Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Remembering Jonaus and his smile fondly today.
Memorial Day 2024"
Cheryl J. (KACC) of Shiloh, Illinois

"Staff Sergeant Jude Jonaus...
This is me, SPC. Nguyen (when we worked at Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center KACC in Ft Meade...) as two pharmacy technicians. And today, Memorial Day 2020, I just want to tell the world that your answer to our nation will be remembered. At times I still think of you and our friendship... RIP, Jude.
SGT Nguyen - Trained to save!"
Sinh Nguyen of Fort Worth, Texas

"I miss you dearly my beloved cousin!! My son, your 13yrs old cousin, is writing his school project paper about you and I couldn't bring myself together to give him the informations, so overwhelmed with tears and heartache."
Kettelene Philogene McMorris of Stuart, Florida

"Thank you for your service cousin. May you forever rest in peace. I love you"

"You are forever in my heart. Until we meet again, continue watching over us and protecting us. I feel your presence whenever I'm going through some hard time, I guess that's a reminder from you to let me know how much you love me. I love you too!"
Kettelene Philogene McMorris of Stuart, Fl

"Rip"

"I lovr you"

"Thought about my cousin today. September is right around the corner... Gone but never forgotten, your name is still mentioned. We loved you then and love you now."
Cynthia of Miami, FL

"My beloved young brother died on September 6, 2005 while serving his Country During Operation Iraqi Freedom. I want ever FORGET!!!!!I love you and will always REMEMBER!!!!! ONE LOVE SGM (R)Jay Horton"
SGM (R) Horton

"Your sacrifice will never be forgotten."
M. Al-Arif of Raleigh, NC

"Thinking of SSG Jonaus and his family today--Memorial Day, 2012. Praying for you, still."
BG Brian Layer of Rock Island Arsenal, IL

"I know that it has been almost 7 years since Jude passed, but I just happen to think of him and I wanted to leave my memories of him. Jonaus and I were in the same pharmacy technician class back in 2000 in San Antonio. There were only a handful of prior service pharm techs, so we got pretty close. He was ALWAYS helpful, ALWAYS smiling, NEVER got upset over some of the stupid things that went on, or let anyone bring him down. I remember him as very gentle, intelligent, bright, and....always smiling. He could always lift my mood and I'm so so so sad that he was taken from us so early. I will cherish the time I had with him and never forget his smile!"
Claudia (Army Veteran) of Tacoma, WA

"To the Jonaus family,
I was Jonaus's roomie while in Ft Drum? He was an awesome Soldier, outstanding battle and tremendous person. I am so sorry for your lose! I was in Iraq the same time as Jude and never knew it! I wish I could have been there to help! Gone but never forgotten! RIP brother!"
1SG Jerramy Wood of Ft. Campbell/Clarksville, TN

"I was Jonaus's Sergeant Major and we served at Kimbrough at FT Meade. He was a fabulous Soldier and awesome young brother. He sought me for counsel one day wanting help to change his MOS so that he could get promoted. I told him to transfer to combat arms. He use to email me often and share his enjoyment of being Squad leader. The most positive thing he ever said to me after making SGT was "I want to be Just Like You" My hearts still hurt from his passing. I just wanted to come here this holiday season and show I still carry him in my heart. GOD Bless America and the Jonaus Family...ONE LOVE/ONE HEART"
SGM Jay Horton of Augusta GA

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry at times. I understand, in theory only, that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take your families and friends pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3
A hundred times a day, I remind myself that my inner and outer life depends on the labors of other men, living and dead, and I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am receiving. - Albert Einstein"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"I was the squad leader of Jude R. Jonaus...I was on Emergency Leave when he passed away. I wish his family and friends peace, and wish that I had done more to protect and serve him. SSG Jonaus served his country with dignity and honor and God bless him and his family in everything they do."
SSG Julie A. Witt of Ft. Stewart. GA

"My name is SSG Marlowe I was with Jude on the 6th of September. He will always be in my heart is memory will live on forever in my mind and he will be forever my guardian angel. I love you and miss you. You werent an official PSD member but you will always be family."
SSG Bobby Marlowe of FOB Kalsu Iraq

"August 3, 2008
To the family of Staff Sgt. Jude R. Jonaus:
Jude gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"To the family of:Jude R.Jonaus I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief. He died a hero defending freedom and we are so grateful for anyone defending our freedom.
Know that I am praying for the peace of God that surpasses all understanding for you and that one day we will all meet in Heaven where we will rest in the arms of Jesus.
If you need someone to talk to or someone to pray with please call my Pastor at Gateway Community Church, Reverand John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd Covington Ga. 30016 Phone 770- 787- 1015 (fax)770-787-8215.Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew"

"SGT Jonaus, It has been two years and I can still see you walking through the clinic at Taji with your T.W.A.(Teenie Weenie Afro) that you were growing. I asked you what was up with the fro and you smiled and siad that was your way of rebelling and we both begin to laugh. I often looked for you to pop your head in the Preventive Medicine Section and pick on SPC Gill and Guerra, as you said what's up to CPT Leon and I. Your passing ripped through the DSB and we were all shaken as we heard your name called at the memorail. For weeks after that we expected to see that big ole smile and Afro peep into our shop and were often remiss when it did not happen. You are missed and nothing will ever let us forget you."
SSG Aku-Kacim Johnson of FT. Bliss, Texas

"Jude was one of my Best Friends ever! I miss him greatly. We shared many good times together. We were stationed at Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center, Fort Meade, MD. My love and prayers go out to his family...Sharon, Ricky, and others that I never had the pleasure of meeting. I will not let his memory die."
Misty Bruce of Anderson, SC, USA

"We had many talks and shared many laughs together. I am deeply hurt by his passing on but I know that as comrades we fell toghether and as soldiers we stand together he was like a brother to me and with respect his is remeber as the same Much love"
SPC Bernard Harper Jr of Fort Stewart, Ga

"SSG Jonaus made everyday at our clinic interesting. He loved his jazz music, and was proud to serve double duty as a pharmacy tech and on the PSD. Right before he died, I would often joke with him about his new hairdo - he was starting to grow it out and rebel a little after being in country for so long. The day before he died - we were joking about if he was "crazy" to want to try out for Special Forces - I told him "just crazy enough." He would have done well. To SSG Jonaus' family - know that he made a difference every day taking care of other soldiers. I will miss his smile and sense of humor.
Jill Breitbach, 3ID Psychologist"
Jill Breitbach of Fort Bragg, NC

"SSG Jonaus made everyday at our clinic interesting. He loved his jazz music, and was proud to serve double duty as a pharmacy tech and on the PSD. Right before he died, I would often joke with him about his new hairdo - he was starting to grow it out and rebel a little after being in country for so long. The day before he died - we were joking about if he was "crazy" to want to try out for Special Forces - I told him "just crazy enough." He would have done well. To SSG Jonaus' family - know that he made a difference every day taking care of other soldiers. I will miss his smile and sense of humor.
Jill Breitbach, 3ID Psychologist"
Jill Breitbach of Fort Bragg, NC

"To the family of Jude, we the other part of his family at Kimbrough Clinic at Ft. Meade would like you to know that we are in the process of building a memorial for Jude. Please contact SSg Pearson at 301-677-8302. We would like to have your imput on this. Thanks. Please Ricky contact us we know how close you were to your brother....."
Debra of Ft. Meade Maryland

"Your passing was a rude shock to me, but I take comfort in knowing that you did not pass in vain and that your sacrifice will forever be remembered by those of us who served with you, and by generations of the Iraqi people whose freedom you helped bring about. May you rest in perfect peace and may the almighty grant you succor till we meet again buddy."
SGT Leo O. Arong of Fort Stewart, GA/USA

"I am assigned to 550th ASMC, the unit to which SGT Jude Jonaus was attatched to at Taji. Hearing his name at Roll Call will never be forgotten. His name is on the KIA bracelette I wear every day."
SPC. Jacob Weinberg of Fort Bragg, NC

"Remembering You,

Your time on earth seemed all too brief
because I wanted you in my life forever.
And although I really miss you,
in my heart I know that you are at peace.
Still, countless times throughout the day
I find myself remembering you.
Although I cannot see or hear you,
I know that you are with me.
I'll feel you in the warmth of the summer sun.
I'll see you in the brilliance of autumn leaves.
You'll be beside me in the peacefulness of a gentle snowfall
and rejoice with me at the emergence
of the first flowers of spring.
I'm thankful for the times we shared
and the priceless memories too;
for those memories are a comfort now when I lovingly -
Remember You.
SSG JUDE R. JONAUS

To the family of SSG Jude R. Jonaus from the BTB, DSB, PST Team like to say " our prayer and condolences are with you each and everyday.

Amazing Grace

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see.
Twas grace that taught my heart
to fear, and grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hours I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils, and
snares, I have already come;
'Tis grace hath bought me safe
thus far, and grace will
lead me home.
DSB, 3ID, PST Team (Brothers forever)."
MSG Eric S. Magee of BTB, DSB, 3ID, 4th PLT

"To the Jonaus Family,
I had the honor of working with Jude at Ft Meade Pharmacy. I remember his first day of work there, I welcomed him to our little family. I am glad I got to know him and I am very sad on yours and the world's loss of Jude.
Take care"
Lori Cherry of Bowie, Md

"All my brothers are great. From Pierre, Jude, and Marckendy I love them all. I never thought I would lose any of them. We were post to be here together to the end of time. Letting our kids play together at the family reunion. Sitting back thinking about the old days and laughing about it. Although, I spent majority of the time with Jude while he was down here, in miami. I regret going to work instead of going to the water park with my family, and he ask me to come too and that would run through my head over and over again. I wish I can trade places with him because he has done and can continuing doing more for the family then I'll ever have or will. His work down here is not over yet. Why did he have to go so early. I need him still. We all need him for that matter. I love you Jude Ralph Jonaus. Your youngest brother. I'll make you proud."
Ricky Jonaus of Miami, FL

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your
Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the loyal service and sacrifice that was made and
WE WILL NEVER FORGET.
Our cousin LCPL Michael Smith Jr. gave his life on 4-17-04 fighting for freedom.
Please know that this was not in vain and these American Heros will FOREVER be honored.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon, Ohio

"To the Jonaus Family and Friends

My husband and I never got a chance to meet him personally, but though my sister, Debra Johnson, we did know of him as a person instead of just another name. Without even known it, he provided cheers at my wedding-2002. Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you all."
MSgt Michelle and Rosendo A Callender of Willingboro, NJ

"To the Jonaus Family,
My deepest sympathies for the loss of your son, brother and friend. SGT Jonaus was a pleasure to work with at Kimbrough Pharmacy, always ready with a smile or to help. He grew to be a leader here and his spirit will be carried in our hearts."
Jennifer Evans of Fort Meade, MD

"To the Jonaus Family, I wish to offer to you my deepest condolences. Your Jude is a true American Hero who will always be remembered and honored. We are praying for you all. May God Bless you all and God Bless Jude."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"Jude Ralph "Ralpho" Jonaus was more than a cousin to me. He was an inspiration, the perfect icon for a best friend, a gaurdian, a counselor and an advisor. His character was one of a kind, not holding fast to the materialistic things in life, rather he did to those with value, such as his family and friends. Jude was an easy man to please and a difficult person to upset. Proudly and undoubting he served nine years in the U.S. Army, accomplishing many of goals. He is THE ultimate and true soldier, joining the service not for money or fame, but because he knew that it was the right thing to do and most importantly because he lived, breath and died the Army. I will always remember him, love him, keep him in my mind and most importantly in my heart. I will celebrate his life rather than his death, For as he would say " Why are you guys crying for?" Honor to the Soldier we know and love as Sgt. Jude R. "Ralpho" Jonaus!!!*** "No body told me the road would be easy and I don't believe he brought me this far to leave me."- Mary Mary*****"
Jessica Philogene of Miami, Fl

"I am truly sorry for your loss. May God give you the courage and strength to face the days ahead.

Michele Carter
Sister of CPL Gary Walters
KIA in Baghdad on 24 April 2005"

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness,
and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief.
Our nations HERO, JUDE will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
God Bless you ALWAYS.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"JUDE THANK YOU FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY! YOU HAVE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. TO ALL THOSE YOU HAVE. ALL HOLD VEART DEAR FOND MEMORIES OF YOU BOTH. SO YOUR MORE THEN A SOLDIER AND HERO! JUDE THANK YOU FOR SERVING ALONG SIDE OUR SON GREGORY. SADLY, YOU ARE UNITED ONCE AGAIN. I PRAY THAT YOU REST AND YOUR FAMILY HEALS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"Thank you Jude Jonaus, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Jude Jonaus:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Jude for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Jude Jonaus:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Jude, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia