Johnny “Joey” Jones, a retired U.S. Marine Staff Sergeant, lost both legs above the knee after stepping on an IED in Afghanistan in 2010. This life-altering incident could have defined his future, but instead, it redirected his path towards helping others.
Jones’ journey from a traumatic injury to becoming a multifaceted advocate is nothing short of inspiring. As a contributor across FOX News Media platforms, including FNC, FOX Business Network, and FOX Nation, he addresses military and veterans’ issues, leveraging his platform to improve the lives of people.
Key Takeaways
- Joey Jones is a combat-wounded veteran turned Fox News contributor.
- He advocates for veterans’ issues across various FOX News platforms.
- Jones’ military service and recovery have shaped his advocacy work.
- He is a sought-after speaker, connecting with audiences through his genuine demeanor.
- Jones’ story is one of resilience and commitment to service beyond his military career.
Early Life and Background
Johnny Joey Jones’ childhood in Georgia was marked by significant events that would later influence his decision to join the Marine Corps. Growing up, he was surrounded by friends who were also considering their paths in life.
Childhood in Georgia
Jones’ two childhood best friends entered the military, which got him thinking about his own future. He started evaluating the different branches of the military. “The Army was ‘be all you can be’ and the Navy was ‘travel the world,’ but the Marine Corps was ‘you probably don’t have what it takes,'” Jones recalls. This challenging reputation appealed to his desire to be held to higher standards.
Education and Early Career
In 2005, at the age of 18, Jones made the decision to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps, seeking to develop core values such as honor, courage, and commitment. He has admitted that his motivation was somewhat “selfish,” driven by a desire for personal growth. Jones quickly demonstrated his aptitude and dedication, eventually becoming an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician, one of the most demanding roles in the military.
During his time in the Marines, Jones was given the opportunity to develop valuable skills that would serve him well in his future endeavors. Over the years, he faced challenges that tested his resolve, but he persevered, driven by his commitment to his duties.
Military Service and Life-Changing Injury
Johnny Joey Jones’ journey as a Marine began with his enlistment in the United States Marine Corps. This marked the beginning of a significant chapter in his life, one that would be filled with challenges and transformative experiences.
Joining the Marine Corps
Jones’ decision to join the Marine Corps was a pivotal moment in his life. It reflected his commitment to serving his country and embracing the values of the Marine Corps. The rigorous training and discipline of the Marine Corps prepared him for the challenges he would face during his deployment.
Deployment and Combat Experience
During his deployment in Afghanistan, Jones was exposed to the harsh realities of combat. His experience was marked by the intense conditions of war and the camaraderie that develops among soldiers in such environments. It was during this deployment that a life-altering incident occurred.
The August 6, 2010 Incident
On August 6, 2010, just after his 23rd birthday, Jones’ life changed forever when he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED) while on patrol. The explosion resulted in catastrophic injuries, including the loss of both his legs above the knee and severe damage to his right forearm and both wrists. Jones recalls the traumatic event, stating, “When I woke up in the hospital two days later, I got the news that Daniel Greer, the guy standing beside me, was killed in action by the bomb that I stepped on.” This incident not only changed Jones’ life but also instilled in him a profound sense of responsibility to honor those who did not survive.
The aftermath of the incident saw Jones recovering at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Washington D.C. Despite the life-altering nature of his injuries, Jones maintained his love for the armed forces, demonstrating remarkable resilience and commitment to military values.
- The explosion on August 6, 2010, caused Jones to lose both legs above the knee.
- The incident also resulted in severe damage to his right forearm and both wrists.
- Jones received the devastating news that Daniel Greer, the Marine standing beside him, was killed in action.
- This dual trauma created a sense of responsibility in Jones to “make life count” in honor of those who didn’t survive.
Jones’ story is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity.
Recovery and Transition to Civilian Life
Johnny Joey Jones’ path to recovery was marked by determination and resilience in the face of adversity. His journey involved multiple stages, from initial treatment to educational pursuits.
Treatment at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center
During his recovery, Jones took classes on campus at Walter Reed, laying the groundwork for his future academic endeavors. This period was crucial in his rehabilitation, helping him regain his physical independence.
Creating the Peer Visit Program
Jones was instrumental in creating the Peer Visit Program, an initiative aimed at supporting wounded veterans. This program addressed various issues faced by veterans, providing them with a support network during their recovery.
Education at Georgetown University
After regaining his physical independence in July 2011, Jones enrolled at Georgetown University, demonstrating his commitment to intellectual recovery. He spent his time at Georgetown focusing on his academic development and improving conditions for other veteran students on campus. Jones completed his education in May 2014, earning his degree while building his profile as a veterans’ advocate. The relationships and initiatives he established continue to benefit veteran students today.
Jones’ experience as a visibly wounded veteran in an elite academic environment helped bridge the civilian-military divide. His efforts created a lasting legacy, extending beyond his personal educational achievement to positively impact the lives of veterans on campus every day.
Who is Johnny Joey Jones? His bio, Fox News, salary, wife, children, and more
Johnny Joey Jones’ life is a testament to resilience and dedication, from his military career to his work with Fox News. His journey encompasses a wide range of experiences, from serving in the Marine Corps to becoming a notable figure in the media.
Fox News Career and Contributions
Johnny Joey Jones has made significant contributions to Fox News, bringing his unique perspective as a veteran and his experience during deployment in Afghanistan to the forefront. His insights have enriched the network’s coverage, providing audiences with a deeper understanding of various issues. Through his work, Jones has demonstrated his ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
Estimated Salary and Net Worth
While specific figures regarding Johnny Joey Jones’ salary and net worth are not publicly disclosed, his successful career in media and his bestselling book, “Unbroken Bonds of Battle,” which reached the New York Times bestseller list, contribute to his financial stability. His multifaceted career, including appearances in films like “Lincoln” and “Range15,” as well as his role as a technical advisor for “Bad Hurt,” adds to his professional achievements.
Notable Media Appearances
Jones’ media presence extends beyond Fox News to various other platforms. His story was featured on ABC Nightline and CBS Evening News, highlighting his deployment experience and recovery journey. Additionally, his family’s history was showcased in the series “Religion of Sports,” adding depth to his public persona. The release of “Unbroken Bonds of Battle” further cemented his status as a prominent figure, offering insights into the bonds formed during his military service and recovery.
Personal Life and Family
The personal life of Johnny Joey Jones offers a glimpse into the values he holds dear. As a devoted husband and father, Jones prioritizes his family, creating a nurturing environment that reflects his personal philosophy.
Marriage to Meg Jones
Johnny Joey Jones is married to Meg Jones, forming a strong partnership that has been a cornerstone of his personal life. Together, they have built a family that is grounded in the values Jones holds dear. His marriage to Meg has been a source of strength, particularly during his recovery from injuries sustained during his military service.
Children: Joseph and Margo
Jones and his wife have two children, Joseph and Margo, who are central to their family life. The children are actively involved in the family’s activities on their Georgia farm, where they learn valuable lessons about responsibility and care for animals. Jones believes in providing his children with a “childhood best” experience, filled with activities such as fishing, board games, and woodworking.
Life on the Georgia Farm
Recently, Jones purchased a 40-acre farm in Georgia, which has become the family’s home and a deliberate lifestyle choice. The farm is home to Tennessee fainting goats and miniature donkeys, which the family tends to together. Jones values this rural lifestyle, believing that physical work is “primal and necessary for a balanced soul.” While he commutes to New York City for his work at Fox News, Jones prefers the simplicity of rural life, where he can have cows for neighbors every day.
Jones’ decision to maintain a family life in Georgia, despite his professional commitments that require him to travel to New York City, underscores his commitment to providing a balanced life for his family. This balance is a thing that Jones considers essential to his well-being and that of his family.
Current Activities and Legacy
Through his advocacy work and public speaking, Johnny Joey Jones continues to support the veteran community. His efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of many.
Advocacy Work and Public Speaking
Jones currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Boot Campaign, a national nonprofit organization that provides health and wellness services to veterans. His work with Zac Brown’s Camp Southern Ground has also been instrumental in developing the Warrior Week military transition program.
“Unbroken Bonds of Battle” and Literary Work
Jones has also made significant contributions through his literary work. Although specific details about his book “Unbroken Bonds of Battle” are not provided, it is clear that his writing is another avenue through which he supports and advocates for veterans.
Impact on Veteran Community
Jones’ impact on the veteran community is multifaceted. He founded a peer visit program at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, which has become a model for peer support at other military medical facilities. His advocacy has also influenced policy discussions around veteran care, promoting a balanced approach that emphasizes both personal responsibility and systemic support.
- Guiding programs that address veterans’ health and wellness needs through the Boot Campaign.
- Developing structured support for veterans transitioning to civilian life through the Warrior Week program.
- Creating a model for peer support that has been adopted by other military medical facilities.
Conclusion
Joey Jones’ story is one of resilience and determination. After losing both his legs in Afghanistan, he rebuilt his life, becoming a devoted dad to his children. Now, he teaches rugged American values to his 14-year-old boy and 4-year-old girl on their 40-acre farm in Georgia. Joey Jones continues to inspire countless lives through his advocacy work and media presence, challenging others to find meaning in adversity. His journey exemplifies thriving despite physical limitations, making the most of life every day, and cherishing the things that matter most. Johnny Joey Jones is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who lost his legs in combat during a deployment to Afghanistan on August 6, 2010. Jones was treated at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he underwent extensive rehabilitation. Jones is a contributor to Fox News and Fox Nation, where he shares his insights and experiences as a veteran. “Unbroken Bonds of Battle” is a literary work by Jones that explores the bonds formed during combat and the challenges faced by veterans. Camp Southern Ground is an organization founded by Zac Brown, a musician and friend of Jones, to support veterans and their families. Yes, Jones is married to Meg Jones, and they have two children, Joseph and Margo. Jones’ advocacy work is centered on supporting wounded veterans and raising awareness about the challenges they face. Jones attended Georgetown University, where he continued his education and personal growth.FAQ
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