Lieutenant Colonel Jaimie Elizabeth Leonard, a dedicated and selfless servant leader, died on June 8, 2013, in Sharana, the capital of the Paktika Province of Afghanistan from injuries sustained from small arms at 39 years old. LTC Leonard was an intelligence officer with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division. Her life was marked by unwavering commitment to her nation and a profound sense of duty.

Born on January 29, 1974, Jaimie was a native of Warwick, New York. She graduated from Warwick Valley High School in 1992 and embarked on a remarkable journey that would see her excel in her military career. Jaimie’s pursuit of her lifelong dream to serve in the military led her to attend Marion Military Institute on a merit-based scholarship, laying the foundation for her future achievements.

LTC Leonard attended the Marion Military Institute on a merit-based scholarship, and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1997, where she was commissioned as a Military Intelligence Officer. Jaimie excelled as a young officer and she was selected to participate in the Office of the Secretary of Defense Intern Program. Throughout her distinguished 16-year military career, Jaimie Leonard displayed exemplary service, with assignments taking her to South Korea, Germany, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the Pentagon, Fort Drum, New York, and multiple deployments, including three combat tours—two in Afghanistan and one in Iraq. Her selfless devotion to her country earned her numerous accolades and decorations, including the Purple Heart, three Bronze Stars, two Meritorious Service Medals, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, three Army Commendation Medals, and numerous other commendations. She graduated with a master’s degree in public policy from Georgetown University in 2007.

She completed the Intermediate Level Education Qualification and Common Core Courses, the Counter Intelligent Agent Course, the Combined Arms Services Staff School Course, the Basic and Advanced Military Intelligence Officer Course, the Airborne Course, the Air Movement Operator Course, the Nuclear Biological and Chemical Officer Course, and the Master Fitness Trainer Course.

In the face of adversity, LTC Jaimie remained undaunted and unwavering in her service to her country. Her deployments to Bosnia in 1999, Iraq in 2005, and Afghanistan in 2011, followed by her return in January 2013, highlighted her patriotism, selfless service, and dedication to her duty.

LTC Jaimie Leonard was predeceased by her father, Robert Fulton Leonard Jr., and her mother, Patricia Ann Oberst. She is survived by her five loving siblings, Elizabeth Anne Harman, Hannah J. Rudy, Allyson Basha, Samantha Leonard, and Robert Leonard, as well as her stepmother, Sally Asbury Leonard. Jaimie was also the cherished godmother of Kristen Courage, Katherine Kemkes, and Ava Harman. Her memory will be treasured by her nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues. Jaimie was not only a dedicated soldier but a beloved family member and friend, a source of inspiration, and a true patriot.

LTC Leonard wrote a touching article in her hometown newspaper about the true meaning of memorial day.

“Remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country in war but also honor others who sacrifice in other ways to make this country great—law enforcement, firefighters, teachers, volunteers, etc.

“Please honor them in deed and not just giving thanks, parades, or planting flowers or flags on graves. Take measure of what you have done for your country and ask yourself if you could do more.”

Lieutenant Colonel Jaimie E. Leonard is a soldier who died giving everything she had for her country and the principles our nation was founded on. Her legacy will continue to inspire us, reminding us of the remarkable dedication and valor displayed by those who choose to serve their nation. Her memory will forever remain in our hearts, a beacon of sacrifice, commitment, and love for her country.

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