CLOUSE, JUSTIN

Justin R. Clouse was born September 12,1991 and graduated from Sprague Lamont High School, in Sprague Washington in 2010.  

Almost a year after he graduated from high school, he joined the United States Army where he served as an infantryman, and vehicle gunner.  

Growing up, Justin was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish.  

He was often referred to as a “gentle giant” and was highly respected, and looked up to by those that knew him. While at Sprague Lamont High School he played Basketball and Baseball. He was selected as the team Captain and awarded the Most Valuable Player of the Basketball team his senior year.  

According to his former teacher, and former basketball coach Chad Prewitt, “he was a quiet leader, he led by example”. According to Brigadier General John Kem, "Justin was not like the many, he resolved to risk all, to maintain our way of life." 

Justin showed leadership skills both in the army, and his everyday life. According to his Uncle Roger, "there's not many people bigger than Corporal Clouse and at first you'd look at him, and say wow, this guy is giant, but he was very gentle and quiet, and he cared about everybody, especially as a leader." 

Family and friends were a priority in CPL Clouse’s life. He was engaged and planned to get married in May 2015 after leaving the Army. His plan was to study engineering and eventually find work in the oil industry, 

On his second deployment to Afghanistan, CPL Clouse was killed during combat operations while assigned to 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division from Fort Carson, Colorado. 

He was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his service. 

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers CPL Justin Clouse for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. His life continues to inspire all who learn his story.