Soldier Honored: John H. Jarrell

Army Sergeant First Class John H. Jarrell, 32, of Brunson, S.C., was assigned to 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Kentucky. On July 15, 2010, while on foot patrol in southern Afghanistan’s Helmand province, SFC Jarrell and his team encountered an improvised explosive device.  Two of his soldiers were injured in the first blast, and with SFC Jarrell attending to their aid, he lost his life in the second blast.

A 14-year veteran and infantryman, he began his Army career in June of 1996. As a highly decorated soldier, SFC Jarrell’s awards include among a Bronze Star Medal with Valor device, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal and many other medals, ribbons and badges.

Those fortunate enough to know him valued him as a man who kept a smile on his face and who had a laugh contagious to others. An avid Georgia Bulldogs fan, he enjoyed hunting and fishing, was a member of the National Rifle Association, and served his God through the Baptist denomination.

SFC Jarrell is survived by his wife, daughter and son.  His daughter is a Folds of Honor scholarship recipient.