July 24, 1984 – December 12, 2003
Jeffrey is remembered today and every day. His service is eternally honored.
Private First Class Jeffrey Francis Braun, a compassionate and driven young man, made the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country in Iraq on December 12, 2003. He was just 19 years old.
Born in San Pedro Sula, Honduras on July 24, 1984, Jeff was adopted by his loving parents, William E. and Meredith E. (Monti) Braun, and grew up in Stafford Springs, Connecticut. He graduated from Stafford High School in 2002, where he excelled in sports, including soccer, track and field, and wrestling. Jeff was also active in music and the service corps, and worked at local businesses. As a member of St. Edward Parish, he served as a lector.
Jeff’s life was characterized by his unselfish nature, love of life, intelligence, enthusiasm, and desire to protect the less fortunate. He had a grand plan for his future, which included serving in the military, becoming a physical education teacher, and building an orphanage in his birth country of Honduras. His family is committed to seeing his dream of an orphanage realized by December 2004, ensuring that his legacy of compassion lives on.
As a paratrooper with the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division, Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, Jeff bravely served his adopted country in Iraq. His dedication and meritorious service were recognized with the Army Commendation Medal, presented to his father by Brig. Gen. Richard Rowe.
Jeff touched the lives of countless people with his generous spirit and unwavering determination. He never hesitated to stand up for the underdog, whether it was rescuing a turtle on the side of the road or stepping in as a goalkeeper during a soccer match. His friends and family remember him as someone who was never afraid to try something new.
Left to cherish his memory are his parents, William E. and Meredith E. (Monti) Braun; his devoted sister, Julie Braun; his maternal grandparents, Francis and Ruth Monti; an uncle and aunt, Rod and Lisa Monti; a cousin, Zoe Monti; and a host of family members and dear friends.
Though his life was cut tragically short, Private First Class Jeffrey Francis Braun lived an honorable life, dedicating himself to serving others and pursuing his dreams. His sacrifice serves as an inspiration to all who knew him and to the nation he so bravely served. May his memory be a blessing, and may his legacy of compassion and courage endure.
