Jason's family will find some comfort in the awarding of the Bronze Star knowing that he gave his life for his brothers in arms. But the pain will still be deep and searing. Prayers for them and for you.
I didn't know until leadpenny's post that the Governor will be lowering the flags on the statehouse, I can't help but think that Jason would have laughed over all this fuss. :-)
Jason was an intense fellow even when were young. Some people thought he was crazy and avoided him. He wasn't, he was just misunderstood. Those of us that were close to him just knew that Jason didn't trust very easily. If you were his friend there was nothing he wouldn't do for you.
He could have a look on his face that was unsettling and VERY intimidating. We avoided a lot of fights in high school because of that look on his face. People would back off because they didn't know what he would do. We were a little scared of what he would do since he was very overprotective of his friends. He could back up that intimidating look with action and everybody knew it.
When I think back on those times I am just in awe of how cool it was to have a friend like him. I'd be willing to bet that his friends in the Army would have followed him into hell because they knew what we did. If Jason was on your side, you had every right to feel protected. He was as tough as nails.