SPC. Wesley R. Wells
United States Army

The very first Tank™ bike built by Snake Alley is dedicated to a Hero in the War on Terrorism. Wesley R. Wells was a soldier that wore his heart on his sleeve, lived his life to the fullest and was always surrounded by family and friends. SSG Nicholas Cox, Wesley’s squad leader in A Company, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Wolfhounds, says of SPC. Wells:
“ It was an honor to serve with Wes. I had the privilege to work with him as soon as he came in the Army. I would rather have 1 of him than 1000 other soldiers and there is not a day that goes by where I do not think about him. Wesley was a great soldier and a true American hero. To Wesley’s family, I just want to say thank you for raising such a great American hero”

Joan Neal and Robert Wells raised this soldier in Libertyville, Illinois together with Heather and Tiffany, his sisters. Born October 24, 1982, Wesley was athletic, friendly and full of life. For boys that sometimes means mischief and for Wesley it leads to a life-changing decision to join the United States Army in 2002.

After completion of boot camp at Fort Benning, GA, he was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division in Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Achieving Expert Marksman and Head Machine Gunner by day and courting his wife to be at night. Jonalyn and Wesley were married January 17, 2004.

Called for active duty in Afghanistan, Wesley was stationed there for eight months with the rest of the 27th Infantry Wolfhounds. Halfway around the world but never far from his heart, phone calls, letters, care packages and emails were his lifeline to Jonalyn and his family. Even though he could not share his action information he could share his desire to be with those he loved. The prayers and pride of his family were his daily bread.

Wesley sent an e-mail one day that he was concerned about an upcoming dangerous mission. He asked for prayer for his safe return. Although he returned safely from that mission, it would be God’s will that he not return home from the next. On September 20th 2004, SPC. Wesley R. Wells made the ultimate sacrifice in the War on Terrorism. SPC. Wells died in Naka, Afghanistan, when anti-coalition militia forces fired on his observation post.

In his short time with his wife, Jonalyn, Wes prophetically said that he would die a hero. He was right. Wesley was a recipient of the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Medal of Good Conduct. This son, brother, husband, friend and soldier lives on in the pride of his loved ones and fellow Wolfhounds. The sacrifice he made and the mark he left on those who knew him means he “will always be our hero”.