Joliet Community Honors Sgt. Jose Dueñez Jr. with Memorial Sign Unveiling on Eastern Avenue.
The gathering marked one year since the death of Dueñez, a Joliet native remembered for his service, leadership, and devotion to his family. Despite steady rain earlier in the day, the community came together in a show of support. The program began indoors at the Spanish Community Center, then moved outside once the weather cleared for the unveiling.
Photo credits: United States Army
SSG Dueñez, who would have turned 26 on April 8, was one of six siblings. He died in March 2025. Dueñez, a member of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, died during a training mission in Lithuania when he and three other U.S. soldiers were killed when their armored vehicle became submerged in a marsh.
“This loss is simply devastating,” said Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie, the 3rd Infantry Division commanding general. “No words can capture the depth of sorrow or gratitude we feel for their service. To the Families, please know you are not alone in your grief, as this division immensely loved them.
Sgt. Jose Dueñez Jr is survived by his wife and their one-year-old son, Jose Dueñez III, who attended the event alongside extended family.
The evening opened with a prayer led by Collins Street Neighborhood Council Vice President Amy Sanchez, followed by the National Anthem. Community leaders, including Spanish Community Center Executive Director Sylvia Acosta-Chavez, shared remarks recognizing his service and the strength of his family.
A presentation was made to Dueñez’s mother, and one of the most emotional moments came when a large teddy bear was given to his young son, who then chose to share it with his grandmother.
Pastor Andrew Smith of Cornerstone Church of Joliet closed the indoor portion with scripture and prayer, encouraging those in attendance to stay united and continue honoring Dueñez’s memory.
Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy also spoke, reflecting on the soldier’s courage and thanking the family and community for coming together in support.
After the program, attendees moved outside as the family unveiled a memorial sign along Eastern Avenue. The sign, donated by community member Jeff Eberhard, will remain as a permanent public tribute.
The event builds on earlier recognition of Dueñez’s service. In July 2025, the City of Joliet officially renamed Albert Avenue, a street located on the city’s east side near Wilson Avenue, to “SSG Jose Dueñez Jr. Way” in honor of Staff Sergeant Jose Dueñez Jr.
This week, tributes also took place in Lithuania, where his wife joined the families of the three other fallen soldiers in ceremonies honoring their service.
Back in Joliet, the evening served as a reminder of the impact Dueñez left behind, and the message was clear: Sgt. Jose Dueñez Jr. will not be forgotten.
Photo credits: Collins St. Neighborhood Council
