Senator Tuberville recognizes sacrifice of Sergeants Ricky Jones of Plantersville, Jason Stegall of Trussville, and Ervin Hullett of Lowndes County
WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) today recognized three of Alabama’s fallen soldiers and their families for Memorial Day. On the U.S. Senate floor, Senator Tuberville shared the stories of Sergeant Ricky Jones of Plantersville, Sergeant Jason Stegall of Trussville, and Sergeant Ervin Hullett of Lowndes County.
Excerpts from the Senator’s remarks can be found below, and his full remarks can be viewed here.
SERGEANT RICKY JONES
“The former star running back at Dallas County High School also known as ‘MoJoe,’ is remembered for being a giving person who was always there for his family and community. Sergeant Jones was known to consistently attend football games to support younger players who aspired to be like him.”
“And his family always knew they could count on him, too. After his mother fractured her hip, Sergeant Jones took leave to come home and help with her recovery.”
“His sister Jasmine recalls him standing at the door of her bedroom to tell her goodbye when the time came for him to return to Afghanistan. She didn’t know that was the last time she’d see him again.”
“He was killed on Father’s Day 2009, leaving behind a wife and four children. Because of the impact he left on his community, Dallas County established June 27th as ‘Ricky DeWayne ‘MoJoe’ Jones Day.’ Dallas County High School also retired his number—Number Three—as a tribute to someone who was a hero to so many—on and off the field.”
SERGEANT JASON STEGALL
“From the age of 10, he knew he wanted to make a difference by joining our military. Even with injuries, and several near-death experiences, this desire to serve never wavered. Sergeant Stegall’s courage saved countless American lives.”
“On one occasion, he helped stop two suicide bombers from carrying out an attack on a U.S. military base in Iraq. Another time, he led his men away from an ambush—despite being shot just beneath his heart. Sergeant Stegall earned numerous awards for his heroism, including a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.”
“Ashley was left to cope with the loss of her teenage sweetheart, and having to raise three sons alone—including 10-month-old Landon. Ashley keeps Sergeant Stegall’s memory alive by reminding her sons about his sacrifice and belief in America.”
SERGEANT ERVIN HULLETT
“On Christmas Day, 1952, Sergeant [Ervin] Hullett’s brother, Arthur, received the news that his 22-year-old brother had been killed in Korea. Both brothers had lived and suffered under segregation and discrimination because of their race. Yet both loved this country and were proud to wear the uniform.”
“Sergeant Arthur Hullett to this day says that he has no regrets about his military service. He also says he is confident that his brother would say the same thing. Alabama is deeply grateful for their strong belief that America is worth fighting for—and even dying for. We will not forget their unwavering devotion to preserving the American dream for future generations.”
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.
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