Army CPL Jason D. Fisher
A Corporal with Maine ties was killed in an army training accident Nov. 14 in Louisiana. Army CPL Jason D. Fisher was one of two soldiers who was run over by a 63-ton tank during training exercises at Fort Polk, LA.
The two were members of the 101st Airborne Division who had served in Afghanistan. They were training with about 400 fellow soldiers from Fort Campbell, KY, at the Army’s Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk. Fisher and one other solider, were assigned to the 101st Airborne Division’s A Company, 2nd Battalion, 187th Regiment.
The 101st Airborne is a rapid deployment, air assault division trained to go anywhere in the world within 36 hours. After fighting in Afghanistan, about 4,000 soldiers from the 187th Regiment had returned to the U.S. in August. Fisher is survived by his wife, Tara, and step-son, Christopher, both of Clarksville, TN. Through his father and extended family, Jason has ties to Maine.
During the Run for The Fallen Maine, I met with Jason’s father, a 28 year career Navy man named Paul Fisher. Paul and I spent some time together under the shade of a big white tent before the events of the RFTF kicked off for the day. Paul shared with me that his son was the oldest of three boys and he was killed in a training accident after surviving many dangerous situations in a combat theater to include an RPG round in Afghanistan. Jason worked alongside Special Forces and was proud of his service to his family and his country.
Jason was the oldest of three boys, all of them joining the military, following the great legacy of service and patriotism of their father. Paul was the enlisting SNCO who welcomed them in the service and joined two of his sons in the Army and his youngest son in the Navy. In fact, Jason and the next oldest son, Joshua, both attended infantry boot camp together and have many of the same stories from their early training days.
I asked Paul this question during our time together this past Sunday in Brunswick, Maine. I said Paul — When someone takes this stone and hikes it all over Maine and all over the world, and they honor and remember your son — what do they need to think about?
Here is Paul’s answer — “Jason was the nicest, kindest and most gentle, loving and loyal man you would every find.” He waited to enlist so he could join with his brother. He adopted his wife’s son. He was called Angel by his family. He was calm, collected, composed and so generous. He collected and distributed packets of hot cocoa and chocolate to his troops just to increase their morale.
IF you want to honor Jason you will find a place that service Heineken and serves hot wings. Find some live guitar music or play your own. Jason loved playing his guitar and making music.
Paul told me that many people often mistook his sone for a “doped up, drugged up, counter culture son of a gun” but he was the most respectful, kind and loving man you would ever meet.
In fact, Jason liked to wear Goth punk attire and his ever tolerant, but former military dad responded with a pretty fair offer – “Wear whatever you want, as long as you get good grades.”
Turns out, among all his other qualities of kindness and loyalty, CPL Jason D. Fisher was an ace of a student.
Maine Heroes are NOT Forgotten.
djc
32 Comments
On October 17th, I had the honor of carrying Corporal Jason D. Fisher’s stone up Cadillac Mountain. The day began early, and we gathered beforehand with all of our fellow hikers, families and volunteers. I didn’t know anyone on my hiking team, and this was my first TSP event, so I had no idea what to expect. It became abundantly clear immediately how much this event means to everyone involved. Volunteers worked tirelessly setting up the base camp in advance of the hikers’ arrivals. Some hikers had participated before and shared stories of previous events, and many others were new to TSP like myself. It was easy to make connections with these strangers, however, since everyone had a common reason for being there – we were there to honor each of these fallen soldiers. We were there to learn about not only the soldier whose stone we were carrying, but the soldiers carried by team members. We learned about their families and who the soldiers were as civilians. We learned about each other, and we learned so much about ourselves.
It was an absolute honor to carry Jason’s stone and share his story. The honor didn’t stop after the closing ceremonies on October 17th though. This event was the most moving, emotionally raw experience I have ever had, and I will carry Jason’s memory and story with me forever. I will continue to share his story and honor him and his service to our country. The night before the TSP hike, I toasted Jason with a Heineken and told his story to anyone who’d listen. I will continue to toast in Jason’s honor whenever Heineken is served, and say a prayer of peace for his family. Thank you for allowing me the honor of carrying Jason’s stone. May Jason, his spirit and his story live on and be told by many. Maine Heroes Are Not Forgotten.
After participating in the Run for the Fallen this year with the Summit Project stone for Marine MAJ Samuel C. Leigh I knew I wanted to bring my experience to others and let them be as moved and changed as I was. I requested the chance to bring The Summit Project to our Veterans Day Remembrance 4 Mile Road Race this past weekend.
I was originally assigned 10 names of soldiers we would be honoring, and I assigned those to the 9 runners who readily stepped up to carry and myself. When I arrived at MEPS in Portland to collect our stones I was informed that four of them had been replaced with new stones. Knowing that it made no difference whose stones we carried, I gladly accepted all ten into my custody and went to work reading about our four new heroes.
After reassigning the runners with the three new names, I began to really read about Army CPL Jason D. Fisher. I learned that his father was at the event that really drew me in. We were there together under that big white tent! I wish I’d had the chance to shake his hand and say thank you. Carrying Jason’s stone became my way to say thank you to Paul and his surviving two sons for their service. What an amazing family. Three sons following their father into service. And, Jason, as the oldest leading the way – waiting for his younger brother and then serving side by side. It reassured me that this stone was meant to be mine.
I read about how Jason was gentle and kind. He was invested in his unit and the overall morale of his brothers and sisters in the service. Collecting and distributing hot cocoa and chocolate to boost their spirits. It takes a special person to see beyond their own circumstance and make efforts to improve the circumstances of others.
Before the event I had the opportunity to do an interview with a local news station that would air later that night. As I spoke about carrying Jason’s stone I realized that Jason’s mother watched all three of her sons enlist, and I realized how terrifying that must have been for her. I thought about my own son and how proud I would be if he chose a life of service to our country, but, also, how I might never sleep again if he was deployed. I didn’t cry in the interview, but I did later in the day when I tucked him into bed – safe and warm.
The event was cold. A strong, cold wind blew off the river for four long miles. I had the pleasure of running with another man carrying the Summit Project stone for Army PVT Dustin R. F. Small – we talked about our soldiers and the conditions they endured in their deployments. We reminded each other that the winds blowing into Dustin and Jason’s faces held sand that cut their skin and stung their eyes. We completed the distance and gave thanks for the opportunity to lay down the weight of the stones we were carrying – recognizing that the burden on a fallen soldier’s family can never be laid down.
For the afternoon event I offered Jason’s stone to a veteran who joined us, as she had not been able to carry a stone in the race. As I handed his stone to her she clutched it to her chest, and I knew she appreciated his service and sacrifice as much as I did. Jason will never be forgotten. When I run along the race route (as I often do in training), or climb the mountain (as I do at least once per week in warmer months) and when I eat hot wings, or drink hot cocoa – I will remember.
Thank you Paul, for offering the opportunity for me and others to carry a stone in remembrance of Jason, and thank you for raising such a loving, kind and selfless man. Thank you to Army CPL Jason D. Fisher for your service and sacrifice for my freedom. #mhanf <3
I had first learned about the Summit Project a few weeks prior to our 4 mile Veterans remembrance run and I thought what a great honor it would be to carry a fallen soldiers stone. Unfortunately, all the stones had been assigned to other people in our town, fellow veterans, police officers and other pillars of our community. Knowing that they would be in the most protective hands I felt very proud running beside those people, my friends.
After the race, the volunteers that had the privilege of carrying the stones through the race wanted to continue paying tribute to the soldiers that gave up so much for us by hiking up Blue Hill mountin. I felt compelled to join them, even though I would only be tagging along I really had a deep feeling that I needed to be there.
After arriving at the meeting point the coordinator asked if there was anybody there that would like to carry a stone that did not have the opportunity to do so earlier in the day. I quickly stepped up and volunteered with great pride and honor.
During the hike up the slippery leaf covered trial I held Jason’s stone as tight as I could, in fear that I was going to drop it. Not knowing anything about the person whose name was etched on the stone, I allowed my mind to wander back to my Army days and to the days that each one of my brothers were deployed overseas. 5 times my mother had to say goodbye to one of her children, not knowing if they would come home. And I also thought of his parents knowing they had that same feeling and worried every time they saw conflict on the news.
When the trail got steep and I wanted to stop to take a break, the weight of the stone in my arms kept me going. Knowing that that weight was nothing compared to the sacrifice of this US soldier.
When we finally made it to the top of the mountain we all took a moment to remember our fallen soldiers. The Sun was starting to get lower in the sky and it was shining on the water below us. Many of us were quiet and solemn and others shed tears.
It wasn’t until after I had gotten home later that evening did I learn about the person who stone I was carrying. I cried a littler more with each story I read but also became more proud to have been able to be part of the Summit project. God Bless.
It was December 4th when my group and I had the honor to carry Jason D. Fisher up Bradbury mountain. The experience was incredible for me seeing as though I had a great grandfather that was a private in the US Army. The whole time I was climbing that mountain, all I could think of was how It must have felt to loose someone close, I was thinking about the sacrifice that was made by all those who served. I enjoyed the experience and I felt as if I have honored my great grandfather and Jason both by climbing that mountain. I feel grateful and honored to be able to bring Jason’s rock up and share his story with the world. These soldiers will never be forgotten and it’s because of the summit project that we are able to make that possible. I am thankful to have carried Jason’s Rock and I thank him for serving our countries.
My experience during the trek to the summit of Mt. Bradbury with the stone of CPL. Jason D. Fisher could be described by many words; Among those are “powerful”, “emotional”, and “weighty”, in more than one sense of the word. I carried the stone for about half a mile until we reached the summit, and during that time, my mind never drifted away from it. I was concentrated wholly on the task at hand, what it meant, and how it was representative of Jason’s impact on those around him.
My arms and legs were tired, my breathing was heavy, and I was getting the sense that others had the same feeling. My arms couldn’t hold the stone for much longer, so I had to move it to my backpack, which I had a friend help me with. It struck me that this man’s legacy was his kindness to those around him, and how much he loved to help those in need. Throughout the rest of the trip, my friends relied on one another, talking, laughing. It was really hard to be tired when everyone supported each other so much, which, I feel, is what Jason would have done.
I am very glad to have participated, and I would like to thank Jason for his service, and his family for being part of the summit project and honoring him this way.
I will have the honor of carrying Jason’s stone on our (Patriot Rider’s) spring charity ride.
On May 19, 2016 our JROTC battalion had the honor of carrying the stones up Big Moose Mountain in Greenville. I was lucky to have carried CPL Jason Fisher’s stone and have the opportunity to learn about who he was and about the service he gave. As I read about him, I learned about how loyal and kind he was to his family and his fellow soldiers. When we started the hike up the mountain there was a slight overcast. The hike up to the mid point was pretty leisurely, but soon after the halfway mark the trail became more steep and difficult. As I climbed the narrow stone steps and felt the weight of the stone on my back began to grow heavier, I realized the connection that I had with this person that I never had the chance to meet. Once our group had reached the summit of the mountain we all rested, looking over at the great view. We then started the ceremony, all of us stood and spoke a few words about our service members, who they were and the meanings behind the stones. After the ceremony the clouds came together and it began to rain and hail. The trip down the trail was very slippery, but we made it down with only a few slips and falls. All and all, I believe that everyone had a memorable day honoring and remembering these service members.
At the TSP at BSP 2016, I had the honor to carry the stone and the story of CPL. Jason D. Fisher. I want to thank you for giving me this opportunity. I did my research before the weekend to better learn about Jason. I was reading words like “gentle, loving, loyal, calm, collected, composed and generous.” You also don’t get the nickname “Angel” by chance. Jason is a man that all good men strive to be. His core qualities are ones that I hope to have some day.
When one of the wonderful volunteers approached me saying that Jason’s family would like to meet me. I immediately felt like I was walking into a job interview. I just hoped that I was worthy enough to carry his stone. During dinner that night, I honestly felt like time was frozen and it was just the 3 of us even there though others were around. It was so wonderful to hear stories and see pictures of Jason. It was also great to learn about the entire Fisher family. I think as I get older I’m getting better a recognizing special moments while they are happening. Spending this time with you both was one of those moments for me.
During the hike I could feel the weight of my pack and I knew Jason was with me the whole way. When we gathered near the top to share what we learned about our assigned Fallen Heroes, I didn’t feel like I was speaking about a stranger. We now had a connection and a strong bond. I shared with the group much of what I learned and some of the things we spoke of at dinner. As you now know, I don’t like Heineken beer but as promised, a few times a year I will order one and slowly drink it, as a toast to Jason.
Your son will often be on my mind and his story will always be in my heart. I hope that our new friendship continues and I also hope to meet the rest of the Fisher family in the future. Take care and thank you.
Ray Ruby
My name is P.J. Laney, I live in Newport, ME. On 10/1/16 at Acadia National Park I had the honor and privilege of carrying the memorial stone for CPL Jason D Fisher to the summit of Cadillac Mountain. Thank you Paul Fisher for sharing Jason with me; I appreciate learning more about Jason from you.
I think I was more nervous about hiking this hike than I was setting out to hike Mt Katahdin this summer. I had researched the trail for Team Bubble; hiking Pemetic North Ridge Trail then up Cadillac West Face Trail. The combination of carrying Jason’s stone, what it represents, the weight of it, the steep exposed granite ledges and the possibility of rain caused me to worry.
In doing research online combined with communications with Jason’s father, Paul, I found reassurance in learning about Jason and encouragement from my husband, I had the courage and mental strength to complete this hike. I learned that Jason was a Rakkasan, assigned to the 101st Airborne Division’s A Company 2nd Battalion, 187th Regiment. He had served in Operation Enduring Freedom and was an infantry team leader during Operation Anaconda. The Rakkasan’s motto is Let Valor Not Fail. This prompted me to seek out the definition of Valor – Great courage in the face of danger. I kept this mantra in my head leading up to the hike. Reminding myself that what I was about to face could not compare to the dangers Jason faced during his deployments and ultimately the training accident that took his life.
Jason was described by fellow soldiers as an outstanding team leader, inspiring others with his positive attitude. His ability to see the “glass half full” made him an exceptional soldier. The battalion commander said Jason kept everybody’s morale up; no matter how tough, how bitter cold, how rainy, how hot, he always had a cheery disposition. His father said he would hand out packages of hot cocoa and chocolate to help increase the morale of his troops. I carried a bag of miniature chocolate bars to share with my teammates during our hike in honor of Jason. Paul also shared that his son was the nicest, kindest, most gentle, loving and loyal man you could meet. I thought it was cool that Jason enjoyed playing guitar and liked to wear Goth Punk. I image he would have been an interesting person to get to know.
Two weeks before the hike my in-laws were visiting from Alabama. During lunch at the Old Mill Pub in Skowhegan I shared Jason’s story with them. While we were waiting for our food to arrive my mother-in-law noticed the drink menu holder on the table had Heineken across the bottom. And when we went to an antique store down the street she immediately pointed out the 20 to 30 guitars on display for sale. It touched me that after sharing Jason’s story with her she could find these connections around us. I had been trying to come up with a way to pay a small tribute to Jason for my hike. I was excited when I got the idea to paint my nails in a gothic tribute. It made me smile thinking about how he might appreciate the subtle touch of romantic mystique.
During the morning hours just before the hike I picked up Jason’s stone to place it in my backpack. In my hands this stone felt solid and heavy. I tied an aqua bandana around the stone before I placed it in my pack. Once I put my pack on my back I did not notice the heaviness of the stone, even though I could feel its presence against my back.
We were very fortunate to have a beautiful day for this hike. As soon as we crossed the threshold of the trail head, entering the woods, all concerns and worry of the hike disappeared from my mind. I was excited about the challenges the trail had to offer and I kept smiling thinking about who I was carrying with me. I was inspired to stay upbeat and positive even through some of the strenuous climbing on the trail. I enjoyed chatting with each person on our team, working my way up and back and back up again through the ranks. I think Jason would have enjoyed the comradery and teamwork shared on this hike. There was one section of the hike when we were descending Pemetic toward Bubble Pond; the trees were very tall, the forest floor was a lush green and the trail was comfortable. I was at the head of the team, with everyone behind me; as I was chatting with Angie Gay I noticed how melodious the combined conversations were among all of the team members. It was so good to feel all of the positive energy we were sharing. Ahh, we had our tough moments on our hike but we persevered as a team and are better for it!
I had brought notes of what I had learned and wanted to share about Jason. I wanted to ensure I shared with everyone the essence of Jason and I wanted to do right by him. I shared quite a bit about Jason but even with notes it’s hard to not get distracted by your feelings and thoughts. Jason did invoke his positive spirit during our hike and I found courage to face what I was scared of about this hike. I was sure to share my gratitude several times that it had not rained!
I carried Jason’s stone for a day but I will always carry his spirit in my heart. I will continue to look to you Jason to inspire me to seek positive energy in my toughest situations. I hope for Jason’s family that my reflection can give you comfort knowing you son, brother, husband and step-father continues to be an inspiring leader. Thank you for the opportunity to get to know him. He is not forgotten.
Dear family of Jason,
I just finished hiking Table Rock Mountain with campers who all have a parent or sibling currently serving in the military. This is what two children had to say about carrying Jason
“I carried Jason D. Fisher down the mountain. This is my second year with the Summit Project and I believe it is a great idea. Jason seemed like an amazing guy and I know we all have someone like that in our life and I couldn’t imagine losing them.” – Paxton
“During the Summit Project, I carried Jason D. Fisher up the mountain. Jason seemed like he was an exciting and loving character that could’ve made much more of a difference in the world if it weren’t for that fateful day on November 14th. It was very unfortunate that he passed.” – Indigo
I would like to personally thank you for sharing Jason and his life with us and others who take part in this amazing program.
To the family and friends of Jason,
Two weeks ago, Michael Keighley and I hiked up Table Rock Mountain in Maine with 44 teenagers who all have a parent or sibling currently serving in the military. They carried 28 stones up the mountain that day. Here is a letter from the campers that had the honor of carrying your hero.
“It was an honor to carry your son, Jason. His story was very inspirational and touched me in a special way. The hike was very challenging but the fact that I was hiking for him helped push me through. Thank you for this experience and opportunity. I am so sorry for your loss.”
– Ryland Kimball, Christian Reed, Lucas Jordan, and Caymen Zephir
To all who have honored my son, I truly thank you. This is a wonderful way to keep memories alive and provide some comfort and closure. Thank You again.
Respectfully yours
Paul Fisher
I had the pleasure of honoring Army CPL Jason Fisher’s legacy by carrying his stone for TSP hike on 10/14/17.
I would like to thank Jason & his family for their service.
Jason nicknamed “angel” was known for being gentle & kinda, it was great to spend the day reflecting on all his admirable qualities .
Doing this hike is an experience I would strongly recommend to anyone.
I’m the future every now & then I plan to order wings & Heineken & toast to Jason. ❤️
On Nov.11th 2017, I was honored to carry CPL Jason D.Fishers Memorial stone up Blue Hill MTN on this very brisk and cold wintery morning. It was my first TSP event , an overwhelming one., lead by Joelle an amazing TSP coordinator!
As we reached the summit we all shared stories of our fallen heroes a truly touching and amazing experience.
I reminded myself on that cold blustery hike of how Jason would keep up morale no matter how cold, how hot or how rainy it was he always had a cheery disposition and would hand out hot chocolate to his troops to boost morale! ( Many words come to mind when I think of Jason, brave, gentle, loyal and composed, and by his family ‘ Angel’.)
The following day I had the privilege of running the 4 mile Veterans run with Jason, wrapped in an AirForce towel and into my pack back, we began our run!
I felt his presence and promised him not to stop even on those hills I pushed thru as I knew Jason would, he was with me all the way. Carrying his stone for 2 days was a very powerful experience for me, as a military spouse (AirForce)for over 20 years and now a military Mum for 3 months, it’s immense pride I carry with me. Jason I will share your story, never forgotten!
Jason, thank you for your Sacrifice and your dedication to Service.
Rest In Peace!
Thank you all so very much for for time and effort to continue to remember Jason’s legacy.
Dear Paul,
Thank you for sharing the legacy of your oldest son, Cpl Jason D. Fisher with me last week. It was truly an honor and privilege to carry his stone and his spirit up Cadillac Mountain and share his story with the team at the top. At the afternoon ceremony, I truly felt like I handed him back to you.
The overwhelming sadness and grief I sensed in your eyes that morning took me by surprise. I felt it deep in my heart and carried it with me all day. I wasn’t just carrying a stone of a Maine Fallen Hero – I was carrying the memory and spirit of your son. The boy you raised into a fine young man who you were honored to swear into the military. The young man who gave to others, played guitar, and who people called an angel. I took your grief and sadness with me up the mountain.
With each step, each beautiful ocean view, each word I spoke to Jason along the way, the heavy emotions were shed. Together, Jason and I climbed the mountain helping our teammates, honoring the flag, and proudly being a member of The Summit Project.
When I returned Jason’s stone to you, I felt another layer of closure was happening. My true joy came when you sought me out after the ceremony and we spoke. Your eyes were filled with kindness, happiness, and peace.
Paul, I can only hope that my carrying Jason’s stone gave you a moment of peace and contentment. Thank you for allowing me a glimpse of your family.
May God bless you and your family,
Sincerely,
with love
Jennifer Simmons
Thank you for your kind words. There is not a day go by where I am not thinking about Jason.
Carrying Corporal Jason Fisher’s stone for my second TSP event was a very humbling and powerful experience for me. Of the many lives of fallen heroes that I have heard about, in the circle ceremonies and elsewhere, there are always commonalities between these men which set them apart. Common values and characteristics such as true selflessness, bravery, genuine love and caring for others, and so many more, which makes it so hard to accept that these are the people who have died in such tragedies. It makes you wonder why it seems that only the good do die young, but the truth is that these values and traits are held by all servicemen, because serving one’s country and sacrificing oneself for the greater good and for the protection of others is the most selfless act someone can chose to perform, and it is what all of these men have chosen to do. These traits and such strength is necessary to endure service, and these men not only display such strength, but exceed far beyond the norm and do whatever they can for their fellow soldiers and their country.
Jason is certainly no exception, which is very apparent in reading how highly he is regarded by those close to him. His commanders say how he was such a great motivator and leader to his fellow soldiers, that he could turn any man’s weakness into strength, and when they lost him their unit as a whole was not as strong as it was with him. As I learned more it is clear why he was so loved and respected by everyone who knew him, he was so generous and caring, his family even called him by the nickname “angel” which is so beautiful to me, it shows how special these individuals are and what they have given up and sacrificed for the greater good.
As I hiked with Jason’s stone, I tried to adopt his mindset and focus on supporting my teammates in reaching our goals, while also thinking about the difficulty Jason and all service men and women endure. When the hike got tough or my pack got heavy, or when the weather made it so uncomfortable to keep going, I just thought about the much worse conditions and much more difficult missions that i’m sure Jason and his brothers faced while serving, I imagined Jason was there to motivate me and make me stronger to not just complete our goal, but embrace every step and appreciate what he and his brothers have done to allow me to be in the beautiful and safe Maine wilderness at that moment, and the real reason as to why we were there which was to honor and remember all of our fallen heroes.
I want to thank TSP for creating such a beautiful and meaningful tribute to the most important members of our society, the ones who have made possible and fought for our freedom, and made the ultimate sacrifice in doing so. I want to thank Jason’s family for allowing me to be a part of keeping Jason’s memory alive, because he seems like someone I would have loved to know and spend time with, being such a unique yet genuine person, listen to him play his guitar, and cheers with a couple of cold Heinekens.
To the family and friends of CPL Jason D. Fisher,
As I have come to find out as a participant in The Summit Project, there are no coincidences. Everything happens for a beautiful reason. I had the pleasure of meeting Jason’s father, Paul, at a separate, unrelated event a little over a month before TSP@ANP this year. When I received my stone assignment, I had tears in my eyes as I drew the connection from the stone to his father together in my mind. As I began to research Jason’s story and gained some additional heartfelt stories from Paul, I realized that Jason was one incredible soul lost too soon. I did my research with an ice cold beer, some hot wings, and some classic rock guitar tunes playing in the background—I figured I owed that to Jason (and I thought about how I had been donning that punk rock style of his back in the day myself!).
This hike was extra special to me, as it was my daughter’s first TSP experience. She did amazing and I couldn’t be more proud to walk alongside her as I carried Jason’s stone in my pack and his story in my heart. We shared Girl Scout cookies with our team of hikers on the hike toward the summit (I recall hearing about Jason doing something similar with chocolate to boost spirits, so I figured some of those cookies sure could do the trick). At the ceremony at the top of Cadillac, I shared with my team the story of how the word (and the actual animal) Fisher appeared to me in 3 separate events during the day I received my stone assignment. I shared that it was at a Girl Scouts of Maine event where I had met Paul as a fellow co-facilitator (hence our choice of sharing cookies as hiking snacks). And I was blessed to share some of Jason’s incredible achievements in his life and career.
Paul, I could feel your immense love and pride for your son in every sentence you shared. Every word I have heard used to describe Jason was that of the highest regard and respect. Selfless, kind, gentle, composed, generous. I also know that those who know you, Paul, use the very same words to describe you. It was an absolute honor and privilege to carry his stone and share the many wonderful stories that have been told
about Jason. Please know that I will forever be grateful to have met you and will do my part to ensure that Jason’s memory and story will forever live on.
MHANF
Sincerely,
Courtney Evans
I had the honor of carrying the stone of CPL Jason D. Fisher for the Veteran’s Day Remembrance 4 Mile Race on November 10th. This was my second time carrying a stone for TSP and was very moving and motivating for me. I have been struggling lately and wasn’t even sure I would be able to complete the whole race but the moment we started I knew he was there with me. Any time during the race that I wasn’t sure I could keep going I just tucked his stone closer to me and pushed on. Not only did I finish but as I crossed the finish line I knew he crossed it with me.
Thank you for your service and sacrifice Jason and for giving me the extra push.
To the family of Cpl Jason Fisher,
I had the distinct pleasure of carrying the stone and sharing the story of Jason for the 2109 Blue Hill Hike. It was briskly cold November day, but we were blessed with a beautiful blue bird sky with an ocean view. It was absolutely perfect. The path was slippery at times as there was still a slight dusting of early snow…but I knew I had precious cargo on board and needed to take extra care of Jason as he was my fellow companion for this hike. Every step I gingerly took, I thought of his bravery, courage, and sacrifice. I thought of the pride and love from his family that continues on over time, now in his memory. Raw and true, the emotions came flooding over me and I had to push ahead of my hiking party for a moment just to take a few seconds of solitude to take it all in and let those immense feelings wash over me. He was taken too soon. Far too young and much too soon.
Fate is funny sometimes. I have come to understand that there are no coincidences with anything TSP. This was my second time sharing a hike with Jason and of sharing moments of his service, sacrifice, and life at the summit. Our paths continue to cross through TSP and other areas in my life…and as they do, I will continue to share his story with all that I meet. It is truly an honor to have shared these moments with Jason and I am forever grateful to you for sharing your stories of him with all of us.
Until the next time we meet again—MHANF,
Courtney
❤️
Thank you Ann, Courtney, Ebony, for all of your kind words and thoughts….sometimes our paths cross in mysterious ways. Jason was a great kid (strong young man)…….
A personal tribute to Army CPL Jason D. Fisher
During moments of thoughtful remembrance, my Dad, a veteran himself, would say to me in our native French, “Nous ne les connaissons pas tous, mais nous leur devons tous… (We don’t know them all, but we owe them all…). These words were emblazoned in my thoughts as I was making my way up to my “chapel” carrying the story and spirit of CPL Jason Fisher.
My name is Alain Ouellette. I am the son and father, of military veterans of my own and so paying due respect to our fallen is a privilege I take with pride, and with humility. While circumstances did not allow our experience to be a shared one with my TSP brethren, my solo hike made it possible for me to remain focused on the objective…the mission…my mission.
My mountaintop location has for years been a place for me to ponder, to sort things through, to give thanks, and to remember events and people in my life. Though I never met Jason, I felt the urge to share my special “chapel” with him. Doing so meant I had to subdue and overcome physicals pains and limitations of my own to reach a place I had not been able to visit in nearly one year. Nevertheless, the mission was of greater importance than the slight pain by comparison, that CPL Jason Fisher’s family experience to this day. While my simple but heartfelt sacrifice to achieve my goal was so small by comparison, it was done with genuine and sincere respect and honor befitting a fallen hero.
The hope that I someday meet members of Jason’s family will afford me to share more deeply what I experienced and to that end, may The Summit Project shine its light on those who weep, and for those to honor.
MHANF
My name is Graham Gardiner, During the hike to the summit of tumbledown mountain I was carrying a rock for Jason Fisher. He was the nicest, kindest, most loyal man you would find. He waited to join the army so he could join with his younger brother. His family called him angel. He was so calm and collected and generous. When we got to the summit we took a short break at a pond almost on the top. When the rest of the class got to the top we took turns sharing about the soldiers we had carried rocks up for. After everyone shared we placed the rocks in a circle on the ground and took some pictures and started the hike back down. Thank you for your service CPL Jason D. Fisher
Thank you for the unique perspective in honoring my son….I appreciate your sacrifices in order to carry my sons stone to your “Chapel”. I appreciate all that you have done to honor him.
We started to climb Tumbledown mountain at 9:30am with a stone in our bags. In my bag I had the honor to carry up Jason D. Fisher stone. The hike started off easy with flat ground. At a mile up the mountain that where it starts to get difficult it started to get to the point where we basically had to start climbing. Climbing up the mountain can be very challenging but when we got to the pond it was worth it. At the pond is where we ate our lunch after that we talked about our stones. We got in a circle and one person after the next talked about the backstory about the stone they carried up the mountain. The stone I carry up Jason D. Fisher was 27 years old, in the army as a CPL, and was an amazing student. Then a fellow JROTC student put all our stones into the shape of a heart with an American flag in the middle. I was one of the students that when up on the summit it had an amazing view. Then we put the stones back in our bags and went back down the mountain which was a little easier than coming up the mountain. I’m glad I went up this mountain. I had a great time and I’m very proud of myself for bringing up the fallen soldier’s stone.
Today I had the honor of carrying the stone of CPL Jason D. Fisher, who died in service to his nation as a member of the famed 101st Airborne Division. My wife Grace was also carrying a stone, and our plan for several weeks was to summit multiple peaks of the Bigelow mountains. Our plans changed, however, when fate determined that our venue would change and we would not be completing our TSP trek on our own. We were joined by our six year old daughter, Claire, and our three year old son, Joel. We opted to complete a hike closer to home at Great Pond Mountain near Orland, ME.
As I made my way up the trail, I had several opportunities to watch my family walk ahead of me. I felt thankful that I get to share these moments with those I care most deeply for. I thought of the additional ten pounds in my pack, and the man those pounds represented. CPL Jason Fisher gave his life for his country, for the men and women next to him, and for his family. I am reminded, as a Veteran, of my responsibility to make the most of my life to honor his and all Veterans’ sacrifices. My wife and I made a point of including our children not only in the summiting, but in the purpose of our summit. It is my hope that our children continue to honor these brave men and women and carry their stones to whatever summit fate chooses for them. That these names live on forever as a reminder not only of their sacrifice, but as a reminder that we owe a debt to honor their sacrifice. I am forever thankful for CPL Jason Fisher and will keep his family in my thoughts.
Thanks again to all for honoring my son’s memory. I appreciate all the kind thoughts and memories.
Dear Family of Army CPL Jason Fisher,
My heartfelt condolences on your loss of a beautiful soul. I had the honor of carrying Jason’s stone with The Summit Project at Acadia National Park on Saturday September 25, 2021. Although the weather prevented our assent up Cadillac Mountain that day, carrying his stone on a short ruck instead made just as much of a powerful impact. For it’s not only the physical challenge while carrying his stone, it’s even more so the emotional challenge of carrying Jason’s story.
As a hiker we always look for any similarities between ourselves and the service member whose stone we carry. Things that will help us connect to them. Since I signed up last minute for the hike, I crammed as much research as I could and the more I read, the more connections I found. There were many things about Jason that stood out about his personality, his character. A morale booster and someone quick with a joke to lift another’s spirits. He shared his care packages with his fellow team members. It speaks volumes about who someone is at their very core when they are always looking out for others. His wife, Tara, referring to him as Angel is a marvelous description.
Please know that Jason will be thought of regularly and his name will be spoken often. Whenever I visit one of my favorite local restaurants, a little Irish pub down the road, Jason will be in the forefront of my mind when I place my order of wings. Now when I see a Black Ford F-150, a smirk will cross my face. And should someone dressed in goth cross my path, it will most definitely draw a giggle out of me.
Thank you for sharing some of your stories with me before the hike. The stories make an impact on those who hear them, just as Jason made an impact on those who knew him. Rest assured, Jason will not be forgotten.
I knew Jason Fisher and was deeply saddened to hear about his passing. Jason was the first new friend that I made at the start of my freshmen year in high school in September 1990. I was a timid kid, ripe picking for bullies. But Jason helped me learn to stand up for myself and for that I’ll always be grateful to him. We stayed friends all through high school and had a lot of good times together.
The last time I talked to him was in 1995, seven years before his passing. I didn’t learn about his death until 2005. But I will always think of him and remember him as a cherished childhood friend who bravely sacrificed his life in service to our country. This year, November 14th, 2022, will be the 20th anniversary of his passing in 2002. I am leaving this comment here as a memorial for my fallen friend and a reminder that he is loved and remembered.
Army Corporal Jason D. Fisher, assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, 187th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion, (Raider Rakkasans), was participating in a predawn realistic warfare training exercise at the Shughart Gordon mock village in Fort Polk, LA on November 14, 2002, when he was run over with an M1A1 Abrams tank. He was 27 years old.
He had served in Operation Enduring Freedom during a deployment to Afghanistan from January to June of 2002. He had spent six months as an infantry team leader and participated in Operation Anaconda in March of 2002, which was the first operation in Afghanistan to involve many US forces participating in direct combat.
Fellow soldier, Sgt. Jason Gill was quoted as saying of Cpl. Fischer that “He was an outstanding team leader. He could take their faults and weaknesses and make them a soldier. That’s what was great about him. It’s going to be hard without him because he used to take the weaker soldiers and make them strong. He was also known to be “the nicest guy you’d ever meet” and just had a way of making the people around him feel good. He was credited as being a “glass half full kind of guy.” His battalion commander said of him “Fisher was one of those rare humans that could make light of any situation. He just kept everybody’s morale up. No matter how tough, how bitter cold, how rainy, how hot, he always had a cheery disposition.”
Jason was the oldest of three boys, all of which joined the military. He went to boot camp with his next oldest brother, Joshua (the youngest joined the Navy). Jason waited for Joshua to enlist just so that they could go together. He adopted his wife’s son, was calm, sweet, and generous. He would collect and distribute packets of cocoa to his troops to help increase morale. Jason’s father, Paul, spent 28 years in the Navy and lives here in Maine, and says that if you want to honor Jason that you need to find a place that serves Heineken and hot wings, preferably somewhere with some live guitar music as Jason liked to play himself. I think the next time I make a stop at Pat’s Pizza or maybe Geaghan’s I will have some wings and a beer for him. I likely won’t find any live music there, but maybe I can find a patron to humor me for a minute. Jason went against the grain, wearing goth punk attire. I don’t happen to own anything along those lines, always admired it, but never had the guts to dress that way. Maybe I should add a little more black to my wardrobe in Jason’s honor.
We hikers with the Summit Project like to talk about how none of this happens by accident. We get paired with our stones, and there’s always a connection and it’s always at the right time. At first I was frustrated during my research into this special man that I couldn’t seem to find my connection with Jason. Then, I lost my Grampa while he was having bypass surgery. His nickname was “Angel Bob” because he’d always show up at the right time to lend a hand, and he was just the sweetest and most patient man that ever lived. My grandfather lived 76 years, but I still think that he was taken from us too soon. Jason was another soul that was taken from us too soon. He too was nicknamed Angel by his family and was known as the sweetest and most thoughtful man by those who knew him.
The hat my grandfather always wore, and the one I took from his house days after his passing, and the hat I carried with me on this hike was a baseball cap that he had won in a raffle that was sponsored by and bears the name of the company Fisher (snow plows).
Because of the timing of my Grampa’s passing, I didn’t have the heart to reach out to Paul to talk about Jason; but I know that both of them understand. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Paul doing Girl Scout stuff, so I’m sure I’ll have the chance to talk to him in the future about his wonderful son. And I also think maybe Jason chose me knowing that I would need his kindness and understanding during this year’s hike and the days leading up to it. Thanks for picking me, Jason. You won’t be forgotten.
Today, 7/14/23, I had the honor of carrying Jason’s stone during a hike with L.L. Bean’s Veterans EBRG. We hiked at Wolfe’s Neck State Park and luck was on our side with the weather. What was supposed to be a dreary, cloudy day, ended up feeling like one of the brightest days of the season (this Summer has been incredibly wet!). It was a positive sign that this hike was supposed to happen.
I’m so grateful for the information shared here from Jason’s family and for everyone who was able to carry his stone before me. Reading all the stories really brought Jason to life for me. Being nicknamed “Angel” by his family, being a leader that folks looked up to and respected, and being someone who was always boosting morale and supporting others… Jason was the kind of person that I constantly aspire to be. Reading about his character and choices inspires me to be the best possible version of myself.
My initial connection to Jason was the fact that I currently have a friend that is serving in the 101st Airborne Division. It scared me a little to be reminded of the fact that he’s not safe just because he’s stateside. This career isn’t for everyone, and it isn’t just hazardous overseas in combat, these men and women are constantly living in an elevated state of danger every single day. I can’t put into words what a sacrifice that is and how much it is appreciated.
The second connection- or, not connection, but the deepest respect I could possibly have for someone, is the fact that he adopted his step-son. I grew up with two older half-siblings, not that we ever acknowledged the “half” part, of course. I learned very early in life that nearly any male can father a child, but it takes a true man to choose to be a dad to their son or daughter. Knowing that Jason was a dad by choice resonated so deeply with me and said everything I needed to know about his character.
Thank you, Jason, for your service and for those you’ve been there for and helped in this world. I’m glad that I was able to bring back your memory for those around me. The hot weather didn’t really lend itself to providing hot chocolate or chocolate bars for everyone, but I did bake up some brownies for folks, so I hope I did you proud! I’ll be sure to have some hot wings and- if someone twists my arm enough- a Heineken in your honor. Thank you.
Gone but never forgotten.