Shawn Michael Roeder was the only son of Michael and Dianne Roeder. He grew up in Orange City, Iowa attending school there, and being active in his Church. According to his parents young Shawn was extremely active, inquisitive, sometimes mischievous, and very intelligent. He loved asking challenging questions that even his teachers had to research in order to find the answers! He dearly loved reading, playing chess, and debating. Shawn graduated from Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon with an Applied Science degree and had also attended the University of Iowa.

In 2007 Shawn joined the Air Force taking his basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. He was an honor graduate and an expert marksman, graduating in the top 3% of his class. He achieved green, yellow and red rope status for his leadership abilities. He also obtained lead white rope status for his dedication as a chapel volunteer. Shawn served in Italy for two years, and while there became interested in scuba diving and running marathons, the most momentous……running his 26.2 miles past the Colosseum. During his time there, he was deployed to Kuwait and Iraq serving in the Honor Guard. He loved the dignity of the Honor Guard and rendering honors on others. He returned to the States in 2009 serving in the Honor Guard at Scott AF base near St. Louis.

Shawn then volunteered to serve in Afghanistan where he and his unit were recognized for exceptional meritorious service for their accomplishments. He trained and advised the afghan national police in inventory control procedures, increasing productivity by 30%. He also supported 65 mounted combat patrols as a tactical driver for the convoy. He was awarded the Army commendation medal. His accomplishments continued throughout his Air Force career, and Shawn was honorably discharged in March of 2013. He was currently serving in the Active Air Force Reserve and attending McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois, working toward his Chemistry/Math degree. His goal was to enter Medical School and serve again in the Air Force, after obtaining his medical degree. He wanted to do something for the greater good of humanity. His passion was to serve wounded and disabled Veterans by further developing prosthesis to gain greater mobility.

Shawn died unexpectedly in April of 2013. In my opinion this young man had already done so much for the greater good of humanity. We thank him for his beautiful service to our country. Shawn will be forever loved and missed by his family, friends and of course his Air Force family.

Proceeds from the SSG Shawn M. Roeder bracelet will be donated to Legacies Alive.