Jody Ann George

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 t...[more]

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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.