Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

Remembering the servicemembers who died in the service of their country.

Army Spc. Rodney A. Jones

21, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Jones died in Baghdad, Iraq, when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device exploded near his dismounted patrol. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Died on September 30, 2004.

Please send information, photos, and corrections for Army Spc. Rodney A. Jones.

Links:

Contributions to the Families of the Fallen

Messages:

Leave a message in memory of this servicemember, and/or to the loved ones left behind.

Please report inappropriate messages

"Rodney did one of the sweetest things that anyone could have done. When I was new to the A co. 1/5 Cav, he greeted me with such a sincere smile. Jones was very inquisitive about where I was from and a few days later, he made me ceviche which is a traditional dish of my native country, Ecuador. Although I could not eat it because of a shrimp allergy, word cannot capture what this gesture meant to me. Rodeny, my dear brother. I LOVE YOU, MAN! As I write this, I still get emotional so many years later."
Carlos Mariduena of Copperas Cove, Tx.

"Rodney spoke very highly of Rodriquez."
Renee Jones of Philadelphia, PA

"To the family of SPC Rodney A. Jones, stay strong and know he is a hero. For many we live September 30th over and over. Stay strong and never forget our fallen! God Bless!"
Chief of Coventry, Rhode Island

"My name is Rodriguez and although I was not in the same company as Jones, I did have to share a room when I first got to Fort Hood. Jones was a great man. He always carried himself in such manner. I have picture of him in my living room so his memory and sacrifice are never forgotten. Please forgive me for taking so long to share this with you."
Ramiro Rodriguez of San Angelo Texas USA

"Another year has gone by, not that we ever forget, just some days are harder than others. I ran a memorial this week for RI Fallen Hero's however you were one of those hero's in my thoughts. I went to Arlington to pray by your side and how humbling it was. I wish the best to your family. RIP Hero."
RI Soldier of Coventry, Rhode Island

"It's been over 10 years and I've finally decided to post a comment to this site.first off I want Renee and the rest of the jones family to know what a great soldier and man Rodney Jones was. My name is SGT Cassey Roby. Just prior to our deployment my 4 yr old daughter had passed away from cancer. So when I returned to our unit to deploy I was assigned to the headquarters platoon to replace Spc jones as he was to transition down to a line platoon. (1st). For the deployment. For about 2 months I worked hand in hand with Rodney as he taught me the ropes of working as the training room NCO he was a very detail oriented guy with a infectious smile who taught me a lot and set me up for success and for that I will always be thankful. I spoke with Rodney the morning he died as I was in the TOC on radio watch he was in a chipper mood as he always was preparing for his shift of duty out at Raider base.little did we both know just moments later he would fall victim to a cowardly suicide bomber. The events of that day will forever be seared in my mind and the minds of many others that we're involved in that attack. So to the family I say this. RODNEY is a true American hero who served his country courageously and you should be so proud I am humbled and honored to have know him as a person and to have served with him as a soldier,my entire family and I are forever indebted to Rodney for his ultimate sacrifice.And to Rodney I say on this memorial day weekend not a day goes by I don't think of you and your family I miss you bro. Rest in peace until we meet again."
Casey Roby of Silsbee,Texas

"It has been ten years but the memories are still there. I had the honor last year to go to Arlington and say a pray by your resting place. I will be participating in a Honor the Fallen run this weekend and you will be my strength. God bless your family."
Soldier of Rhode Island of Rhode Island

"Why does the other has a million pounds $326., Phen375 Diet Plan, xhp, Phen375 Real Reviews, :[[, Buy Phen375, 3635,"
Bhqvgkvf

"Many years have passed since the death of my dear friend Rodney Aaron Jones. Rodney was the first person I remember welcoming me to Ft. Hood. Rodney was very close to me and many others. Rodney and I talked many nights at Raider Base and I remember that we had many conversations that were very in depth. It has taken me many years to deal with the loss of Rodney. To his family: I offer my sincerest apologies for the loss of such a great person. Rodney meant a great deal to me and I carry his initials inside of a Celtic Cross (Due to me being Irish Decent) with Cavalry Colors accenting the tattoo on my leg in memory of him. I have had this tattoo for many years and I want you to know that he was the one person that I could always talk to when I had something on my mind. Mrs. Jones, I want you to know that your son was like my very own blood and I cherish knowing him and value the conversations that he and I had while doing our rotations at Raider Base. I can't begin to tell you how grateful I am for having him in a time that was troublesome for me in my life. I would give anything to tell him this in person. I truly am saddened and heart broke that I lost a "true" friend. I have carried guilt for years over his death. You see, I was sent back to Ft. Hood because my heart went haywire on me before we were to deploy to the outpost Raider Base from Camp Black Jack. I know that Rodney took my place on that day he died because I was one of the soldiers that was first on rotation for the Blocking Vehicle/Municipal Building. This grieves beyond any amount that any normal person could imagine. I know as a father it would devastate me beyond anything to lose any of my children; so, I am grateful for my life, and I have honored Rodney by not wasting my life. I am a Nurse now and I take care of people with the warmth and compassion that Rodney showed me and anybody he had ever met. I don't know how to say I'm Sorry to you Mrs. Jones. Just know that I carry sadness in my heart because of the loss of Rodney and he will always be remembered and cherished as my brother in my heart/thoughts. I want you to know that Rodney is remembered every time someone asks about the tattoo on my leg and the stories that I share with people when they ask. I offer my condolences and apologies to you and your family. I am truly sorry. To my dear friend Rodney: Rodney, you are carried on for the remainder of my life and your legacy of true friendship and compassion towards people will always be remember by my children and family. Thank you for all the times that you was there for me. I am sorry I wasn't there brother. I hope that you can forgive me. I miss you bro! Until we meet again, may you rest in eternal peace."
Joshua Borders of Saint Charles, MO USA

"To my brother Rodney your missed not a day goes by when i don't think of you. i miss your jokes hearing u laugh. i know god has your in his arms and i will never forget you as i go on living my life bro. i love you and miss you so. i hope god blesses me with seeing you when i make it home"
SSG Gregory A. Lopez of Fort Lee Va

"I miss u just sitting here and I start crying think about u. u was the only one there for me when I needed sum one the most that day was the Worst day of my life but u came and u took up for me when no,one else would and I do the for mine every time I can u showed me wat love was and I thank u for I may have been dead Rest well Hero. I love u so much"
Janean of phila

"To P.I. (Rodney's Nickname)
Its been almost 7 years since you have been gone. I think about you all the time. I know you are not here physically but I do feel your spirit from time to time. I wish I could bring back that day and tell you "I love you and I'm sorry" but I guess you already know that. You sacrificed yourself for the country and that was so brave. Yet I do not have my friend anymore and I miss you so much.
R.I.P. FOREVER RODNEY!

Ms. Jones and Felicia stay strong and I think about you guys too call me anytime (267)2517813"
April Eggleston of Philadelphia, PA

"To the family of:Rodney A.Jones
I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015.
Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"3-25-11"

"I miss u so much P.I. it has been 6yrs u are gone but not forgotten u were a very special person i love u"
shamecia of texas

"R. I. P RODNEY YOU ARE SADLEY MISSED, MUCH LOVE."
S H E L I A of PHILA. PA

"Rodney how could I ever forget you ? Love you man .."
Arron Jones of Inglewood,Ca

"We miss and love you so much Rodney!!!"
Steven Jones of Mem, Tenn

"It's another year and yet a void remains in my heart for my little Brother. I really miss and love my little Brother sooo much. Thanks to all those in whom continue to remember Rodney. God Bless you all for your love and support. LOVE THE JONES FAMILY"
Rodney's Oldest Brother of Philadelphia, Pa

"Wow, Rodney its been ten years we have been out of high school. I didn't even know you joined the Army, until after your death. Its been ten years, and I have made the switch from enlisted to officer. Ten years ago we where going to military balls at Roxborough HS. Ten years ago I was station at Baumholder, Germany apart of the 1st Armored Division. Ten years ago when we enlisted, no one even knew or would have believed we would be embarked in a ten year war that has cost so many lives. I remember your dry jokes like yesterday, and as we close in on our 10 year HS anniversary, I am proud to say that no one has forgotten you or your sacrifice for our nation, freedoms, and way of life. Rest in Peace, Rodney, your legacy will continue to live on!!!"
Terrell Williams of Philadelphia, PA

"Just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking about you on this Memorial Day, Jonesy. You were a great Soldier and I know that all of your Annihalator brothers miss you every day. I thank you and all of your Family for your great Service to our Country on this day."
Doc Wells of Ft. Polk, LA

"To the Jones Family: My prayers go out to you. I know it is not easy for you and my heart goes out to you and everyone who has lost a loved one overseas. You do not know me nor did he, however I live with his passing every day, (I was there that day). Over 5 years ago, I still live that day over and over again.
Best wishes to you."
Soldier of Rhode Island

"Happy Brithday From Aunt Faith.With Love."
Faith Canady of Philadelphia.pa

"It not a day that don't go by that i don't think adout you but today is hard 4 me wishing i can calll u and wish you a happh B-Day .If they onlying knew what they took away from us.love your cousin shonte"
Shonte Canady of Philadelphia,pa

"To the family of Spc. Rodney Jones:
I think of Rodney every holiday and would like to salute him on this Veterans day.

Rodney was a fine young man, and a professional soldier.

I am sorry for your loss."
Mike Kasuboski of Sturgis, MI USA

"HI my name is shantella and i am the grandmother of Aaron Nasir Jones who could possibly be the son of the fallen soldier Rodney A Jones. ME and Aaron Jones mother has try to contact his family numerous times if anyone his info about his family please contact us because we are in despart need of finding out the truth if theres anyone out there that has a heart for a six year old child to know that his father was a hero and died for his country please call 215-571-9236 thank you and may god bless"
Shantella Everett of Philadelphia P.A.

"IT HAS TAKEN ME A WHILE TO LEAVE A MESSAGE ON HERE BUT P.I WAS ONE OF MY BEST FRIENDS WHEN I ARRIVED AT FT HOOD HE GAVE ME THE NICKNAME JESUS WICH IS ANINSIDE JOKE BETWEEN US LOL I REALLY MISS RODNEY I THINK ABOUT HIM ALL THE TIME I KNOW IF HE WERE STILL HERE WE WOULD BE DOING SOME GREAT THINGS.
MRS JONES PLS CALL ME AND LET ME KNOW HOW YOUR FAMILY IS DOING YOU PROBABLY REMEMBER ME AS JESUS LOL BUT ITS JOSE LAZALA 817.938.0070 I REALLY MISS RODNEY HE WAS A GREAT PERSON AND A GREAT FRIEND I WILL NEVER FORGET HIM."
JOSE LAZALA of ARLINGTON ,TEXAS

"To the family of Rodney A. Jones,
My name is Rich Rezes and I did not know your son, brother but I did get to remember and honor him this last Saturday.
I and some friends volunteered to lay wreaths at Arlington as part of Wreaths Across America. After laying a wreath in section 12 we went back and got another wreath and walked over to section 60. I found your son's tombstone and laid my wreath on it, said a prayer and thanked him for his service.
As I kneeled at your sons grave I saw that he was born the year I graduated high school, saying my god he was just a baby and he fought and sacrificed for me.

All I can say is God bless him and your entire family and Thank You.

Regards,
Rich Rezes

RichRezes@Gmail.com"
Rich Rezes of Freehold, New Jersey

"August 3, 2008
To the family of Spc. Rodney A. Jones:
Rodney 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

"P.I. it has been 3Yrs since you left I Miss you and Think of you everyday.They say it's suppose to get easier with Time but it still hurts.I Loved you from the moment we met and I will always Love you."
Shamecia Straughter of Madison,Florida

"rip rodney i miss you alot"
canady of philadelphia pa

"To the family of Rodney A. Jones, I want to offer my condolences and also my heartfelt thanks. I don't know you, nor did I know Rodney, but his sacrifice is worthy of thanks and so much more. I am a member of First Baptist Church Orlando in Orlando, FL. On Memorial Day, flags were placed in an open field on the church property to honor those men and women who have given their lives for our country. On each flag, the name of a fallen soldier was attached. On July 4, those flags were taken from the field by members of the church and taken home so that we could pray for them and the family members left behind. I drew Rodney's flag, and it is an honor for me to offer prayers in his name. Thank you for your sacrifice; Rodney will be remembered. May God bless you now and forever."
Linda Walker of Orlando, FL - USA

"Rodney was a friend of mine. We served in JROTC together at Roxborough and both joined the Army at 18. He was a good man and had three great women by his side and will be terribly missed. Although he was taken away from us two years ago I still feel like it was just yesterday and I think Im stil kind of hurt but I will get through with God's grace. Ms. Jones Felicia and Terricka(Tiny) I dont know if any of ou remember me but if you need anything dont hesitate to get in contact with me at 267 992 2300. ANYTHING AT ALL! Rod, rest in peace giant. I love you kid!"
SPC Eugene D. Tinsley of Philadelphia, PA

"Mrs Jones, Please call me. Our son, now Sgt. Erik Gill, tried to save Rodney. He has a hard time letting him go. His watch is timed to go off every day at the time RJ died. Can you help him? He is curently dep;oyed but his wife hears his watch go off every day at the timw RJ died. I'm sure you don't know but our community has planted a tree in honor of RJ. Our heart felts thoughts are with you. Can you find it in your heart to help our son? RJ is always with him and always will be but can you help him feel that RJ's dying was not his fault? He so desperately tried to help his brother in arms.
Yours respectfully, Sheila Gill
727-784-0150"
Sheila Gill of Oldsmar, FL, USA

"To Rodney's family, My name is SPC. Knutson, I had the honor and priveledge to serve with your son. When I arrived to A co in 2003, he was the company's training room NCO. He went above and beyond to help me get my bearings and get me squared away as a new soldier. He was a great friend and comrade to have. I am blessed to have served with such a great American. He is truly a Hero, and was and always will be a great mentor."
Spc. Paul Knutson of Ft. Hood, Tx.

"I had the pleasure of working with SPC. Jones on a few assignments, and each time I was impressed with his professionalism. He was always energetic and exceedingly helpful. My heart and prayers go to his family. May God richly bless you."
SPC. S. Jones of Dover, Delaware

"I had the pleasure and honor of serving in TX and Iraq with Rodney, He always had a smile on his face and a kind word for you. He will be missed but never forgotten. Take care"
Ross of wisconsin

"To Rodney's Mom and Family:
I never had the priviledge of knowing Rodney personally. I share with your family the loss of a loved one that very same day, SSG Darren J. Cunningham. Darren and Rodney were both stationed at Ft. Hood together, and now they rest side by side in Arlington. When I visit, I always bring extra flowers for Rodney, and for Kenny who is on the other side of Darren. It is an honor to know that my brother served along with such a great man as Rodney, and now they rest in peace next to each other. Rodney and Darren and all the other's who sacrificed so greatly for us all, will never be forgotten.
Although our tears continue, these great men brought us such joy and happiness. May you find comfort in all your thoughts of Rodney.

Respectfully,
Kelly J Cunningham
darrenslitlsis@yahoo.com 06/22/06"
of Groton, MA

"To Rodney A. Jones' family, my husband and I just attended the motorcycle "Freedom Run" in Marseilles, IL over the weekend. I received your son's tribute "dog tags" and I wanted to send my thoughts and prayers to you and your family."
Diane Le Clair of Donovan, IL

"To your family.. My husband served with Rodney from "D" well into "A" CO. 2nd platoon "pychos"

We the "Alpha company family" no matter how far we are scattered across the world; WILL never forget your son..

Trees can be planted, memorials built,
plaques are hung.

But nothing will stay in our hearts more then remembering his smile, his jokes, his laughter, his drive.

We miss you "RJ"

SFC.Phillip and Sharon Miller"
of Fort Eustis VA

"Our son is buried in Arlington; he was killed in August of 2004. We understand your pain. We would a member of the family to contact us about a Pennsylvania memorial.
You may reach us at DianeSantoriello@hotmail.com God bless you."
Diane & Neil Santoriello Sr, of Verona, PA

"It was a pleasure and honor to have served with Spc Jones during his last 2 years. He will be missed. I pray God grants his mother peace and comfort."
Sgt A.E.A. of Plano, Tx

"To the parents of Spc Jones

MY name is Spc Marez I was deployed with your son we stareted off in the same PLT but he later went to a different PLT second PLT Pyschos thats our name was not the same after he left but he went and did good things for A CO it was a pleasure searving with JONES and he will be missed by all of A CO and he will forever be in our hearts minds and prayers if u would like to write me back my email is mmarez21@yahoo.com"
Spc Marez of Dallas Tx USA

"I am proud to say that I have just recieved a bracelet bearing Rodneys name, I have not taken it of since I got it 4days ago,if the parents do not have one I would gladly send them mine.410-810-0555"
Libby of 21620

"To the family of Rodney;

Our sincerest condolences for your loss. Rodney is a true American hero and will always be remembered for his bravery and sacrifice he gave to our country. Our family has also suffered the loss of my nephew in this battle for freedom. May God bless you during this difficult time."
Vic and Tammy McClain--azquail@att.net of Tucson, AZ

"Specialist Jones, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas

"To Rodney's Family and Friends:

On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincerest condolences. We share the same loss ... the same pain. Our prayers are with you in this most difficult time and we thank you for your soldier's bravery and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

The Family of Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas, 82nd Airborne
KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.
Gloria Caldas (The Big Ern's Mom) of San Antonio, TX
gloria.caldas@banksterling.com"

"""We are so sorry for your loss. We lost Army Spc.Joshua Justice Henry on 9-20-04. This was the hardest day of our lives. We honor these guys as our Heroes and hope no one else has to go through with what we are all dealing with. Rest in peace Rodney, and thank you for serving your country to the fullest"
Henry family of Vandergrift , PA

"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. Your HERO, Rodney, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"My deepest sympathy, our family has also suffered the loss of a precious life in this battle for freedom. May God bless you and help you through this time. Forever in our hearts a HERO Rodney A. Jones."
Amy & Aaron Monier of Waterford, MI.

"To Rodney's Family:
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Thank you Rodney Jones, 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 Spc. Rodney Jones:
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 Rodney 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 Spc. Rodney Jones:
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 Rodney, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia

Honor them by remembering... Freedom - is their gift to us But his soul goes marching on