Auburn soldier honored for paying the ultimate sacrifice

AUBURN, Ind. (WANE) - Monday inside the DeKalb County Courthouse, people honored a soldier from Auburn who paid the ultimate sacrifice.  Sergeant JaBraun Knox died May 18, 2012 in Afghanistan when his base was attacked.  His family, friends, and members of the community made sure he won't be forgotten for many generations to come.

Sgt. JaBraun Knox's name is permanently placed on a pillar in the DeKalb County Courthouse alongside others who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.  His family finds comfort in the fact his service won't be forgotten.

"It's reassuring to know that he will never be forgotten and always be remembered as a true hero and someone who loved his family, loved his community, and loved his country," JaBraun's father-in-law Matt Beerbower said.

JaBraun's father-in-law, Matt Beerbower, said each day that passes brings strength to their family.

"Courtney, she is getting stronger every day.  Her son Braylon I think is helping her with that."

Since his death, Beerbower said the community has rallied around them.  He credits that to JaBraun wrapping his arms around them and drawing them closer to each other.

"I've never seen reaction like this from our community and I've been in the community since I believe 1978."

For State Representative Benjamin Smaltz, JaBraun's story hits close to home.

"I have for a long time when the national anthem has played think of all of the names of everybody that I have known that has made a sacrifice to help maintain my freedom and the freedom of my family.  And I always start with my father - Captain Michael Smaltz, United States Navy," Smaltz said.

JaBraun's name will be permanently displayed in the DeKalb County Courthouse forever.