Jerry Stanley Sodosky

Command Sergeant Major Jerry Stanley Sodosky was born on February 16, 1943, in Sprague, West Virginia, to Steve and Virginia Sodosky. From an early age, Jerry demonstrated the values of hard work, patriotism, and dedication that would come to define his life.

In February 1961, Jerry’s twin brother, Larry Lee Sodosky, enlisted in the United States Army, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Feeling lost without his twin brother by his side, Jerry decided to enlist as well. On February 27, 1961, Jerry officially joined the United States Army. Over the next 27 years, until his retirement on June 30, 1988, he built an extraordinary military career that spanned the globe and included 20 different assignments—an accomplishment achieved by very few Soldiers.

His military journey began with the 6th Brigade, 2nd Regiment, followed by the 1st Battalion, 6th Armor at Fort Hood, Texas. From there, Jerry served with the 32nd Armor in Friedberg, Germany; the 40th Armor in Berlin, Germany; and later with the 6th Infantry, also in Berlin. In 1966, Jerry was assigned to the 77th Armor at Fort Carson, Colorado, before returning to Berlin in 1967 to serve with Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), Special Troops.

Between 1970 and 1971, Jerry proudly served two tours in Vietnam. His first tour was in Cu Chi with the 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry. His second tour was in Chu Lai with HHC, 16th Aviation Group, where he selflessly volunteered for the assignment so that his twin brother could return home to the United States.

Following his distinguished service in Vietnam, Jerry was assigned to the 13th Infantry in Mannheim, Germany. His career continued with assignments at Fort Riley, Kansas, serving with the 7th Field Artillery and later HHB, DIVARTY. In 1976, he served with the 6th Battalion, 37th Field Artillery at Camp Essayons, Korea, followed by a tour with the 4th Training Battalion, Training Brigade at Fort Knox, Kentucky. In 1978, he returned to Korea to serve with the 4th Squadron, 7th Cavalry at Camp Stanton.

From 1979 to 1980, Jerry attended the prestigious United States Army Sergeants Major Academy (Class 14) at Fort Bliss, Texas. He graduated and was subsequently promoted to Sergeant Major in 1980. He continued his leadership journey with the Division One School Brigade at Fort Knox from 1980 to 1983, before being assigned to the 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry in 1983, and the 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division in 1984 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. His final assignment was with the Western Sector, USMEPCOM, at the Presidio of San Francisco, California, starting in 1986, where he faithfully served until his retirement in June 1988.

Jerry’s military career was marked by exceptional leadership, unwavering integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the Soldiers under his command. As a distinguished Command Sergeant Major and a recipient of the Legion of Merit, he earned the profound respect and admiration of everyone privileged to serve alongside him.

Serving as a distinguished Command Sergeant Major and recipient of the Legion of Merit, Jerry was defined by exceptional leadership, integrity, and devotion to his Soldiers.

He was a devoted husband of 25 years to Delores, a loving father, a loyal friend, and a man of deep Christian faith who loved fast cars (especially his Corvette).

In 1988, he returned to Fort Bliss, Texas, opening Academy Plaques and Engraving. He successfully served as CEO for 20 years, mentoring and crafting farewell gifts for thousands of Soldiers.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife Delores (Lovey), daughter Diane S. Sodosky, grandson Nicolas D. Blucker; his beloved niece, Patty Wilson, extended family members, along with many dear friends, fellow Soldiers, and colleagues whose lives were enriched simply by knowing him.

Although our hearts are heavy with his passing, we find comfort in God’s promise of eternal life. Jerry leaves behind an enduring legacy of honor, service, faith, and love. While his absence leaves a hole in our hearts, we rejoice in the knowledge that we will one day be reunited with him in Heaven.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Jerry’s life was one of faithful service to God, his family, his Soldiers, and his nation. His legacy will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

In Lieu of flowers, please donate to Tunnel Towers Foundation. Thank You.

Live - Hillcrest Baptist Church