Jeremy Ryan McQueary

United States Marine Corps Sergeant Jeremy Ryan McQueary tragically passed away on February 18, 2010, when an IED detonated while he was serving his third combat tour in Afghanistan.

Raised in Columbus, Indiana, McQueary’s childhood was characterized by a strong work ethic and an eagerness to please. After his father’s early passing, his mother raised him and his older sister. He enjoyed the outdoors, participating in camping, hiking, wildlife photography, and ATV riding. Mechanically inclined, he quickly learned new skills. Despite an initial fear of water, he achieved the highest level of swimming proficiency in the Marine Corps and was even offered the opportunity to become a swimming and water rescue instructor, an accomplishment he held with great pride.

Inspired by a long line of service members in his family, McQueary felt a profound desire to serve his country from a young age. The events of September 11, 2001 solidified this calling, leading him to graduate high school a semester early to attend boot camp sooner. He was eager to offer support where needed, serving two deployments in Iraq, one in Afghanistan, and over a year in Okinawa, Japan. During his distinguished service, McQueary was recognized for his practicality, rationale, and patience. His calm approach to problems, coupled with his gentle nature and tremendous sense of humor, made him a respected and favored leader. A talented wrecker operator, his skills and ingenuity were highly sought after, leading to his request to join Route Clearance Platoon 3, Mobile Assault Co., 2D Combat Engineer Battalion in Afghanistan. He was also well-known for his Scottish Terrier, Mac, who became like a mascot for the 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion.

McQueary received numerous achievement awards, including the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with V for Valor, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon with 2 Stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with 1 Star, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, NATO Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Expert Rifle Badge, Sharp Shooter Pistol Badge, and National Defense Service Medal.

McQueary met his future wife, Rae, through a double date arranged by her friend. Before the date, Rae’s friend described a few of her friends to McQueary, and after hearing about each one, he laughed and said, “I would like the redhead, please!” Although Rae wasn’t immediately charmed by the story of how she was chosen, her friend convinced her to meet him—and it didn’t take long for McQueary’s contagious smile, quick wit, and unwavering positivity to win her over. Rae is deeply grateful to have stood by his side through boot camp and each of his deployments, offering unwavering love and support.

McQueary was an amazing storyteller. Rae and him loved traveling to new places and exploring small towns near where he was stationed. On the road, McQueary would share stories about his deployments or his day at work, always with such enthusiasm that it felt like you were part of the story. They loved daydreaming about the future and the adventures ahead, including their small cabin in Brown County, Indiana, which they visited whenever they could. They cherished the excitement of making the 12-hour drive home for short 96-hour weekends to see family and friends. Becoming a father brought McQueary immeasurable joy. He embraced the role with love and pride, treasuring every moment with their son Hadley before his deployment. It became one of the most significant and treasured moments of his life.

McQueary’s legacy is a testament to the vibrant energy he shared throughout his life. He was a courageous leader with a gentle soul, whose smile and positivity were infectious. He led with compassion and grace, and his ingenuity, intelligence, and kindness left a lasting impact on those around him. In his final moments, McQueary volunteered to transport equipment into Marjah, Helmand Province, to assist with building searches, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his Marines and his commitment to lightening others’ burdens. He is remembered not only for his ultimate sacrifice but also for the encouragement he offered, the trust he instilled, and his ability to find beauty in every situation. 

United States Marine Corps Sergeant Jeremy Ryan McQueary is survived by his loving wife Rae, and their son Hadley.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the McQueary family with a mortgage-free home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.