Soldier Honored: Justin S. Monschke

Army Sergeant First Class Justin S. Monschke, 28, of Krum, Texas, was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) based in Fort Bragg, North Carolina and served during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM.  He was serving in the south Baghdad region of Arab Jabour, Iraq as a Special Forces Operational Detachment-Alpha team weapons sergeant. He died October 14, 2007 when an IED exploded near him.

SFC Monschke graduated from Krum High School in May 1997 and enlisted in the Army that June. In 2002, he earned the legendary Green Beret. He also had undergone extensive advanced military tactics, paratroop, emergency medical, Ranger, Special Forces and non-commissioned officer training. SFC Monschke earned a Silver Star, a Bronze Star medal, Meritorious Service medal, Purple Heart medal, Army Commendation medal with one oak leaf cluster, the  Army Achievement medal with two oak leaf clusters, Army Good Conduct medal (third award), Armed Forces Expeditionary medal, Afghanistan Campaign medal, Iraqi Campaign medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (third award), Army Service Ribbon, Special Forces Tab, Ranger Tab, Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge and Russian Parachutist Badge for his service and sacrifice.

His Silver Star was presented to his family after his death. “This is an incredible award, given only to those who have displayed the highest degree of gallantry in service and honor,” said Lt. Gen. Robert W. Wagner during the ceremony.

SFC Monschke’s daughter is a Folds of Honor Scholarship recipient.