On May 15, 2019, Staff Sergeant (SSG) Jacob Alan Hess tragically lost his life during a military training exercise at Fort Polk, Louisiana. At just 34 years old, he left behind a legacy of service, love, and dedication that continues to inspire those who knew him.
A Life of Service
Born on May 20, 1984, in Shawnee Mission, Kansas, Jacob embodied a deep sense of duty from an early age. He joined the U.S. Army in 2004 and quickly distinguished himself as a soldier committed to excellence. Over the course of his career, he completed Airborne School and served in the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg as an engineer.
Jacob deployed twice to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and later transitioned to Civil Affairs in 2013, joining the 97th Civil Affairs Battalion, 95th Civil Affairs Brigade, and 1st Special Forces Group under the United States Army Special Operations Command. He also completed a Mandarin Chinese language course, showcasing his commitment to broadening his skills to serve his country.
His service earned him numerous accolades, including:
- Four Army Commendation Medals
- Six Army Achievement Medals
- Two Iraq Campaign Medals
- A Korean Defense Service Medal
- The Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Posthumously, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Army and his country.
A Devoted Husband and Father
While Jacob’s professional accomplishments were remarkable, his family always came first. He married the love of his life, Jessica, on September 21, 2017. Together, they created a loving home for their five daughters: Crystin, Zoey, Elizabeth, Caroline, and newborn Everest.
Jacob’s family remembers him as a man of compassion and humor, often lightening moments with his witty one-liners and unforgettable pranks. Whether strumming silly songs on his ukulele or sharing quiet moments, he made every interaction meaningful.
A Multifaceted Life
Outside of his military career, Jacob was a man of many talents and interests. He was an accomplished artist, enjoying painting and creating stained glass pieces. He loved working on home improvement projects, scuba diving, and cheering on his favorite Kansas City sports teams, the Chiefs and Royals.
Jacob’s ability to balance the demanding life of a soldier with his personal passions and dedication to his family speaks to his extraordinary character.
A Community’s Tribute
Jacob’s untimely passing left a deep void in the lives of his loved ones and the broader community. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization dedicated to honoring fallen heroes and supporting their families, stepped forward to ease the family’s financial burdens. In honor of Memorial Day, the foundation paid off the mortgage on the Hess family’s home in North Carolina.
This generous act ensured Jessica and her daughters could remain in the home they shared with Jacob, offering stability and a lasting connection to his memory. Jessica, demonstrating resilience, is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work with a focus on serving the military community, a tribute to her husband’s legacy of service.
A Final Farewell
SSG Jacob Hess was laid to rest on May 24, 2019, at Crescent Hill Cemetery in Adrian, Missouri, with full military honors. Friends, family, and fellow soldiers gathered to celebrate his life, share cherished memories, and express their gratitude for his service.
Honoring Jacob’s Legacy
Jacob Alan Hess’s life exemplified devotion—to his country, his family, and the values of service and love. His story reminds us of the sacrifices made by our military families and the importance of supporting them during times of loss.
Organizations like Tunnel to Towers play a vital role in preserving the legacies of heroes like Jacob. By providing financial relief and ongoing support, they ensure that families like the Hess family can continue to thrive, even in the face of unimaginable loss.
Jacob may no longer walk among us, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of his family, his fellow soldiers, and a nation grateful for his service and sacrifice. His life reminds us of the enduring strength and love that define true heroes.