"May your precious Jody sleep peacefully until our loving God Jehovah awakens her (John 5:28,29) to life on paradise earth. (Psalms 37:29) Take care (jw.org) "
In loving memory of
Jody Ann George
August 15, 1966 - October 12, 2014
SGM (Ret.) Jody A. George
Sergeant Major (Retired) Jody Ann George passed away unexpectedly on October 12, 2014 at the Scott White Memorial Hospital in Temple, TX, following recent cardiac issues. She was 48 years old. Her extraordinary life was one of courage, caring and sacrifice while serving in the United States Army as a Military Police Officer in peace and war for over 26 years.
Jody, along with her twin brother John, was born in Port Washington on August 15, 1966 to Patricia Wellenstein Binsfeld and Janis "John" Freidenfeld. She attended local schools, graduating from Port Washington High School in 1984, and then enlisted in the United States Army.
Jody was assigned to numerous units in Korea, Germany and the United States, with much of her time at Fort Hood, TX, in the 1st Calvary Division. She deployed twice to Iraq, once in 2004-2005 as the First Sergeant of the 545 MP Company and again in 2007-2008 as the Operations Sergeant Major of the 89th MP Brigade. She also deployed to Bosnia in 1997-1998 as the MP Platoon Sergeant.
SGM George was known for her courage under fire, mission accomplishment and fierce dedication to her Soldiers and unit. She was awarded two Bronze Star Medals and the Combat Action Badge for her exemplary actions and meritorious achievements while serving multiple tours in a combat zone.
Other awards over her amazing career include two Meritorious Service Medals, four Army Commendation Medals, four Army Achievement Medals, The Iraq Campaign Medal with two Service Stars, the NATO Medal and numerous other awards and ribbons in addition to receiving the Order of the Marechaussee for her dedication, devotion to duty and professionalism while serving in the Military Police Corps.
Jody was proud to be a Drill Sergeant and excelled at every military school she attended, notably being recognized as the Honor Graduate of the Army Battle Staff Course and the Honor Graduate of the Navy Senior Enlisted Academy as well as being appointed as Honorary Master Chief Petty Officer by the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. SMG George also earned her Bachelor and Master's Degrees from the Central Texas College.
Following her retirement from the Army in 2010, Jody enjoyed sharing a home in Texas with the love of her life, Michael Ryan, and their furry companions Zeus, Zena and Katrina. She loved spending time outside, taking care of the local wildlife, including some deer that she hand-fed. She also enjoyed scrapbooking and travel, but always looked forward to the return home. Jody had a laugh that would make you laugh with her, and the sound of it ringing through the air will be missed by all who knew her.
Besides Michael , Jody is survived by her parents, Patricia and Richard Krug of Port Washington, two brothers: John Binsfeld of Jackson and Chad Binsfeld of Cascade, three sisters: Charlene (Regan) Binsfeld-Schmitt of Cascade, Michele (Harold) Haas, also of Cascade, and Cindy (Brent) Groothousen of West Bend. She is further survived by 11 nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by grandma Clara Wellenstein, uncle Robert Wellenstein and her father John Freidenfeld.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, November 8th at St. Peter of Alcantara Catholic Church. Father Patrick Wendt will preside. The family will receive visitors at the CHURCH on Saturday from 10am until services at 12 noon. Military Honors will follow the service.
Her family is very proud and grateful to have had such a generous and giving person in their lives.
Tributes
".....Pals....."
"It's been a long while but I grew up in Jody's neighborhood. I recall telling her the military was a crazy thing to do. I could not understand such a choice. Always pretty she seemed to tan by the moon; perhaps I was sexist. She knew what she was doing, was incredibly mature and made the right choices."
"I am so sadden to hear of the loss of one of my battle buddies...a true HERO. Jody, you will be truly missed, you are an inspiration to us all!!! "
"I'am verry said about hearing the news about Jody this morning, I can't say no long words but me an a lot of friends have meet Jody here in Luxembourg as a good friend when she was in Germany. I wish your family a lot of courage and we will never forget Jody in Luxembourg Manuel"
"I am so sad to hear of Jody's passing. :( We met overseas for the first time, and she was my running buddy in MPI School in 1988 (Vilseck, Germany). We would sport around town in her jeep I loved so much. Later in our Army career, we ran into each other again in BNCOC at Ft. McClellan, AL in 1992 and caught up on on each other's lives. She always had a smile and a kind word! I thought of her often over the years and wondered where she was and how she was doing. I don't know how I stumbled across this article today, but my heart is heavy having learned about Jody. I pray for all of her friends and family members and that God comforts all of you during this very difficult time. I love you Jody! "
"My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Jody was my Drill Sergeant Battle Buddy 1995 - 1997 Ft. McClellan, AL (C/795). She was always motivated and loved training new Soldiers and touched the lives of hundreds a true professional. Jody will be missed. SGM Bradley Cope"
"Jody Ann Binsfield! Lie SGM Gordon, we met in 1984 at Fort Ord and we all were living the dream. Our crew at Ord replaced the childhood friends from our hometowns and it was awesome. Jody and I crossed paths several times during our career and would occasionally talk via e-mail. My heart is deeply saddened at the loss, but I know she lived a good life and her light will continue to live on in the loves of those who knew and loved her. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. Rest in peace my sister. "
"I first met SGM George when I was with the 545th MP Co., Ft.Hood and I was contemplating on getting out of Army because I was pregnant with twins----she talked me out of it and made me believe in myself as a Soldier and soon to be mother. I am thankful for her professional guidance but most of all--- I am grateful for her personal friendship and sound advice on life. I am honored to have known her. You will never be forgotten SGM and I hope to see you again some day. God bless."
"I had the pleasure of working with Jody at III Corps for 4 years, she was an outstanding and professional Soldier in every sense of the words, she was much more, however, she was an awesome individual and beautiful lady. I loved being around her and sharing stories. She could make you smile regardless of the kind of day you might have had. She will be sorely missed by many and forever remembered by all who knew her. God Bless, my condolences to the family and friends and R.I.P. Jody. "
"So very sorry for your loss. Thank you for your service SMG George. We are thankful for your courage and devotion to our great nation. May the family you leave behind be comforted knowing you were loved and appreciated."
"You will always be rememebred by those who served with and for you. I will never forget the numerous one on one talks we had and the great mentoring that you provided. You were one of the best leaders and friends that I have had the honor of knowing. "
"This is a very sad day, not just for the family of Jody, but for the many people around the world who consider Jody more than just a friend. Jody meant a lot to my family and I; I was planning a trip up to the Killeen area to take her and Mike to dinner. Such a loss can never be truly understood, God must have needed more security at the Gates. Rest in peace Jody, I will always remember you and miss you! Love your baby brother!"
"I am so heart broken. She was such a strong woman and helped me to see so many strengths in myself. She also believed in me during some difficult times and understood the difficulty of being a woman in the Army. Her support and caring will never be forgotten. I miss you SGM. I know the angels are holding you and you are in heaven singing beautiful songs of peace. Much love always. "
"The first 1SG I had after Basic/AIT, SGM George led us into Iraq and back again. A strong leader I always knew I could count on. I am proud to say I knew and served with SGM Jody George."
"I'm am very saddened to hear of this SGM George was my Deputy Commandant at Fort Hood. She always had an encouraging word and a big smile for everyone. Her heart was pure and living yo all. She will indeed be missed. God be with her family during this time. A true warrior. "
" My deepest and sincere condolences to Jody's family. I first met Jody when I interviewed her to become an MP/MPI member of the CID/MPI Drug Suppression Team (DST), Ft Ord, CA (circa: 1986-88). Jody was a newly promoted SP4 at the time. Jody became a very valued member of the DST -- handling informants, working covertly and making undercover purchases of drugs from identified military and civilian drug dealers. They were always shocked - surprised!! She was highly respected by fellow MPI, CID, DEA and Civilian Law Enforcement agencies working drug suppression activities in the greater Monterey and Santa Cruz County area in California. I retired from the US Army and CID in 1988 -- as Jody went on to start her US Army career. I am VERY PROUD to learn she had an outstanding career!! You did it right Jody -- always "Of The Troops and For The Troops." Well done young lady -- well done!! We all loved you -- and will miss you -- but it was my honor and privilage to have served with you. Rest in Peace Jody. "
"Absolutely the best senior NCO I had the pleasure of knowing in the Army. Top, you will be missed and forever loved."
"My condolences to Jody's loved ones. She was my Battle-Buddy and Right Hand and a tremendous example of caring and compassion to all our Soldiers and Staff at the III Corps NCO Academy. I will miss her professionalism, her counsel, and her friendship. Rest in Peace, my Sister!"
"I grew up with Jody and her family. I always refer to Rich as my second father and have to believe he past on his attributes to Jody. From reading what she was like as an adult from her fellow soldiers I have really missed out on knowing an incredible person. That pain along with what I feel for her family is very hard to deal with. I can only pray that we meet again on the last day. Rest in peace Jody. See you then"
"I met SGM George while deployed to Iraq in 2004-2005. Her office was next to our 1st CAV Div EO Office. She always had a kind word to share. She will be truly missed. So sad to hear of her passing. She was one of the female SGMs that I was very proud to say I added tools to my tool box from her. RIP battle. "
"On behalf of all the members of the 545th MP Company Association, I wish to convey our condolences to the family and friends of SGM Jody George. She was a great soldier and MP and most of all a fantastic 545th MP. She will be missed by many "
"I met Jody in 2000 and was her 1SG briefly before she went to EOA school. She and I would run the golf course while she would fill me in on my new unit. I became friends with her and we kept in touch throughout all of her follow on assignments. I'd see her after she retired and we would talk about old times and laugh. She had a beautiful smile when I first met her and a beautiful smile the last time I spoke with her. A very caring a giving person and great Soldier. Very sad day. Be at peace Jody. "
"On behalf of the entire Office of the Provost Marshal General, our deepest condolences and sympathies. She was a true Soldier, leader and warrior. Our hearts go out to her family and friends. God bless. "
"I remember my first encounter with SGM George I was a SSG in the 89th and she worked in the 89th HQ. SGM George went out of her way to give me some pointers about being a platoon Sergeant. I was lucky enough to be in the 545th when she took over as 1SG she was a great mentor and friend. We had a lot of great times in Iraq. SGM George used to out on missions with my platoon all the time. The soldiers just loved her being there. She was one of the main reason I was who I was. I used to visit her all the time when she was Commandant at the NCOA and she would still continue to mentor me. The world is a lesser place today since she has gone to be another great SGM in God's army. I am truly sadden that I lost such a great friend and mentor. SGM George was truly lived the NCO creed and inspired others to live it too. Let us all bow our head and thank God we had the privilege to know and serve with her. Thank you SGM George for always being there when I needed to talk to someone! "
"I serviced with George in Korea at 8th MP Bde. She will be missed my many. She impacted many soldiers, friends and family members. Gone but Not Forgotten."
"My condolences and prayers to Jody's family. RIP Warrior - I will see you on the high ground. John Spivey SGM (Ret), USA"
"After fighting back tears since discovering my dear friend has passed, I wanted to share some memories of one of the most sweetest women I knew in my lifetime. Jody Ann and I first met in 1984. She and I were roommates at our first duty assignment at Fort Ord, California. We were both crazy, young PVTs, freshly enlisted into the Army. She and I shared a friendship which spanned over a 30 year period. I am saddened by her passing, but I can look back and smile at the events which we shared. A few memories which stick out in my mind is when we used to sneak up onto the roof of the company barracks to catch some "rays" and work on our tan. Our 1SG wasn't too happy with us when he discovered we had dubbed the roof "Binsfeld Beach" (named after the discoverer, of course). I guess the 1SG chalked it up to 'that's what PVTs do' and really didn't punish us for our antics. I wonder if he ever knew we kept going up there? As a young PVT, Jody hated running and sometimes battled with her weight. I remember we shared the 'hate' for running. We often had conversations about how we both would probably never 'cut it' in the Army due to our inability to run with the big dogs. We never gave up though, and often went for evening runs on the sandy beaches of Seaside, California in efforts to improve our running skills. She and I enjoyed going to the 'club scene' in Monterey, California and would often wake up the following morning, look over at each other, still hung over, and would swear we would never, ever party like that again! We always did though because we were living the dream. Two young women who had been blessed to have an ocean front assignment as our first duty station weren't going to pass up the experience. We left Ord and found ourselves in Germany. We were able to visit each other and kept in touch over the years. We were blessed and found ourselves stationed close together again when she was stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland and I found myself at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Meade and Belvoir are a very short driving distance apart, and we found comfort knowing a dear friend was right down the road. I went on to work at the Department of the Army Headquarters in Alexandria and somehow found myself headed off to be a Drill Sergeant soon afterwards. I remember this conversation like it was yesterday. I called Jody at Fort Meade and said, "girl, I'm headed to Drill Sergeant School and I'm afraid. Go with me! Go to Drill Sergeant School with me!" She laughed it off and said there was no way we could NOT do it together, and to sign her up. We would both watch after each other, as we had over the previous 10 years of service. We both showed up at Fort Jackson in the summer of 1994, and when I saw her, I was ecstatic. Jody was no longer fighting her weight and ran like a jack rabbit! I improved my running skills, but not to the "A Group" standard like she had done. I was so proud of her and remember hugging her neck knowing and believing we could concur the world! It was shortly into our training at Drill Sergeant School that she had an emergency medical situation which required her to go into surgery within hours. I told the instructor I would be there, period. Dock me, throw me out of school, I didn't care. I was going to be by her side when she went into surgery, and I was going to be there when she woke up in recovery. I went on to graduate school and move on to Fort McClellan and Jody followed a few months later after she went through a later class and graduated. Funny thing, she was with me spiritually during school. I could hear her voice telling me to keep pushing until the end. That's the least I could do, right? Once we both were down at Fort McClellan, she and I were neighbors. We didn't plan it this way, but we lived in a nice civilian community, directly across from each other, we were literally next door neighbors. We rarely saw each other due to our busy schedule as Drill Sergeants. We would occasionally pass one another on the way to/from work at o-dark-thirty, but we still knew neither one was too far away if we needed anything. So after our 2 years of Drill Sergeant duty, I started working on having a few rug rats and remained there at McClellan. Jody went on to Korea and was doing her thing. When I went into an emergency c-section surgery to have my Michael, guess who flew in from Korea? Yep, Jody. I cried when I saw her face. It was a face and smile which brought me comfort. I knew with her there, nothing could go wrong. We found ourselves stationed together a few more times and deployed in Iraq together. We often shared significant life events, and as I look back now, I realize it's quite ironic that we both ended up spending our careers as Military Police, and yes, we both made it to the top of the ladder, and ran with the "Big Dawgs". Often, she and I would argue over who was more awesome. She would say that I was her role model, and I would argue that she was more my role model. We both lost contact with each around Christmas 2013. Jody and I shared a beautiful friendship, and I will miss her more than I could ever express. I love you Jody Ann Binsfeld and you will always be my 'big dawg' sister. My prayers and thoughts to her family and loved ones. "
"I cannot believe this!! SFC/MSG/1SG/SGM George was one of the greatest and most influential people I have ever met. She was always willing to go the extra mile for her Soldiers and continually put their needs above her own. There are not enough words that I can say. She will be missed by all the 545th MP troopers and CAV MP's in general. Thank you for the memories I would not have achieved as much as I had if it were not for you. God Bless you, we have lost a remarkable person."
"Gone But Not Forgotten. May she Rest in Peace."
"Jody will be sorely missed. She was a mentor, a friend and someone who always had time to talk with you. She was a vibrant person who enjoyed her life to the fullest. Rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family."
"My sincerest and deepest sympothy.. We were stationed at Fort Hood together and deployed to Iraq. I looked to her as a strong role model for all young Soldiers and I trusted her advice and judgement she so willingly shared with me when I was a Battalion Commander. There were few females in leadership positions in the 1st Cavalry kind regards"
"My deepest sympathies for Mike and all of Jody's family and friends. Sadly, I did not know Jody during her Military Service, but her reputation preceded her. I met her here at Fort Hood after she retired and she was still caring for our Military. An amazing woman - always there with a kind word, sweet smile and infectious laugh. Her heart truly was as "Big as Texas." Sweetheart, You will be missed. I feel privileged to have known you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time. ~Marebear"
"SGM George fought for her soldiers-she was truly a 1st Class Act, no one can compare to her-she held her own on every account. In June of 2005, she came to my unit, and wanted me to go with her to
89th MP, asked that I be released to go..and I would proudly have gone-to follow a female soldier
of her reputoire would have been to follow a legend!
The George family can be proud of her legend, and
all whom she touched.
"
"Sadly many of our Military Police hereos do not get to enjoy retirement due to the life they lived to protect their country. Many of my friends and former military police have died suddendly after retirement due to various issues most likely related to their exposure to various toxic substances in foreign countries and battle fields. SGM George should not have left us so soon, she will be missed but never forgotten as long as we keep her in our memories. RIP Jody."
"Godspeed Sergeant Major. "
"My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family of Jody George. I knew her as a young MP platoon leader and crossed paths with her during deployments. A true professional and MP leader who will be missed."
"I give my condolences to her family, know that she has a Military family that will also be missing her. This saddens me deeply, Jody was the first female Senior NCO that I looked up to. She had worked so as not to be known as just another female Soldier, but as a Soldier that did all the things she was supposed to at 110%. I've thought of her fondly for many years and appreciated everything she did for her Soldiers and the mentoring she did for me. She didn't judge or treat people on what she had heard, she judged on their performance, commitment and heart. She was an amazing person that touched many peoples lives. "
"I'm very sad to hear of your passing. You were my Drill Sergeant when I reclassed in 95 before they shut down Anniston. I worked for you again at the PMO and again in the MO Co. At Ft Hood. It was Jody who convinced the commander to let me go to school when the Brigade was locked down for deployment. I simply caught up with the war later as she suspected. She was always there for the soldiers. It was her that made my dreams come true."
"Jody you will be missed dearly. You were there for me through thick and thin. No matter the issue you had my back. Thank you for being my leader and friend."
"Condolences to SGM George's family during this time of grief."
"I served with Jody Ann George in Iraq in 2004-2005. She was my 1SG and in my 20 years of service I have never served with a more professional and caring NCO. She always had the ability to inspire her NCO's to lead by example and inspire her soldiers to not only accomplish the mission, but to do so with honor. SMG George you were a true worrior, CAV Trooper, and hero. You will be truly missed by all who served with you. God bless you and your family."
"I can remember her behind me at her desk, along side me in convoys in Baghdad, and her extraordinary drive. She demanded the best from everybody she knew, and we did our best to give it to her because she was a fantastic leader and person. She will be missed by many and her legacy lives on in all of us. Rest in peace, SGM. "
"I am very saddened to hear of Jody's passing. I had the privilege of meeting her while serving in Iraq and she was a true professional! My thoughts and prayers go out to her friends and family. "
"Jody was our First Sergeant and a great friend to me as a young lieutenant on our first combat tour in Baghdad, Iraq. She looked out after all of us and is a huge part of why we all made it home after a year of missions there. First Team's Finest, Top. You are loved and missed dearly."
"I am so sorry for your loss. I can't even put into words what I'm feeling for all of you at this moment. (Hugs to you Cindi, mom, and dad) with love, Rochelle Phillips"
"I am so sorry to hear this. We grew up living across the street from each other. I remember many fun times we shared growing up. She will be dearly missed by all. I am so glad that I got to know her."
"I am shocked and saddened to hear of Jody's passing. We grew up together and I spent many days at her house with John. We met up again after I was in the Marine Corps and Jody in the Army. I was very impressed with her. She knew what she wanted and she did. She had an amazing life. It is so sad that it has ended so early. My deepest sympathy to the entire family. "
"Please accept my condolences on the loss of your loved one."
"Dear family of Jody: Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your dear loved one. Death is such a tragedy for all of us, and when it touches us personally, few of us find the comfort that we search for. And death itself leaves so many of us with unanswered questions. However, many have found comfort in God's Word the Bible. The Bible teaches that soon, God will swallow up death forever and wipe the tears from all faces. (Isaiah 25:8) God also promises to reunite us with our dear loved ones, by means of a resurrection, right here on earth, and we can live life to the full in paradise, that will be filled with peace, happiness and perfect health for everyone. What a wonderful hope and prospect this is. (John 5:28,29; Revelation 21:4; Psalms 37:10,11,29; Isaiah 33:24) As you read the above texts in your Bible, may the wonderful hope they give us, along with loving memories, bring you a measure of comfort during this most difficult time. Sincerely: David Cowles"