Explosive Ordnance Battalion Memorializes Captain

The 184th Explosive Ordnance Battalion is hoping the carry on the legacy of Captain Jason T McMahon with the dedication of its recently erected headquarters building. The possibility of loss is always there for soldiers and their families, but that knowledge never makes it any easier. In some ways, however, this dedication just might.

McMahon's wife, Jennifer held it together for the ceremony, which featured comments from McMahon's former Executive Officer, but when asked the simple question of what it meant to her the fresh wound took her breath away.

Captain McMahon gave his life September 5, 2010 while serving as the commander of the 744th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company.

Former Executive Officer, Captain Kevin Landreth says he is a better leader because of Mac, as he was affectionately called by all his friends.

He says the feelings were mutual from all the soldiers under Mac.

One of the biggest lessons Mac instilled in everyone was the answer to a simple question.

Landreth says one of his favorite memories is of a short trip the two made around post before the deployment.

He told the group of McMahon's family, friends, soldiers and new EOD techs that was determined and loyal.

But Landreth says ultimately Mac won people over simply by being himself.

Lieutenant Colonel Donald Smith, commander of the 184th Ordnance Battalion, says the building will remind everyone of the person Captain Jason McMahon was.

Following the ceremony, standing in the lobby of the building named for her husband, Jennifer said the whole day and the building was very much what her husband stood for and it is a great way for him to be remembered.

The lobby features a display case with memorabilia from McMahon as well as the citation, which accompanied the Silver Star he was awarded for the fateful day in 2010 as well as photos of him.