“I would like to honor my husband, Sergeant Joshua Adam Hester, who proudly served the country he loved as an infantryman and sniper for over 15 years. He loved the military and would do anything for his guys. He was selected to train scout teams in Japan and marksmanship to deploying units. Joshua was deployed to Operation Desert Storm and Persian Gulf. Joshua got injured in Afghanistan with an IED blast during his final deployment and was later discharged and continued suffering from the spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries from the IED blast, and PTSD. He died from his injuries at home, just one month before our son Matthew was born. Joshua was beautiful inside and out, from his smile to his heart of gold. He was compassionate and loving to his family and those he served with. His friends were like family. Joshua loved making everyone laugh and never hesitated to help anyone who needed some help. He would stop to help a stranded driver. A protector at heart, Joshua would always step up to defend somebody being taken advantage of, or who could not defend themselves. My son and I find ways to keep his memory alive and honor him, he is greatly missed.”

Sugar Bear Foundation Honors the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country while we support the spouses and children they leave behind. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue the programs we offer.