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Staff Sgt. Jason M. Butkus
Staff Sgt. Jason M. Butkus
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Jason M. Butkus Obituary
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Michael Butkus
January 4, 2020
Happy Birthday
Sue Shanker
January 3, 2020
Thinking if you today. Happy Birthday.
Sue Shanker
January 3, 2020
Happy Heavenly Birthday Jason!
Sue Shanker
May 28, 2019
Thank you for your Service & Sacrifice Jason.
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May 27, 2019
My dear son it is time again to honor your life and your death. It never get's easy you are missed and loved. It is an honor to be your father Love Dad.
Sue Shanker
January 4, 2019
Happy Birthday in Heaven Jason! You are only a thought away, & missed daily.
November 11, 2018
Jason My Son I Hope You Are Aware Of How Much I Miss You Love Dad
July 4, 2018
Always thinking of you Jay Happy Fourth of July 2018
Love Dad
Kevin
May 29, 2017
Miss you my friend
Sue Shanker
January 4, 2016
Remembering you on your birthday.
January 4, 2015
The girls are doing well, Missing you all the time. How quickly the time goes by but you are always there Loving you and missing all of you DAD
Sue Shanker
January 4, 2015
Happy Birthday Jason!
You're always in our hearts.
August 30, 2014
Always thinking of you, thought's that produce a smile rather than tear's that have flown from my eye's, loving you
DAD
June 20, 2014
I love you Uncle Jay. I miss you so much it kills me. Sneaking into the camper to wake you up in the mornings when you came home for leave, you making me eat every single bit of food on my plate even though I despised it, I miss everything about you. You will always be my hero, my one true protector. I love you always and forever.
Sue Shanker
May 29, 2014
Thinking of you. :-)
Ginny Raue
May 28, 2014
Dennis Musgraves
May 27, 2014
Never Forgot! Our short time spent together made a postive impact on my life. I will set a line out for you in Valdez. RIP
Ginny Raue
May 26, 2014
Will visit Veterans Park in West Milford today, say a prayer and place a flower on Jay's memorial tablet. Never forgotten by the Raue family.
Michael Butkus
May 25, 2014
My heart think's of you each day loving you my dear son
Dad
Sue Shanker
August 30, 2013
You are very much missed today and always.
Dennis Musgraves
September 4, 2012
Never forgot, RIP Jason.
August 30, 2012
As Time Heals all....The Tears, Turn to smiles as I think of you on this 5th. Year of your Death. I just wanted to let you know that you have a great deal of Faithful Loving friends that keep you alive in their hearts.....Miss You
Tonya Butkus
August 30, 2012
I can't believe it's been 5 years. I keep expecting you to just show up on the back stairs...I miss your bear hugs and your phone calls...ok, I also miss you telling me the right way to do things and the debating that would follow:) Till we meet again big bro...
Suzie Shanker
August 30, 2012
Thinking of you.
Keith Gallagher
June 20, 2012
Served with Jason in the 82nd Airborne Division in the late 90's. Was very sad to hear he was taken before his time to say the least. I remember a hard charging paratrooper who was there for the men. Besides always ready to crack back an ice cold Bud after a hard days work. I drove with him a few times up north when we were on leave---we had some memories. But, if I were ever to see Jay pass before his time---i gotta say I wasnt surprised to see him in a fight,with his men,doing what he believed in. God bless ya Jay---you were a good soldier and a good man. RIP brother
Michael Butkus
May 26, 2012
Memorial Day is on the way, I sit and think of you and I am honored and proud of you. Miss and love you my dear son.
September 11, 2011
My Dear Son
You are always missed, this is a day of reflection, to cry,to feel,to love, to cherish and to miss you.
Love Dad
Peggy Childers
August 30, 2011
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Jason M. Butkus:
Please accept my remembrance of Jason on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Suzie
August 30, 2011
Jason, Four years ago today,
You were sadly taken away.
Although we never had the chance to meet, You've been an inspiration for all that see.
The love your friends & family have expressed, in the sheer happiness of your existence, with their words of your deeds.
When you answered the call, you became a hero to all.
You are deeply missed more then mere words can express, but when you fly with the Eagles & soar with the Angels your wings are ever present as they surround your family with your love & goodness.
August 30, 2011
In honor of your memory, YOU are deeply missed by all that know and love you.
August 30, 2011
Visiting with you at Arlington today brother. I miss you very much. We will, someday, drink, run and fight together once again. My love and prayers go out to your family.
Daniel Gustafson
August 29, 2011
It has been 4 years my friend...It seems like it becomes harder because it has set in more now! Once again I proudly have your pic on my profile and will dedicate tomorrow to you! I miss you my friend...my Brother! Great times we had back in the day! To your family my prayers and thoughts go out...
June 20, 2011
Hope the poem was OK. It was sent with Love. Jason would say that I know. He loved on earth and loves protects in heaven. It is wonderful how you talk about him. So much love between you two. We misss the ones we love but love goes on. I want you to know both of you are daddys so for lots of love to all.
June 18, 2011
To jason's Dad on Fathers Day,
If Jason could talk this is what he would say.
If flowers grew in heaven, then pick a bunch for me. Place them in my fathers arms and tell they are from me. Tell him that I love him and when he turns and smiles. Place a kiss upon his neck and hold him for awhile. To a Dad
Joseph Mueller
May 31, 2011
Happy Memorial Day Jason.
Michael Butkus
May 2, 2011
My Dear Son...The celebration of the death of Osama Bin Laden, has me angry and full of grief. I would have loved to have a face to face conversation with you about this, but he is part of the reason's that we can't. My heart and soul reaches for you with the hope you are at peace...missing you with all of me .....DAD
March 29, 2011
It has been a while quite a few years. They fly without you so sad. Your dad misses you so and so does your sisters. Give them hugs so they know you are looking down on them. My son looks down on his family and has a little names sake now. Love conquers all which all people knew that.
Elizabeth Raab
January 14, 2011
Your legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew you and shared in your struggle to protect our country and the ultimate sacrifice you gave so that we can be grateful for what we have. Your family, friends, loved ones and fellow soldiers will stay in my thoughts and prayers.
A Proud Military Mom.
January 7, 2011
Hey You a bit late but Happy Birthday
Bret Hamilton
December 2, 2010
Having the honor of being one of his company commanders for over 2 years,to include our Iraq Deployment, I know that SSG Jason Butkus was by far one of the best 'Old School' Non-Commissioned Officers I have ever had the honor of serving with in the Army. Bar none. He actively took care of his soldiers with tough and sometimes demanding leadership in extremely difficult situations. He was always dependable, always there. He showed courage under fire, and more importantly, the discipline to lead Soldiers under fire. The Army is less for his passing. I reflect on his service often. God bless.
Michael Butkus
November 11, 2010
Thank You for my life. Always remembering you. Love Dad
Will Shomaker
November 7, 2010
To the family of my good buddy Jason, I just wanted to say that i'm sorry for your tremendous loss. He was a really good friend of mine and he taught me alot about being a great squad leader. He was one of hardest individuals I have ever meet, and had the pleasure of serving with. He was dedicated leader and always did what was right. He always talked to me about his son conner while we served together in Iraq. I just wanted to say I'm sorry for your loss, and should have any questions feel free to contact me at any time. God Bless.
Tammy Temple
September 20, 2010
I knew Jason while he was stationed at Ft. Bragg NC. He always took care of me and I looked at him as a big brother. I was thinking of Jason and wanted to find out where he may be stationed but, I now know that he is in heaven and that the hero that his friends and family already knew he was--now the world knows !!!!
For Jasons family:I am sorry for your loss!
Peggy Childers
August 30, 2010
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Jason M. Butkus:
Remembering Jason on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
James Sackett
May 31, 2010
On this Memorial Day I just want you to know you are still missed everyday by everyone here in 1-28IN. We will never forget you and what your taught us and what a great NCO, Brother and Friend you were to all of us
May 30, 2010
I just wanted to pay my respects this memorial day. I remember when you showed up to Ft Bragg as a new guy. Rest in Peace my friend.
Scott Stevenson C co 1/325 AIR
Michael Butkus
May 29, 2010
Dear Jason
Today is 5/29/2010 Memorial Day is 5/31/2010, the day we honor all who have served. So I guess I might be a bit early. It has been 1001 days since you have departed. I still have a stack of mail not opened, maybe next year I shall. Now that I think of it, I shall not open them. I shall wait until Connor may want to know more about the man you were and send them to him. He can read and truly understand why we miss you so.
Love DAD
May 9, 2010
Jason,
I think of children who have died before their time. You had to leave so early. Leave a son who will miss you, sisters who still want to put their arms around you to hug you. A father who your loss is so great but fathers and sons have a special bond. A hole in the hearts of many are felt but as time goes by it heals with a scabe and a scare if left. Hug your sweet sisters hug your dad. You are missed. You brave man.
April 1, 2010
Jay,
Been missing you tons. Love you, Ton
Daniel Gustafson
March 6, 2010
Hey buddy! You just popped into my head before. Had to stop and write something! Was thinking about the old days of playing paintball in the woods and having a blast! you were a great friend and sorely missed! You served your friends family and country well God bless you and rest well my friend. For you deserve peace and rest more than most!
Michael Butkus
January 3, 2010
Hey Jason...I am a bit early...Happy Birthday and Happy New Year...Got Moms birthday right still screwing up on Tonya and Vinessa's. Got some pictures from Tonya what Beautiful niece's you have, and what..Great Grandkid's..Set Ur Birthday up as a Quite day for smoking help me out bud...Loving You With All Of Me DAD
October 11, 2009
Just found out tonite from a good friend about Jason and I am very distraught over the loss of a great friend and fellow Paratrooper.We served together in the 82nd,(C 1/325 AIR) and he was an outstanding soldier and a great friend.We were able to spend time together after his return from overseas and mine as well,once again in the 82nd.I was in C 2/504 and he was in 3rd Bat.We were playing OP4 for them and this dude comes up and searches me.It was Jason.We hugged right there,totally forgetting about the mission. Oh the memories my friend!I Remember the trip up the All american freeway in the wrong lane at 80 miles an hour!The stories can go on and on.Jason was definately one of the guys that I considered a close friend and a very fun person to be around.I will miss him dearly.Airborne all the way my friend!
Jason Sevene,Swanzey NH
Robert Spears
October 9, 2009
I only just learned of his passing today, from a mutual friend. We served together at Charlie Company 1/325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, where we had become very good friends. I have thought alot of him over the years, but probably like most people who knew him, assumed he would live longer than myself and neglected to try and look him up. I now regret that procrastination, and it stands to show that even the toughest among us can leave us without warning. I will miss him more than I ever did. I thank him posthumously for his service for our country and even more for the leadership and direction he surely gave to our brethren who yet fight for our causes. He will always be remembered in my world, and I will take those memories with me when I leave it.
God bless his family.
Kev
September 24, 2009
I am here to talk about a great man that I shared the priveledge to know. I was stationed a three duty stations with Jason. We knew each other at FT Bragg, FT wainwright, and FT Jackson. Jason became my Big Bother at FT Jackson. I was going through a tough time in my life at FT Jackson and Jason was there for me thick and thin. I spent countless hours with him when when I could not go home. He knew me from years before and took me in like a little brother. I worked with Jason on a daily basis, we were on the same range. Jason was one of the most intellegient men that I ever met. He looked out for me when times where tough and I did the same. We spent countless hours talking about how we as Soldiers were warriors and the proffession that we chose was noble. I have never met a man who believed that more than Jason. I deployed to Iraq in 2006. I knew Jason was at FT Riley. On Sept 1 2007 my patrol base was attacked with a suicide bomber in a vehichle and machine guns and mortars. When the car bomb went off we were within 35 meters of the car. All of us survived and fought off the enemey. Only a miracle kept us alive.September 2 we moved back to the FOB and I went to check on my Soldiers. I was in good spirits because we made it through a serious attack. Laying on my Soldiers Bed was a Stars and Stripes newspaper. I read that Jason M. Butkus from West Milford New Jersey had been killed in action. My heart fell to the floor and I screamed for I knew it was Jay. You cannot show your emotions in front of your Soldiers so I went back to my room and cried. It has been two years since Jason has gone away. I believe that Jason was my Guardian Angel that day and took care of me just like he had always done in the past.It has taken a lot for me to write this story and I think about Jason and all the advice he gave me through the years. I know he was there for me and guided me to do the right things. Your son is a warrior and I am proud to have known him and to say he was my friend. Jason will always be the standard that I hold Non Commissioned Officers to. I still feel his presence with me to this day.
James Sackett
August 30, 2009
Here it has been two year since we have lost such a great man. I miss you everyday Jason. You are missed by all of those who knew you. We all still shead a tear when we miss you. I leave later today for the 1-28in 2nd tour to Iraq I ask you to help watch over your brothers. I am glad I got to know you. I am glad I had the honor of calling you a friend.
I found this link the other day and wanted to share it for those who have not seen it
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/jmbutkus.htm
Michael Butkus
August 30, 2009
Hey Jay
I know we have had a lot of conversation's this year and now as your Mom say's it's turned into two. Thank you for all you have taught me. We all miss you a great deal and we cry when we are together or when alone within the quiet moments of our lives. I hope you were not to disturbed on 8/29/2009. They buried another good man down the road from you. He had your Courage,Humility, Honor and like you was a counselor to all he helped and met. Senator Ted Kennedy, I am sure you and he shall meet. Jay,we need you to do one more thing today as we think of you. Reach out and wrap your loving arm's around your loving Mom, let her know, you are the man that people love and miss because of her love and guidance.
Missing You With All Of Me.
DAD
Peggy Childers
August 30, 2009
To the family of Staff Sgt. Jason M. Butkus:
Jason gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Cheryl Bohn
August 29, 2009
Dear Jay,
It will be two years tomorrow and the pain of loss is still as strong as the day the two soldiers knocked on my door. Remember how you told me not to worry until"the knock on the door". Well Jay, let me tell you it's to late to worry then,it's over. Now I feel guilty I didn't worry enough or pray enough or talk to you enought. I felt I didn't have to worry about you. You were a good son, a good soldier and a good man.
I would like to thank all Jay's family, friends and fellow soldiers who have posted notes on Jay's site. Especially 1st Sgt Griffith and 1st Sgt Sowder
Love you Forever, Mom
Jeffery Griffith
August 18, 2009
To the Family of Jason Butkus,
As Jason's 1SG I am extremely proud and Honored to have served with your son. As you know he was a great human being and a great American. Jason was the best NCO in the company, he exemplified what it means to be a soldier. There is not a day that goes by that I do not pause and remember this fine young man. I was truly blessed to have known and to serve with him. May God bless you.
Sincerely
1SG Jefery T Griffith
dennis musgraves
July 29, 2009
Jason, You are still remembered. I can still hear you every time I am in Valdez.
T Butkus
April 23, 2009
March 1, 2009
Miss you Jay... I can't believe it's been over a year since I've heard your voice. I miss our long talks... Well there's no pic's of you growing up, so I thought I'd post this pic of fishing at the Jersey Shore... What a catch! EEL! Yuck!!! PS Thanks for the nice haircut you gave me...I'll never forget all the years with you, but I still want you back home...
Until we meet again big bro.
Love & Miss You,
Tonya
Jay's Big Catch - Ocean Beach, NJ
April 23, 2009
Barbara Alexander
February 13, 2009
Jason M. Butkus was to be my step son. I knew him as a polite, energetic young man. He loved children and was always, smiling and happy to play with them. Jason and I had communicated via phone for a long period of time, in S. Carolina. I had the pleasure of spending time with him in Colorado, with other family members. He was always ready to talk or to help with dishes, playing with children or a game of pool with his dad, Michael. I am truly blessed to have known such a man!
SSG Butkus Correct a Soldier
January 25, 2009
Butkus In Kuwait
January 25, 2009
Brian Sowder
January 25, 2009
To the family of Jason Butkus, It was a pleasure as a Platoon SGT. to train, Build a Platoon and Deploy to Combat with Him in my Platoon. He was a great leader and a Friend. He was one of the best squad leaders I have ever seen in my career. I was fortunate enough to have a great leader to have served under me. He made my Job easy and helped in more ways than I can explain. The day we lost Jason was one of the worst ones in my life. I am sorry that we lost him and I will never forgive myself for not being able to take his place. He is how I judge every NCO who serves in the Army. Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] Once again I am sorry that we lost him and it was great to serve with him. 1SG Brian Sowder
January 12, 2009
Kenna Larra
December 15, 2008
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families at this time. This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna
Joseph Butkus
August 30, 2008
We all still miss you Jason. I hope you are having fun. Love you Uncle Joe.
In Memory of Jason ~ (Debra Estep)
August 30, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Jason, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
July 3, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Staff Sgt Butkus!
Tonya
May 3, 2008
Jay,
If tears could build a stairway,
And memories a lane,
I'd walk right up to Heaven
To bring you home again.
No farewell's were spoken,
No time for goodbye,
You were gone before I knew it,
And only God knows why.
My heart still aches in sadness,
And secret tears still flow,
What its meant to me to lose you,
No one will ever know.
Author Unknown
Until we meet again big bro...
Love and Miss You,
John Wanczowski
February 11, 2008
Man it seems like just yestarday when as a new private showing up to Fort Bragg i meet my new squad leader SSG Butkus. Man he put the fear of GOD in me from the get go. He taught me a lot and help mold me into a leader. I will never forget him and will continue to teach my soldiers as he did to me so that a little of him will live on. You will be missed but never forgotten.
PETER J APITO
January 22, 2008
HELLO MR&MRS JASON BUTKUS,
i AM WRITING YOU THIS LETTER TO LET YOU KNOW THAT AS BEING A VET MY SELF I HAVE A MEMORIAL BRACKET WITH YOUR SONS NAME AMD DATE HE WAS KILLED ON AUG 30 07. I WEAR THIS EVERY DAY IN REMEMBERING YOUR BRAVE SON AND WHAT HE HAS GIVEN UP FOR THIS GREAT COUNTRY.MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALWAYS AND I WILL WEAR THIS BRACKET WITH PRIDE EVERYDAY. GOD BLESS YOU, PETER J APITO. E-MAIL- [email protected]
Arlington National Cemetary December 2007
Amanda
January 4, 2008
These last few days have been especially hard... I thought I was finally coming to terms with reality. I had a brief period where I didn't need to remind myself that 30 August 2007 really happened... Then Christmas came... I started thinking about the Thanksgiving that I was pregnant with Connor and Jay and I drove from NC to NJ to visit our family. I thought about Connor's first Christmas. Jay had just come home from Korea shortly before... Tonight it finally dawned on me why... today is Jay's birthday.
James Brockman
December 3, 2007
Today I learned of the loss of Jason M. Butkus to the world. I had the distinct honor of serving with Jason at Ft. Jackson SC from 2003-2005. When we first met, Jason was a SSG and I was a PFC. We were next door neighbors in the barracks at Ft. Jackson. Initially he distanced himself from me on a personal level (as any good NCO would,) but after persistence on my part we eventually became great friends. I have so many fond memories of Jason it is hard to decide what to write about. EVERYTHING I ever accomplished in the Army I can attribute to the advice, teachings and experience of Jason. Although I was considered a “REMF” because I was a MEDDAC Soldier, Jason was able to overcome that aspect and treated me with respect and dignity simply because we wore the same uniform.
On many occasions I remember marveling at the brilliance and intelligence of Jason. Once, I would say “Jay, it seems such a waste for someone of your intelligence to be in the infantry.” with a smug smirk on his face he replied “ its not a waste, I am doing what I love and as a result I am happy. If a man is happy then there is no waste in his life.” Jason loved being an Airborne Paratrooper, and from what I remember it was what he wanted to do since he could remember. He died doing what he loved to do, taking care of Soldier’s and being an Infantryman.
I would and will often say Jason was the best NCO I never had. I miss my friend, my Sergeant and my brother. My most heartfelt condolences to the family of Jason, your loss is far to great to put into words. Jason will be in my heart forever. When I go fishing , when I see a Soldier, and especially when I have a beer.
Jason, When you arrive at your next duty station in heaven remember the three rules to live by that you taught me,
1. Your only a cherry as long as you want to be.
2. Act the rank you want to be
3. Rank doesn’t mean…….well you know the rest.
I love you brother, I will never forget the time we shared.
Joanne/Rich Albolino
October 10, 2007
I have been a long time friend of Jason's Mom Cheryl, and just today I found out about Jason. No words could possibly express how we feel, just having support from family and friends will help you through this.
Jason is with God now.
I will always be there to console you my friend.
Shane Gosdis
October 3, 2007
I just found out, what a shock. Jay has been a strong person inside an out since I met him in 7th grade. He was the only 7th grader at Macopin Jr. High with a full mustache. To his family and especially his father Mike, who I consider a friend, my deepest condolences.
Michael Butkus
September 28, 2007
To my son in law Mike Torres,Cheryl and her wonderfull husband Ed,To Tonya, Vanessa, Faith, Breanna,Amber,Amanda & Conner and to all that attended the internment service for Jason. How proud and honored I feel to be associated with all of you and the ceremony. The love and care that each person expressed, when words cannot. The hugs, the tears, the expression's of a family and extened family welcoming all, would be something that Jason would be proud of as he looked from above. My little boy that grew to be this man of war, may have received, what he most wanted. An unconditional Love.
Jane McCloskey Talerico
September 27, 2007
Jason, as your mother-in-law, my favorite memory of you is the evening shortly after you and Amanda were married where in celebration of your marriage, Dave grilled a large salmon, I had selected a crisp Riesling to accompany the salmon, and a huge fruit torte with lots of whipped cream for the meal and we all dined al fresco on the patio. My son, Nicholas, and his wife, Pam, had joined us for the celebration. This was a happy time and when I close my eyes, this is my favorite memory of you with our family. We all love and miss you very much and you will always be in our prayers. Every time we hug Connor, we will give him an extra hug for you.
JOSEPH BUTKUS
September 25, 2007
MY NEPHEW JAYSON WAS A FRIEND AND A HERO TO ME ALWAYS. HE WAS A GENTLEMAN LIKE NO OTHER IT WAS IN HIS HEART. I WILL MISS HIM TILL IM GONE. LOVE YOU ALWAYS JAY.
Ginny conklin
September 25, 2007
Jason .just a small apology to my earlier message in your Guest Book. Don't ask me why I said you were born in Mich.. I realized later it was Ill..I knew that.Leave it to your Aunt Gin to mess things up...To that beautiful little boy with that beautiful smile to the young man with that mischevious grin. who turned into a wondeful father , leader and role model to all that knew him and respected him God Bless you Jay ...and we will back to visit you next year ..
Ginny conklin
September 25, 2007
This is for Jay..you will never know how much we all loved you and how very proud of you we are.I can still remember getting that phone call from Michigan from your dad the day you were born..and actually seeing your Grandma Mosser shedding a few tears of joy and happiness.which we all know she never did !!.You brought so much love ,laughter and fun to our entire family with your infectious laugh and smile. I still can hear you say " Hey Aunt Gin & Uncle Dave whats Up? And how you would stop whatever you were doing while working at the Pizza Place to come out and see us and to make sure everything was ok.God Bless you Jay we love you and miss you . Aunt Ginny,Uncle Dave Les, Steve and Dan
Mark Sanderson
September 25, 2007
To the family of Jason Butkus, I served with SSG Butkus in Iraq for 6 months before i was medicaly evaced for wounds sufferd from combat. I will always remember SSG Butkus we were close friends and often shared cigarets late at night after mission contemplating life. I will miss my friend dearly. May god be with him
James Victor Livingston
September 25, 2007
To the Butkus family. I am deeply sorry for your loss. As many others have posted on this site I too served with Jason at Ft.Bragg C/1 325 "RED Falcons. I recall him being a great soldier. I remember when he first came to Bragg that we asked if he was related to Dick Butkus and with a smile he said of course. After leaving Bragg i was stationed at Ft Myer VA and used to conduct Full Honors at Arlington and later became a Relief commander at the TOMB OF The Unknowns.I still reside in Arlington Va after leaving the Army in 2001. I will definiteley make it to the Cemetery to pay my respects to a great man and Honorable soldier.
Frances Sniatecki
September 24, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived. My deepest sympathy to the Butkus family. Cousin
Proud Daddy
Amanda Johnson
September 22, 2007
Jay,
Right now it is 10:30pm AK time and I am packing. I am bringing your Son to see you. He is both scared and excited but he desperately wants/needs to see his Father. There are so many things that were left undone and unsaid. So many answers I will never have. So many lessons you will not be able to teach him.
I find solace in the fact that you lived your dream.
Your boy is proud of his Father.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
September 21, 2007
To the Butkus family; I previously signed Jason's guest book. I live close to ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY and I visit there frequently. Each time I am at ANC I will visit/honor Jason. He will NEVER be forgotten.
Edward Bohn
September 20, 2007
Staff Sergeant Jason M. Butkus was a man who walked among men. Jason had commitment to his country, strong beliefs, positive values, leadership and knew as an American it is important to contribute to our society.
All the men and women in the Armed Services have those same traits as SSG Jason M. Butkus. They are willing to protect us from those who want to harm us and to offer peoples of the world the right to secure a better life for themselves.
God Bless all our members in the Armed Services. We appreciate all your sacrifices and honorable contributions. Your are all Heroes; committed to Duty, Honor, Country.
SSG Jason M. Butkus is standing with all his Brothers. They are supporting your contributions and efforts in spirit.
In the spirit of the Ultimate Weapon, the Infantry Rifleman, "Stand Proud, Follow Me"
Edward Bohn, stepfather and proud to have shared his company.
Kathleen Riha
September 19, 2007
Dear Friends and Family of Jason,
My deepest sympathy for your loss. I remember Jason as the first boy to ask me to dance in fifth grade. I remember traveling the school bus together and hanging out with friends. I remember him fondly he was always very sweet and kind. Sincerely, Kathleen (Mack) Riha
September 18, 2007
To the living I am gone.
To the sorrowful, I will never return.
To the angry, I was cheated.
But to the happy, I am at peace
and to the faithful I have never left.
I can not be seen, but I can be heard.
So as you stand upon a shore, gazing at a beautiful sea remember me.
As you look in awe at a mighty forest and it's grand majesty remember me.
As you look upon a flower and admire its simplicity remember me.
Remember me in your heart, your thoughts and your memories of the times we loved, the times we cried, the times we fought, the times we laughed.
For it you always think of me, I will never be gone.
September 17, 2007
To all the wonderful people out there that felt so moved as to send SSG Jason M. Butkus and his family your heartfelt condolences.
I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
With compassionate and patriotic people like you in this country I can feel Jason didn't give his life in vain.
Cheryl L. Bohn
Mother of SSG Jason M. Butkus
Charles House
September 17, 2007
My deepest and heartfelt wishes goes out to the Butkus famliy for your loss of a truly brave son and father. I met and was assigned with SSG Butkus while at Fort Jackson, SC. We worked together and he kept everyone laughing and smiling everyday. I will truly miss SSG Jason M. Butkus. He was a good friend and comrade. I respect the sacrifice and dedication to the country,the army and to his fellow soldiers. SSG Jason M. Butkus death was not in vain. (SFC Charles House retired)
September 16, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Staff Sgt Butkus and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Tom Smith
September 16, 2007
To the family of Jason Butkus. My heart go's out to you. I served with Jason for 2 1/2 years at Fort Bragg in Charlie Company 1/325. He was a great person and soldier. I have notified a few of the fellow paratroopers that served with him and hopefully they can all make it to pay their respects and be there as he was there to support the United States and fought for everyone's freedom here stateside. He will be greatly missed by many. God Bless.
Christian Walker
September 15, 2007
My heart-felt sympathies go out to Jason's family. I was Jason's roommate for a time while we were stationed at Ft. Bragg. He was a great trooper and it was my honor to have served with him.
GERALD SMILEY
September 14, 2007
TO THE BUTKUS FAMILY,
I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THAT I HAD THE PRIVILEGE TO BE STATIONED WITH YOUR SON IN ALASKA (1-17INF BN) HE WAS A GREAT FRIEND AND I KNOW HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BY ALL. KNOW THAT YOUR SON WAS WELL LIKED NOT ONLY AS A SOLDIER (LEADER) BUT AS A FRIEND. MAY YOU CATCH A SALMON GRAND SLAM IN HEAVEN!!! LATER MY FRIEND
Dave and Colleen Wood
September 14, 2007
To the Family of Jason,
We are truly sorry for your loss. Jason spent many days at our home at Ft Bragg, NC several years ago. We shared a few holiday dinners together with Jason. My husband and Jason spent time together in Egypt, England,(part of the 82nd) he was always a fun person to be around. Thou we have not seen him in a couple of years, he has not been and never will be forgotten.
SFC Geroge Elsaesser
September 14, 2007
To Jason’s Family and Friends,
I knew Jason many years ago when I lived in West Milford and we were both young. It's been a long time since I heard his name, but even though my memories of him are faint, I remember this about him. He was an honest, good person that just seemed to want to take care of people. He is a hero; always be proud of him and from what I have read of him he will be missed and I regret I never got the opportunity to serve with him. I am sorry for your lose.
God speed Jason and God bless
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