Spc. Preston Jones enlisted in the Army in 2012. He served as an engineer in the 161st at Ft Bragg, NC. After serving in active duty for four years, he transitioned into the NC National Guard, where he served in the 181st up until his death.

Most people would describe Preston as the funniest person they had ever met. He had a great sense of humor and the ability to always put a smile on someone’s face. He was kind, loving, and would give you the shirt off of his own back.

“I want people to know that Preston was an amazing human being. He accomplished so many things in his 23 years on Earth and he lived a beautiful life, even if it was short,” remembers fiancé Samantha Read.