Chief Jacques J. Fontan, killed when a MH-47 Chinook was shot down in Afghanistan
Jacques J. Fontan, Chief Petty Officer E-7, U.S. Navy
His Bronze Star Medal w/Valor Citation reads:
For heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as Platoon Chief Petty Officer, SEAL Team TEN, while deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 28 June 2005.
As part of a Quick Reaction Force, Chief Fontan was sent to reinforce a Navy SEAL Special Reconnaissance element engaged in a fierce firefight against a numerically superior Anti-Coalition Militia near Asadabad, Konar Province, Afghanistan.
The Special Reconnaissance element was under siege from enemy fire in extremely rugged and unforgiving terrain. Demonstrating exceptional resolve and fully comprehending the ramifications of the mission, Chief Fontan’s element launched aboard a helicopter for direct insertion onto an active battlefield, ready to engage and destroy the enemy in order to protect the lives of their fellow SEALs.
While airborne Chief Fontan continued working with members of his team to develop the plan of attack to support both a Quick Reaction Force and an urgent execution of the intended deliberate assault. As the helicopter hovered in preparation for a daring fast-rope insertion of the SEALs, the aircraft was struck by an enemy rocket-propelled grenade fired by Anti-Coalition Militia.
The resulting explosion and impact caused the tragic and untimely loss of life of all onboard. Chief Fontan’s bravery and heroism in the face of severe danger while fighting the Global War on Terrorism was extraordinary.
By his courageous actions, zealous initiative, and loyal dedication to duty, Chief Fontan reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Chief Petty Officer Jacques J. Fontan was born on 11 November 1968 in New Orleans, Louisiana. He graduated from Brother Martin High School in New Orleans, Louisiana, and attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette prior to enlisting in the United States Navy on 7 March 1989.
After graduating from Recruit Training Center, Great Lakes, he completed Fire Controlman “A” School at Fleet Combat Training Center, Dam Neck, Virginia. Upon completion, he transferred to USS NICHOLAS (FFG 47), Charleston, South Carolina and then to Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron ONE, Jacksonville, Florida. After graduating from Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training at Naval Special Warfare Center, Coronado, California, on 23 October 1998, Chief Fontan was assigned to SEAL Team EIGHT, Little Creek, Virginia, Naval Special Warfare Group TWO, Little Creek, Virginia, and SEAL Team TEN, Little Creek, Virginia.
During his service, Chief Fontan was awarded the Bronze Star Medal (with “V” for Valor), Purple Heart Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (with Combat “V”), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2 awards), Combat Action Ribbon, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Navy “E” Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal (5 awards), National Defense Service Medal (2 awards), Southwest Asia Service Medal (3 awards), Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (3 awards), NATO Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait), Expert 9MM Pistol, and Sharpshooter M4 Rifle. From U.S. Hockey Players Support our Troops FB
Read the Story from Navy Times about the book written by his widow in his honor