylor Law. In his private practice, Taylor specializes in criminal defense and personal injury matters.

Many of Taylor's cases have made headlines and underscored his prowess as a legal advocate. In 2021, Taylor partnered with co-counsel to represent Everett Bolling in a high-profile murder case. By working in tandem, the defense successfully secured a not-guilty verdict and Bolling was acquitted on all charges. This case, along with countless others, demonstrates Taylor's dedication to justice and his ability to deliver results for his clients.

“Without the long hours and dedication of my entire legal team, this result wouldn't have been possible," Taylor humbly notes. Always remaining down-to-earth, Taylor quickly steers away from the noteworthy cases to discuss how he gives back to the public.

Community service is what Taylor is most passionate about. A shining example of Taylor’s altruistic portfolio is his co-founding of the Richmond Ridley Cain Endowed Scholarship. This program empowers African American students to pursue higher education at Taylor’s alma mater, the University of Virginia. With a current endowment exceeding $2 million, this initiative has made higher education more accessible for countless deserving students.

“I’m really proud of that,” Taylor says with a smile. “Education is important. Everyone should be able to go to college if they want to go. This scholarship enhances diversity at UVA with some of Richmond’s best and brightest students.”

In the midst of his remarkable achievements, Taylor holds his role as a father to his two sons as his most significant accomplishment. By leading through example, he has instilled in them the values of dedication, education, and service. In turn, they have embraced and embodied these ideas along their own paths to success.

Taylor reflects, "Two of my proudest moments as a father were watching my youngest son lead his fellow college mates in a cryptocurrency presentation and, of course, promoting my eldest son to Captain in the Army." If the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, Richmond can expect two more outstanding leaders to follow in their father’s footsteps.

Alexander Taylor, Jr.'s journey is a testament to the power of tenacity, lifelong education, and social welfare. While his military service and legal expertise are commendable, it is his unwavering commitment to local causes and his cherished role as a father that truly set him apart. - A. Joy

To learn more about Ret. Col Alex Taylor and Alex Taylor Law, please visit AlexTaylorLaw.com.