Honoring a Fallen Hero: The Commemoration of Lance Corporal William “B. Jay” Leusink
On May 22, 2026, the community of Maurice, Iowa, gathered to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Lance Corporal William “B. Jay” Leusink’s sacrifice in Iraq. A newly named bridge stands as a testament to his bravery and the enduring legacy of those who serve in the military.
Remembering Lance Corporal Leusink
Lance Corporal Leusink, who was just 21 years old, served as a radio operator for his platoon when he tragically lost his life due to an improvised explosive device (IED) in Iraq. His mother, Elaine Leusink, remarked, “20 years ago today, we lost B. Jay in Iraq. He believed in what he did, and I believe he would have done it all over again if given the chance.” This sentiment reflects the valor and dedication often found in servicemen and women who commit to protecting their country.
On the monument’s unveiling day, the Leusink family, clad in memories of their son, joined friends and local residents amid pouring rain as the Iowa Department of Transportation honored his memory with a bridge sign. The bridge is located just north of Maurice, adjacent to a notable highway junction known as “Million Dollar Corner.” The tribute not only serves to honor B. Jay but also acts as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless soldiers in service to their nation.
The Community’s Commitment to Memory
Miranda Leusink, the late Marine’s wife, expressed gratitude for the support from the Maurice community. “It was somewhat expected that our community would honor him in this way. They continually keep his memory alive through messages and social media,” she said. This ongoing support is vital for the Leusink family, who cherish the local remembrance of B. Jay and his service.
Elaine Leusink shared how pivotal community encouragement has been in navigating their enduring grief. “We live the way we do here in the United States because of those who serve. Their sacrifices allow us the freedoms we often take for granted,” she noted, highlighting the broader impact of military service on American life.
Continuing the Legacy of Service
The emotional weight of losing a loved one in the line of duty remains palpable, even two decades later. As Elaine stated, “There are still tears after 20 years. I think there always will be.” This heartfelt reflection underscores the long-lasting impact of loss, a sentiment echoed by Miranda. “Time doesn’t wholly heal the wounds, but it does allow for some improvement,” she remarked, as both women expressed a desire for greater acknowledgment of military service among the public.
Elaine believes that the newly named bridge might inspire passersby to learn more about her son’s legacy. “I hope that when people see his name, they take a moment to look him up and understand his contributions to this country,” she said.
The dedication of this bridge serves as a meaningful reminder of the sacrifices made by service members like Lance Corporal B. Jay Leusink and highlights the unwavering love and support from their families and communities. In recognizing his sacrifice, Maurice continues to stand as a beacon of remembrance and respect for all who serve.