America's Fallen Hero's

MSGT. Joseph Max Lauwers

Joseph Max Lauwers enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1984 at 17 years old as a Turboprop Mechanic, accomplishing a lifelong goal. During his time in service MSGT Lauwers served both as an Airman and NCO in aircraft maintenance, disaster preparedness, resource management and Air Force Special Operations Command; spanning multiple deployments and other temporary duty stations. Whether it was stateside, England, Japan, Iraq or other combat zones, MSGT Lauwers spent his life serving his family, community and country wherever the Air Force took him. All while raising his only daughter, Holly.

Throughout his career, MSGT Lauwers excelled at any task given to him and was recognized often for his contributions to the Air Force. Among his many recognitions include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with 2 oak leave clusters, Air Force Achievement Medal with 1 oak leave cluster, Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor Device with 6 oak leave clusters, National Defense Service Medal with 1 service sar, Iraq Campaign Medal with 1 service star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Meal, the Humanitarian Service Medal with 2 service stars, Air Force Overseas Ribbon Long with 1 oak leaf cluster, Air force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border with 1 oak leave cluster, Air Force Longevity Service with 5 oak leave clusters, USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon with 1 oak leave cluster, Small Arm Expert Marksmanship Ribbon and the Air Force Training Ribbon.

MSGT Lauwers retired to Fayetteville, NC in 2010 after 26 years of service, and then relocated to his home state of Michigan a few years later. Following retirement, MSGT Lauwers continued his service to his country by volunteering in his community serving with organizations like Rolling Thunder NC Chapter 1, his local VFW and American Legion posts in Michigan and serving on the Honor Guard for Ogemaw County, MI. His love of motorcycles, science fiction, technology and his family will leave lasting memories to all who knew him.