(SFC) Sergeant First Class Justin Samuel Dee Sprague. Born on November 29, 1984 in Jacksonville IL and departed suddenly on November 23, 2024 in Jetersville, VA. Survived by his daughter Cadence, mother; April Sprague; sisters Kelly Grizzell, Lisa Sprague (Russ), brother Paul Sprague(Julie) and childhood best friend and brother Brian Camp (Brittanie) Nieces: Summer, Sophie, Finley Nephews: Cody, Quintyn, Sam

Also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends all over the world who will miss him dearly. Proceeded in death by his father Stanley Cox, grandparents, Rosie and Lester Sprague, nephew Charles and niece Lesley. As a child Justin was a firecracker. Wild, full of life, and some might even say a little mischievous. You could catch him running the streets barefoot, being an outlaw boy scout, or pranking his friends and family-It’s how you knew he loved you. Justin was omniscient, a knower of all. He studied people, places, things, history, science-you couldn’t win a debate with him without passion or knowledge of a subject. He loved inventing and exploring, ideas were endless to him. He had a contagious laugh, that we will never forget. Justin’s self proclaimed biggest accomplishment was his daughter Cadence. He took an immense amount of pride in sharing stories of their explorations together, and her passion for art, and how she’s grown through the years. He loved being a Dad more than anything else in the world. He graduated from North Greene High School in 2003. From there, First Class (SFC) Justin Sprague honorably served his country as a dedicated member of the Army National Guard. His journey began at Fort Benning, Georgia, where he graduated from Basic Training on August 15, 2002. He proudly joined the Illinois National Guard, serving with the 634th FSB Charlie Company Medical Unit as a 68W Combat Medic.

On July 31, 2003, Justin earned his Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification. He was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) from September 7, 2004, to September 6, 2005. During this deployment, Justin’s commitment to his comrades and his mission earned him the prestigious Combat Medic Badge, awarded on November 17, 2004. His dedication was further recognized with the Meritorious Service Medal.

Justin continued to advance his career, graduating from Radiology Specialist School on January 22, 2008, where he earned the honor of being placed on the Commandant’s List. He also completed the Basic Non-Commissioned Officer Course on May 15, 2009. His professional growth included completing Level 2 Combatives on March 17, 2010, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his role.

In 2014, Justin transitioned to the Virginia National Guard, where he faithfully served until his retirement in 2016. His 14 years of service were marked by unwavering dedication and an enduring sense of duty.

Throughout his distinguished career, Justin earned numerous accolades for his exceptional service. Among these were the Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, and Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Mobilization Device. He was also awarded the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Achievement Medal (2nd Award), Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, Military Attendance Ribbon (3rd Award), and the State of Illinois Military Long and Honorable Service Medal (1st Award).

Above all, Justin’s legacy will be remembered not only for his accolades but for his compassion, leadership, and tireless dedication to his fellow service members. His impact on the lives of those he served with and his love for his country will never be forgotten.

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