Edward Justin Gladding

Edward Justin Gladding, known by all as EJ, who was a dedicated attorney and esteemed public servant, passed away on September 29, 2024, at the age of 48. Born on January 31, 1976, in Sacramento, California. EJ was subsequently raised in Reno, Nevada, where he attended Jessie Beck Elementary School, Swope Middle School, and Reno High School. During his youth, EJ also spent a significant amount of time in Virginia City, NV, and was proud to consider himself a fifth generation VC resident. After graduating from Reno High School, he embarked on an academic journey that culminated in a Communications degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, followed by a Juris Doctor from McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento, California.

EJ's professional journey took a significant turn when he joined the United States Army as a Judge Advocate General. His career spanned multiple locations, where he held many key positions. At Ft. Benning, he provided Legal Assistance, served as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, and acted as a Magister and Administrative Lawyer. At Ft. Riley, he was part of the Trial Defense Services as Defense Counsel and subsequently served as Acting Senior Defense Counsel. In Korea, he served as Brigade Judge Advocate for the 2nd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade at Camp Carroll, where he played a pivotal role in ensuring legal compliance and Soldier advocacy. At Ft. Irwin, EJ served as Chief of Legal Assistance and was proud to represent the US Army's most sensitive cases as the Special Victims Counsel for the western United States. In Charlottesville, he furthered his education at The Judge Advocate General Legal Center and School, obtaining a Master of Legal Letters. In Germany, he took on roles at Wiesbaden as Deputy Director, Military Civil Law Division and Acting Director, Military Civil Law Division for U.S. Army Europe and Africa. Most recently, at Ft. Campbell, EJ served as Senior Defense Counsel for Trial Defense Services and Deputy Regional Defense Counsel for the Mississippi Region.

Throughout his distinguished military career, EJ was highly decorated receiving two Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, The National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Korea Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and two Overseas Service Ribbons. Above all, EJ was known for his unwavering dedication to justice, compassion for service members, and strong advocacy for those in need.

After retirement, EJ continued to serve Soldiers in need when he joined the Law offices of Will M. Helixon's Warrior Law Team of Warrior Advocates. EJ was equally proud of his service in the civilian ranks as the team he joined consisted of experienced, respected, military law stalwarts.

Beyond his professional achievements, EJ was passionate about his family, gaming, science fiction, and loved mentoring young attorneys and serving the community. His wisdom and kindness left a lasting impact on many.

EJ is survived by his spouse, Christina Gladding; his son, James Gladding; his daughter, Catrina Gladding; his parents, Edward and Phyllis Gladding; and his brother, Ryan Gladding. He leaves behind countless friends and colleagues who will remember him for his brilliance, integrity, and the compassion he extended to all around him.

A memorial service and burial with full military honors will be held at 11:00am, October 25th, 2024, at the Silver Terrace Cemetery, Virginia City, NV with a celebration of life following at 1:00pm, at the Piper's Opera House, Virginia City, NV. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Organization for Autism Research (https://researchautism.org/).

Edward Justin Gladding will be deeply missed but fondly remembered as a man who dedicated his life to serving others, advocating for justice, and impacting the lives of those around him. May he rest in peace.