Photo By Sgt. Ason Forsyth | Soldiers of the North Carolina National Guard gather with Family and friends of Maj....... read more read more
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The North Carolina National Guard Armory in Fayetteville, North Carolina, was renamed the “Major Jason George Readiness Center” on June 23, 2018 at a ceremony held at the Fayetteville armory. The ceremony was held in honor of Major Jason George who was killed in action on May 21, 2009 near Baghdad, Iraq by injuries sustained from an improvised explosive device.
“The morning that George went out on patrol he told me, ‘I know why I’m here, I’m here to make a difference,’” said Col. Robert H. Bumgardner, commander of the 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team. “Some Soldiers deploy to be part of a team, some want to go on an adventure, but Maj. George wanted to make a difference in the world.”
George was a project officer with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 252nd Combined Arms Battalion, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team.
“The Fayetteville armory is a fitting tribute to Major George, as it is home to the unit he served with while deployed,” said 1st Lt. Gore.
During his deployment, George identified the need for sanitation in Southern Baghdad. It was through his insight that the unit was able to start a project to provide clean water and working sewage systems.
“He was the perfect project officer,” Bumgardner said. “Major George threw himself at his job and often acted as a clench staff member in times of need.”
George excelled from an early age. He had an internship in high school with NASA at Edwards Air Force Base. He played multiple sports and was an Eagle Scout.
“He loved adventure, if he could find one he would go,” said Candace Mason, George’s mother. “He truly was a unique individual.”
After high school, George spent a year at California State University, Bakersfield before he was appointed to West Point, where he graduated with an undefeated boxing record. After serving eight years in
the Army on active duty, George left the military and continued his education at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. He graduated with his Masters’ degree in Business Administration.
“His friends said that he was always the one to stay behind in classes to answer questions,” Mason said. “He loved people and he always helped others.”
George started work as a consultant in the medical field but his love for his fellow service members drew him back to the military, so he decided to join the Army Reserves in California. He then volunteered to deploy with the 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team.
“One percent of all Americans take the oath to join and serve their country, and I think everyone who knew Major George can agree that he represents the one percent of the one percent.” Bumgardner said. “He made a difference wherever he went and inspired us to become better people.”
Major George was laid to rest in Bakersfield National Cemetery in California. He is survived by his parents, his grandparents and his brothers-in-arms.
| Date Taken: | 06.23.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 06.27.2018 11:28 |
| Story ID: | 282445 |
| Location: | FAYETTEVILLE , NC, US |
| Web Views: | 394 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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