10/4/2018

Sergeant James Allen Slape was born and raised in Morehead City, North Carolina. In high school, SGT Slape ran cross country and worked in a local surf shop. He loved the ocean and sailing, having recently purchased a boat with plans to travel the open water. He also enjoyed hiking, camping, and motorcycles, but above all cherished the company of friends and spending time with family; especially his brother who is also serving in the Army. In 2013, SGT Slape enlisted in the Army and attended Basic Combat Training (BCT) at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Upon completion of BCT, SGT Slape began his phased Advanced Individual Training at Fort Lee, Virginia and Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. After completing Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) School, he was assigned to the 430th Ordnance Company (EOD) in Washington, North Carolina. While assigned to the 430th Ordnance Company (EOD) he broadened his professional military and EOD knowledge by attending FEMA Emergency Responder Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Materials Technician Course, Ravens Challenge, Tactical Site Exploitation and Minehound Course at Ft Bragg, ATF Post Blast at Camp Lejeune, ATF HME at Redstone Arsenal, Attack Scene Forensic Investigation Course at Ft. Polk and Basic Leader Course at Bagram Airfield. SGT Slape’s awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, North Carolina Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal with Bronze Oak Leaf, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Star Device, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device, Army Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Service Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, North Carolina National Guard Service Ribbon, the Combat Action Badge, the Basic Explosive Ordnance Badge, and Drivers Badge with Wheeled Bar. SGT Slape is survived by his wife Shawn Marie Slape, his parents Jim and Trish Slape, and his brother, William Slape.