Brother. Son. Leader. Soldier. Friend. Inspiration. Army 2LT Justin Lee Sisson made an impression on everyone he met, on the ball field, on the wrestling mat, as an Eagle Scout, in the classroom, and on the battlefield.

Justin received an ROTC scholarship to attend Florida State, turning down two separate appointments to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point to remain a member of FSU's Seminole Batallion. He joined the National Guard during his freshman year at FSU to get a better understanding of what the soldiers he'd eventually be leading needed in an officer. Between his sophomore and junior years, Justin chose to deploy for a year to Mosul, Iraq, as a private, first class. In honor of his exceptional service, he was promoted to specialist and received the Bronze Star.

When Justin returned to FSU in 2010, he completed his education and earned the George C. Marshall Award as the top cadet in FSU ROTC. Following his 2012 graduation, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army and assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, based at Fort Campbell, Ky. Justin deployed to Afghanistan in 2013 and was leading his platoon and providing security for Afghans when he was killed by a suicide bomber June 3 of that year.

Join Justin’s family and FSU this year in supporting the Justin Sisson Run/Walk for the Fallen. Proceeds from this annual 5K race benefit the Justin Sisson Outstanding Cadet Scholarship. This scholarship, which was established by the Sisson family, benefits FSU ROTC cadets and FSU student veterans embodying Justin's dedication to family, country and duty, and helps them complete their education and work in service of our nation.