FORT BENNING, Ga., (April 15, 2015) -- The road in front of the post hospital that connects Dixie Highway and Marne Road will be dedicated in memory of Master Sgt. Jared N. Van Aalst at 3 p.m. April 17 during a ceremony at Martin Army Community Hospital.
Van Aalst died at age 34 in Kunduz province, Afghanistan, in August 2010 of wounds suffered while his unit was conducting combat operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
A Laconia, New Hampshire, native, Van Aalst enlisted in the U.S. Army as a signal support systems specialist Aug. 17, 1995.
After completing Airborne School, Van Aalst earned an assignment to the 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning. He earned the Ranger tab and served as a signal support systems specialist, Infantryman, sniper team leader and platoon sergeant with 3rd Ranger Battalion.
During his time at Fort Benning, Van Aalst was also an award-winning member of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit and a chief instructor and writer to C Company, 2nd Battalion, 29th Infantry Division.
In 2008, Van Aalst became a special operations team member with the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
Van Aalst was posthumously recognized with a second Bronze Star Medal, a third Purple Heart Medal and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal.
A memorial sign bearing his name will be unveiled at the ceremony in celebration of Van Aalst's life and service. This event is open to the public. Dress for the event is business casual for civilians and duty uniform for military attendees.
For more information, contact MACH Public Affairs at 762-408-0487.
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