FORT HOOD, Texas - Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, attended a memorial ceremony held to honor 1st Lt. Michael Thomas Jue at the Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran's Chapel, here, March 15.
Jue, who was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, died March 2 after collapsing during morning physical fitness training.
"Even after we returned from Iraq, Michael continued to do what he did best, he led from the front," said Lt. Col. John Cushing, the squadron's commander. "Everyone that he touched and led benefitted from it."
The 37-year-old platoon leader from Warren, Ohio, returned last summer after completing his second tour in Iraq. During his five years of selfless service his awards included the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Accommodation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and Combat Action Badge.
Jue, who held a communications degree from University of Cincinnati and business degree from Miami University, planned on deploying with his unit this fall and afterwards going back to school to pursue another degree.
"He set the standard for the other platoon leaders and officers around him," said Capt. Benjamin Jackman, Jue's company commander. "1st Lt. Jue made an impact on the Soldiers and the unit that I will never forget."
Social Sharing