Captain
Jason T. McMahon

Captain Jason T. McMahon was born on October 24, 1974 in Valdosta, Georgia and enlisted into the United States Army as a private in November of 1996. McMahon volunteered for Explosive Ordnance Disposal School in 1998.

From the beginning of his career in the EOD field he was recognized by his peers and the leadership as an outstanding EOD technician and an excellent NCO.

As an EOD Sergeant and later as an EOD Team Leader with the 741st and 774th Ordnance Company (EOD), McMahon excelled in all aspects earning the respect of his superiors. As an EOD Team Leader in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, then-Staff Sergeant McMahon successfully completed a Render Safe Procedure (RSP) of an Improvised Explosive Device after breaking his leg; an action for which he was awarded a Bronze Star. His leadership potential was recognized by the Commanding General at Fort Riley where he was recommended for selection for Officer Candidate School.

Upon graduation from Ordnance Officer Basic, 2LT McMahon was assigned as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer to the 707th Ordnance Company (EOD) deployed to Camp Taji, Iraq. Upon his arrival he quickly assumed duties as a platoon leader with the 707th and began demonstrating his level of expertise as both a platoon leader and an EOD tactician. He effectively planned and oversaw 104 offensive operations, 156 platoon route clearance missions, and over 1,200 EOD incidents. As an EOD technician, he mitigated and rendered safe over 40 EOD related incidents with no loss of life, injuries, or damage to infrastructure. Upon promotion to First Lieutenant in 2007, his rater stated that McMahon was the “most technically and tactically competent lieutenant with whom I’ve served over my 18-year career”.

McMahon was awarded the Silver Star posthumously for action on September 5, 2010, while serving as Company Commander, 744th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 184th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Battalion, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. His citation reads, “While under hostile fire in Laghman Province, Afghanistan, McMahon fearlessly exposed himself to accurate enemy small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades while directing the fires of his Soldiers against enemy insurgents. Completely exposed to the enemy fire and with complete disregard to his own personal safety, McMahon sacrificed his shelter, ensuring that his Soldiers were able to fully utilize the limited available cover. This action ensured his Soldiers’ safety and saved their lives.”

In recognition of his dedication to service to the Army and his soldiers, the EOD training center building at Fort A.P. Hill will be named in his honor.