Honoring SSG Curtis A Oakes

Curtis A. Oakes, 29, of Athens, Ohio graduated from Alexander High School in Albany and from Hocking College in 2002 with degrees in Wildlife Management and in Aquaculture.

He was active in Future Farmers of America and the Forestry Club.

He was a true character. Always made you laugh." Betsy Schmidt, friend.

"The easiest thing to say about Curtis is that he was going to have a good time no matter what.  He was really outgoing and jovial." Greg Gilders, Industrial Technology teacher, Alexander HS, where Curtis worked in the after-school program.

"His character is something people should emulate. He was just a good guy, and accomplished. I was looking for him to do great things, and he did, just in a different field." Lloyd Wright, Program Coordinator, Hocking College.

Oakes was a Fire Support Specialist who joined the Army in March 2003 and arrived at Fort Campbell in September 2004. He had previously served in Iraq and in Afghanistan.

His awards and decorations include: Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Purple Heart; Valorous Unit Award; Army Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Korean Defense Service Medal; Afghanistan Campaign Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; NATO Medal; Driver and Mechanic Badge; Combat Action Badge and Air Assault Badge.

Oakes is survived by his wife, Brandy Oakes; son, Bradley Oakes and step-son, Tyler Jones, all of Clarksville, Tenn.  Oakes is also survived by his daughter Mia Robus of White City, Kan. and his parents Terry and Valarie Oakes of Athens, Ohio and grandmothers Carol Oakes and Katherine Haller.  In lieu of flowers, family is requesting that monetary gifts be made to the Oakes Children College Fund, c/o Tammy Hill, Little & Nelson, Inc., 26 Public Ave., Montrose, PA 18801.
He was remembere at the New Milford Readiness Center.

 If you knew Curtis personally and have stories to share of His Honor, His Valor, His Humor, of his life, please contact us so that we can update his post.