Senator Honors Fallen Alabama Service Members
US Senator Tommy Tuberville from Auburn recently paid tribute to two Alabama service members who lost their lives while serving. This acknowledgment came during a speech on the Senate floor, timed just before Memorial Day, to honor their sacrifice.
Tuberville highlighted the stories of Sergeant Michael Wesley Hossey from Clay and Lance Corporal Jason Barfield of the US Marines, reflecting on their legacies and the impact they made.
Hossey, a graduate of Clay Cherkville High School, joined the Army at 17 with his father’s consent. Known for his patriotism and friendly nature, he often included a request for sweets in his care packages. Tragically, he was killed in action on September 17, 2011, just a week shy of his 28th birthday during a mission.
“Sergeant Michael Wesley Hossey had a clear vision of his future since childhood. He was frequently seen in his soldier’s uniform. His love for history was evident,” Tuberville stated.
Lance Corporal Barfield, recognized for his musical talent at Ashford High School, chose to forego a college band scholarship to enlist in the Marines. He died on October 24, 2011, at the age of 22, after heroically saving eight fellow Marines, a local translator, and a military dog from a booby-trap explosion.
“Jason lived to make a positive impact on the world. His mother, Kelly, shared that he believed he was meant to do good for others. He embraced the belief that ‘Every day is a good day,’” Tuberville recalled.
In his address, Tuberville emphasized the significance of remembering those who have fallen in service and proposed a resolution designating May 2025 as “Fallen Heroes Memorial Month.”
“Michael Wesley Hossey and Jason Barfield are two young men who never had the chance to start families or fully pursue their dreams,” Tuberville remarked. “We might not have known them personally, but they selflessly put their lives on the line for their fellow Americans. We will ensure their stories and sacrifices are always remembered.”
Senator Tuberville represents Alabama in the US Senate and is a member of the Senate’s Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and Aging committees.
