Master Sgt. Ivica Jerak died Aug. 25, 2005 in Western Iraq while conducting combat operations against known enemies of the United States of America.
He was born in Debeljak, the former Republic of Yugoslavia. He entered the US Army as a combat medic in 1988 and worked his way to the 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) and was an assistant team sergeant with U. S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, NC.

It is there the Jensen family came to know and love Ivica Jerak. He told us of his leaving his native land and the strong convictions he held for the United States of America and its purpose in the World. He set an example for many of us "native" born citizens with his dedication and willingness to serve. He cherished his new-found freedom as a United States Citizen and looked forward to travelling all of this great land. He so wanted to visit the Western Dakota's and was fascinated by the divergent backgrounds of all. The memory of Ivica Jerak lives on with his wife, Hye "Sue" Jerak, his mother and brothers in Croatia, and many dear friends.

On Sept. 9, 2005 at 12 noon (MDT) Ivica Jerak will be laid to rest with a Military Funeral at Arlington National Cemetery.

Tributes and messages may be sent via our website to Sue and the family.