MSgt Emilio Jaso, Jr.

Remembering MSgt. Emilio Jaso

October 13, 2022

Service Tuesday, October 25, 2022

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Pararescueman MSgt. Emilio Jaso, Jr., on October 13, 2022 at the age of 68.  Emilio entered the Air Force in 1977 and graduated from PJ class 77-01.  After 19 months of training, he was stationed at the 67^th ARRS Woodbridge, England where he developed into a PJ Team Member and then, on to Eglin AFB, Fort Walton Beach, Florida, to the 55^th AARS where he became a Team leader in the wake of the Grenada rescue mission.  He was one of the first Pararescuemen involved in demonstrating the force enhancement capabilities Pararescuemen could provide to the Joint Force within Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) at the 24^th Special Tactics Squadron affectionately known as “The Hill”.  His work helped cement the role and validated the need for Pararescue within this Joint Force establish the initial trail head and set the path forward for subsequent Special Tactics Pararescue achievements.  After his time at “The Hill”, he was subsequently reassigned to Woodbridge, England where he participated in Operations Desert Storm and Provide Comfort.  From there, he was assigned to the Air National Guard in New York.

Emilio had several career highlights but the most distinguished was his assignment to the 24^th Special Tactics Squadron.  While assigned there, he helped develop the plans and programs to institute search and rescue capabilities of the Special Operations Command that are still in use to this day.  While there, he deployed on several classified operations in support of JSOC.

In the words of MSgt Scott Fales (R): “Emilio was a PJ but more importantly, he was a trail blazer that the Pararescue career field owes a debt of gratitude to for expanding their roles and mission in the JSOC environment.”  

Quoting CMSgt (R) Ryan Beckmann: “He did it his way, every day, and always led from the front.”  

From SMSgt (R) John Pighini: “Emilio was extremely loyal to the career field and his leaders.  He was one of the finest NCO’s that I have ever supervised.  He was a true warrior and he always had your back.”

Emilio had many awards and decorations to include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal with 6 devices, Joint Service Commendation Medal, just to name a few. He graduated as Honor Student from the NCO Academy in 1986.

While stationed in New York, he was selected to a highly classified mission where he deployed on several operations.

After retirement, Emilio worked for Smith and Nephew Orthopedics distributorship with a very successful career of 24 years.  He loved hunting, fishing and but most importantly, traveling with his beloved wife, Judy.  

He was preceded in death by his three sons, Aaron, Adam, and Andrew West.  He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Judy, and son, Austin West.  

Visitation for family and friends will be Monday, October 24, 2022, 6-8 pm at Moore Funeral Home, 402 S. Alamo St., Refugio, TX 78377.  

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at First Baptist Church, 309 Johnson St., Woodsboro, TX 78393 at 10 am.  After a lunch at the Fellowship Hall at the church, burial will be held at 2pm at the Costal Bend Veteran’s Cemetery, 9974 IH 37 Access Road, Corpus Christi, Texas 78410.

Some of us did not know Emilio or just met him in passing with a hand shake.  Those that worked with and knew him hold him in high regard as a warrior PJ, who now joins the squadron of PJ Rescue Angels who have made their final jump.

When one of our PJ brothers passes he takes a piece of our hearts with him.  It would be immensely appreciated if those who have stories would write or call July at 813-918-9797 with your remembrances.  Cards can be sent to Judy Jaso at 2993 High Meadow St., Seguin, TX 781555.

Thanks,

John Pighini

813-362-1401

[email protected]