Jason "Ollie" Alward ... war hero, inventor; at 38

LEBANON - On Sunday, July 19th, 2015, the world lost a beloved man, Jason "Ollie" Alward, 38, of Lebanon, Maine. Ollie was an old soul with a passion for most things in life, especially his children: Cole, Carter, Annabella, and Olivia. He enjoyed working with his hands the old fashioned way; welding, logging, carving, trapping, fishing, and most of all, cooking on an open flame for friends and family.
He was a motor head at heart: Harley's, Triumphs, muscle cars, and pretty much anything with an engine. He generously opened his home to anyone in need, was quick to lend a hand or back up a friend, and was known to raise a little hell from time to time.
Jason was full of stories, tattoos, and crazy ideas. He was fearless, never afraid to attempt anything.
Jason was a decorated Army veteran who served as a PFC, 10th Mountain Division Light Infantry at Fort Drum N.Y. from 1999-2003. In 2006, he was recalled in support of "Operation Iraqi Freedom". He served as a Specialist Gunner & Gun Truck Driver with the 423rd Transportation Unit of Fort Carson, Colo.
Jason's selfless acts of heroism were recognized by Commanding Officer when he spotted an IED two box bomb, one on the westbound lane, the other on the eastbound lane, connected by a wire. He skillfully maneuvered his ASV to safely set up a forward cordon, preventing the convoy and local traffic from entering the kill zone.
He was recognized for the development and fabrication of the new Frag5 doors for Humvee vehicles. These door locks were implemented into mass production for the entire Battalion.
He also designed a utility bed system. This provided safe use of the flat bed for cargo space, spare tires, fuel cans, and allowed for quick refueling on the roads of Iraq.
Jason's mechanical and welding experience, fabrications and weapons knowledge, and training of soldiers within his company were in keeping with the finest traditions of military service. They were a reflection of himself, the Command, and the United States Army.
Ollie had a rebel soul with a heart of gold and will be sorely missed by all that loved him.