CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan—Soldiers gathered at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, to pay their respects and honor a fallen comrade during a memorial ceremony, June 15.
Staff Sgt. Jesse L. Thomas Jr., 31, of Pensacola, Fla., died June 10 in Helmand, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 66th Transportation Company, 39th Transportation Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Command, Kleber Kaserne, Germany.
While deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, the 66th Transportation Company supports the 87th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion-Task Force Pyramid.
Thomas, a human resources specialist, was described by his company commander as a great mentor, dedicated noncommissioned officer and professional.
“His dedication to duty will never be forgotten,” said Capt. David Cook, commander of the 66th Transportation Company. “Not only did he take care of Soldiers, but he took care of the command team. I will always think of him as a true noncommissioned officer who did his best to take care of everyone.”
Staff Sgt. Justin Mincey agreed, and said Thomas, his roommate, was a very approachable leader.
“He always took the time to talk to Soldiers,” said Mincey. “Staff Sgt. Thomas will be missed by everyone and will not be forgotten.”
Sgt. 1st Class James Wade added that Thomas, his friend of four years, lived by the Army’s values.
“The Army Value that Staff Sgt. Thomas believed in the most was respect,” said Wade. “He embodied the principle of respect. I will truly miss his mentorship.
“Staff Sgt. Thomas was well loved and he has done so many great things on Earth. I’m sure he’ll do much more in Heaven. All the memories I have of him will forever be cherished.
Thomas is survived by his wife, Michelle; his son, Justin; his stepdaughter, Jamie and his stepson, Jordan.
“Even though he is gone, he will be in our hearts forever—as our brother,” said Cook.