Judge Steven P. Logan’s journey to the bench is a story of valor, perseverance, and determination. The U.S. district judge in Phoenix, Arizona, became the first in his military family to graduate from college. He went on to serve 26 years in the Marine Corps and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal during his time stationed in Iraq.
“The time I spent in the Marine Corps, I’d do it a thousand times over again, even though I ended up in a war zone three times,” Logan said. “Several times I probably should have died or been at least gravely injured and I'm still here.”
Logan is the subject of a new installment in the Pathways to the Bench video series, in which judges talk about challenges they overcame on their way to service as a federal judge.
The judge credits his parents for his work ethic and passion to serve his country.
“I constantly heard my parents saying, ‘Don't give up,’” said Logan, recalling their encouragement when he was a student at the University of Oklahoma College of Law. Prior to his appointment as the first African American U.S. district judge in Phoenix in 2014, Logan served as a U.S. magistrate judge for the District of Arizona since 2012.
As a judge, Logan encourages young people not to let others define who they are and to find their own path.
“Find someone that continues to encourage what you believe to be your dreams,” Logan said.
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