In Memory of SFC Adam Donaldson, US Army
March 28, 1984 – November 15, 2021
SFC Adam Donaldson was born on March 28, 1984, to Thomas Donaldson and Bobbi Helmacy. SFC Donaldson enlisted in the United States Army on August 1, 2002, as a M1 Abrams Tank Systems Maintainer. He attended Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky.
SFC Donaldson served as an M1 Abrams Tank Systems Mechanic in 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, Fort Carson, Colorado; 1st Battalion 35th Armored Regiment, Baumholder, Germany; 2nd Squadron 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, California, and 1st Battalion 16th Infantry Regiment, Fort Riley, Kansas. His deployments include two combat deployments to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, one operational deployment to Poland, and two operational deployments to the Republic of Korea.
On July 29, 2020, SFC Donaldson reported to Fort Stewart, Georgia, 2d Battalion 7th Infantry Regiment India Forward Support Company, where he was assigned as the Field Maintenance Team Chief for Chosen Company. He successfully assisted in the deployment of the Battalion’s combat power into the INDOPACOM theatre. In January 2021, SFC Donaldson was selected to serve as the Battalion Maintenance Control Sergeant. In this position he led the maintenance team in maintaining the highest operational readiness rate in the Division.
SFC Donaldson awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (4 Oak Leaf Clusters), Army Achievement Medal (7 Oak Leaf Clusters), Valorous Unit Award, Army Good Conduct Medal (6 Awards), National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal (2 Awards), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, NCO Professional Development (3 Numerals), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (6 Numerals), and Driver And Mechanic Badge (4 Awards).
Adam was born in Dover, New Hampshire. Moving to Maryland at a young age, Adam graduated from Glen Burnie Senior High School in 2002 and at the age of 18, set his sights on serving in the United States Army. During his 19 years of service, Adam completed tours in Korea, Germany, Iraq, and Poland. Adam was a skilled mechanic where he became known during a battalion “Able Call” ceremony as “Tank Whisperer,” by other senior leader belt buckle holders. This award is given to you for being known within the ranks on how to be proficient at your job. Adam enjoyed spending time with his kids and family, often standing over the grill where he shined his smile and laughter on everyone, as well as often enjoyed getting “Mud on the tires” of his Jeep. Adam had a love for anything mechanical! He loved car racing no matter what it was and really enjoyed getting his Jeep stuck! He loved hanging out with and feeding his brothers in arms, usually with a BBQ of a brisket or something similar! He always had a smile (Cheshire grin) to give and made people laugh with his quirky walks or jokes.
He loved riding his Harley! He loved winter and anything snow related, especially skiing! He loved the Patriots! He cooked BBQ brisket for his crew! He loved Twizzlers, Fluffernutter sandwiches, and Taco Bell!
Adam loved to surprise people, especially his children. Adam was also a real prankster; you never knew if you could be at the receiving end of one of his many pranks. Adam was very kind and was always willing to help others. If you were moving or needed your car fixed, he would be there. Sadly, Adam took his own life after coming home from his 6th deployment on November 15, 2021.
Adam Joseph Donaldson, you are a true hero that will be forever missed but never forgotten.
States he called home: New Hampshire, Maryland, Kansas
Resting Place: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington Virginia
