My walk today was dedicated in honor of:
Army CPL Jessica A. Ellis, Age 24 of Bend, OR.
KIA May 11, 2008 Operation Iraqi Freedom
Army Cpl. Ellis was assigned to the 2nd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Kentucky. She died of wounds sustained when her vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. Jessica graduated from Lakeview High School in 2002. While in high school, she lettered in track and cross country, was on the school’s swim team, and was involved in dance groups. She is remembered as the friendliest kid you would ever want to meet. She then attended Central Oregon Community College in Bend for two years and worked three summers as a U.S. Forest Service firefighter at the Fremont-Winema National Forest. In September 2004, she decided to enter the Army where she became a medic because she cared about people. She would never discuss politics or her views about the war but would always say that she was there for her fellow soldiers. Her awards and decorations include: Army Commendation Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Meritorious Unit Citation; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; Combat Medical Badge; and Weapons Qualification, M4, expert. Three weeks before Jessica’s death, she escaped with only cuts and bruises when her heavily armored vehicle was destroyed by a roadside bomb. She often went on patrol with combat engineers who cleared away roadside explosives. This time the courageous medic who was equipped with an M-4 rifle, a 9mm pistol and body armor in addition to her medical bag was seated behind the driver when her Buffalo armored vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device during a nighttime mine clearing operation.
She is buried in the Arlington National Cemetery
We had a great 7.59 Mile walk this morning. We walked out in the country and enjoyed the sunrise. I want to thank my friend Robert for walking with us today. I want to thank all who honked, waved, and saluted in helping us honor this hero.
Army CPL Jessica A. Ellis will not be forgotten !
