Some Gave All: SSgt James Ide V

The military K9 community is in mourning today, as word of a fallen hero becomes public.

News report: here

DeSoto, Mo (KSDK)-- A local soldier has died in Afghanistan. Staff Sgt. James Ide, V was one of the seven U.S. troops killed in weekend attacks.

His family got the news Sunday morning.

James Ide joined the Army immediately after graduating from DeSoto High School. And 13-years later, his family says he still loved what he did.

Ide served in Korea, and two tours in Iraq before his current posting in Afghanistan. He was a canine handler working with Daphne, a bomb sniffing dog, often in the most dangerous situations.

His family knows few details about what happened, only that he apparently died Saturday from a gunshot to the head and that there will be an investigation.

His wife Mandy and two small children are currently in Germany. Loved ones describe Jimmy Ide as an outgoing person, dedicated to his family and his faith.

Ide was 32-years old. His family says he would have headed home in October. Now, they're planning his funeral at Jefferson Barracks. (here)

"...Angels sing 'Amazing Grace'..."


Chuck is one of the K9 troops who is grieving this huge loss today. On his FaceBook page he has this:

Chuck Shuck This song reminds me of Jimmy..........Hearts are hurting throughout the K9 world tonight and I am not sure if this wound will heal

Another FB comment:

In the short time i knew Jimmy, SSG Ide his amazing smile and gentle spirit touched my heart,,, I feel truly blessed by god to have known Jimmy... He will be missed !! Jimmy was an amazing man, he loved his country, his family and God.

And another:

Please pray for the Ide family. I lost an old comrade today in Afghanistan and he left behind a very young and beautiful family. God bless you, SSG Jimmy Ide. The Army just lost one of it's finest leaders and dog handlers. I wish I was able to tell you what a great guy Jimmy was. Words don't describe it well enough. You won't be forgotten.

My heart, filled with sorrow and gratitude, is with all who love this hero.

Rest In Peace, SSgt Ide. Your work here is done now.

[Added: SSgt James Ide V was laid to final rest September 11. The Patriot Guard Riders were there, and they produced this video. Shared with permission:

JBHARLEYGUY | September 12, 2010

A video photo collage of the entire Patriot Guard mission for Sgt. Ide. Some pictures are mine and some are from other Patriot Guard members. (here)