Jason C. Perkins

United States Air Force Technical Sergeant and United States Marine Corps Corporal Jason C. Perkins passed away on December 21, 2023, from service-connected cancer, surrounded by his loving family. 

Family meant everything to Perkins, and he was surrounded by a large and loving support system throughout his life. Born to his loving mother, Candice Forbes, and later adopted by his dedicated father, James Perkins, he remained deeply grateful for the guidance and care of his stepparents, Brian Forbes and Melissa Perkins. He also shared a close bond with his siblings, Lisa, Josh, Justice, and Carly. He cherished being a father to his two sons, Wyatt and Ethan, who, along with his service dog Rex, were the center of his world. After his passing, Rex was retired from duty and remained at home with his wife, Hanah, and their children, providing comfort and companionship. 

Perkins came from a family with a long history of military service, with relatives who served in both the United States Army and United States Navy. Inspired by this legacy and a deep sense of duty to his country, he chose to serve in both the United States Air Force and the United States Marine Corps. Service to something greater than himself was a responsibility he carried with pride, and he was honored to play a role in protecting others. In a speech he once gave, Perkins said, “I have spent years overseas keeping your family safe. Please continue forward and keep mine safe.” These words reflect not only his dedication to his country, but also the deep love he had for his own family. During his time in service, he received numerous awards and decorations in recognition of his dedication, leadership, and honorable service. 

A strong and loving partnership began after Perkins met his wife, Hanah, through mutual friends. His sense of humor was one of the many things that drew her to him, and they quickly realized they shared a love for cooking and spending time with family. Together, they built a life centered around family, love, and unwavering support for one another. Some of their most cherished memories were the simple moments spent together with their children and extended family. Fishing, camping, and cooking were staples in their lives, and he especially loved taking his boys, nieces and nephews camping, where they would tell scary stories around the fire and play hide-and-seek in the trees after dark. Teaching the children how to cook, attending sporting events, and spending time together were some of the moments he loved most.  

Service to others was a defining part of Perkins’ life. In addition to his military service, he remained active in local veteran organizations and volunteered his time with collegiate athletics and youth sports. Even during intense chemotherapy, he continued to give back, participating in news interviews to help raise awareness and find stem cell and bone marrow matches not only for himself, but for others in need. Growing and diversifying the donor registry became something he was deeply passionate about, so more people would have the opportunity for a cure. While he carried a tough exterior shaped by military service, those who knew him best knew how deeply he loved and cared for others. He had many honorary family members whom he loved deeply, a reflection of the lifelong friendships and bonds he formed through the military and throughout his life. 

Near the end of his life, a bone marrow or stem cell transplant was needed for an opportunity at a cure. During that time, he and his family participated in news interviews with the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), formerly known as Be the Match, to help raise awareness and encourage others to join the registry. In Perkins’ own words, he wanted to “grow and diversify the registry so others have the opportunity at life or a cure.” After his passing, his family has continued this mission in his honor, volunteering with NMDP and starting a page called “Heroes4Jason” to share registry events in their community. Since October 2023, thirteen individuals who joined the registry in honor of Perkins have gone on to donate stem cells or bone marrow, continuing his legacy of service and helping give others a chance at life. 

United States Air Force Technical Sergeant and United States Marine Corps Corporal Jason C. Perkins is survived by his devoted wife, Hanah Perkins; their sons, Wyatt and Ethan; his adoptive father, James Perkins; his step-parents, Brian Forbes and Melissa Perkins; his siblings, Lisa, Josh, Justice, and Carly; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and the many friends and fellow service members. He was preceded in death by his mother, Candice Forbes. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Perkins family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.