WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman today honored the life and service of Staff Sergeant Jerry Reed II who died in Afghanistan while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. 

In a speech on the Senate floor, Boozman recognized the sacrifice of SSG Reed, a graduate of Russellville High School, who was serving with the U.S. Army’s A Company, 2^nd Battalion, 28^th Infantry Regiment; 172^nd Separate Infantry Brigade in Grafenwoehr, Germany.   

You can watch the speech here. The following is Boozman’s speech as prepared for delivery.  

Mr. President, We are reading in the news about the violence in countries all across the world and are reminded about the tremendous sacrifice of American troops as they protect and preserve the interests of our nation. These men and women serve with courage and honor and it is our duty to honor and stand for those who stood for us. 

Today I am here to pay my respects to Staff Sergeant Jerry Reed II, an Arkansas soldier who sacrificed his life for the love of this country while in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. 

SSG Reed graduated from Russellville High school in 2000 and enlisted in the Army. He served four years then re-enlisted in 2008 and served in Iraq, Germany, Korea and Afghanistan. 

SSG Reed served as a tank driver and gunner with the Army’s 28^th Infantry Brigade, 2^nd Battalion, A Company at Grafenwoehr, Germany. 

His sister Katherine spoke of how he loved the military and planned to make it a career in an interview with the Russellville Courier.

SSG Reed’s family and friends describe him as a man who would have had no trouble fitting into the military as he faced danger head-on. He was a protector and looked out for his friends. He loved being outdoors and fishing and spending time with his family. 

On February 16, 2012 SSG Reed passed away while serving in the Afghanistan.

Mr. President, SSG Reed made the ultimate sacrifice for this country.  He is a true American hero. I ask my colleagues to keep his family and friends in their thoughts and prayers during these difficult times and I humbly offer my thanks to SSG Jerry Reed II for his selfless service to the security and well-being of all Americans.