NIENAJADLO, DANIELLE

Danielle M. Nienajadlo was born on February 18,1977 and after graduating from Lewis and Clark High School in 1995, and a brief stent at Spokane Falls Community College, she joined the Army.  She loved the military, was strong and fit, and spent 13 years as a soldier serving around the world, including in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Bosnia (twice). 

Danielle was a 63 Bravo, light wheel mechanic and helped keep the engines of war in tip-top shape. It was proud work for a woman who had every intention of serving her 20 years in the Army. This is evident as she had submitted her Aviation paperwork to become a US Army pilot.   

Danielle loved animals, so much so, you could often find her rescuing more animals than where allowed in base housing; ultimately, when she deployed her mother, Lindsay, became the recipient guardian of these animals. At one point, watching 5 dogs during her deployment. Danielle was also an avid outdoorswoman who loved being outside. She was also a football and racing fan. One of the highlights of her life was getting a visit from NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr. while in treatment at Walter Reed Medical Hospital. She had also received visits from NFL football teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinal. 

Prior to her final deployment to Balad Air Base, Iraq, SSgt Nienajadlo passed her Army physical with flying colors. However, while on deployment she was exposed to one of the largest burn pits on Balad and as a result she consumed large amounts of the toxic chemicals that were released in the air due to burn pits. Danielle was diagnosed with Stage 4 AML Leukemia and passed away exactly 13 years to the day she enlisted. She left behind 3 children, Isaiah, Ian and Titan, who were 3,8, and 10, at the time of her passing.   

While SSgt Nienajadlo death was a tragedy, her illness (as a result of the burnpit toxins) was on the forefront of Burn Pit 360 mission. In January 2013, President Obama signed the Burn Pit Registry into Federal Law. Furthermore, The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022, known as the PACT Act of 2022, is an Act of Congress intended to significantly improve healthcare access and funding for veterans who were exposed to toxic substances during military service.  

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers SSG Danielle M. Nienajadlo for her service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. Our hope is that her life continues to inspire all who learn her story.