Children of Fallen Patriots – Joelle Metzger
“Second Fort Drum Soldier Dies from Injuries Sustained in New Jersey Crash” — this headline reverberated across news outlets as the Leek family began their journey of grief. To the world, Staff Sergeant Bryce Leek was another soldier who gave his life in service to his country. To his family, however, he was so much more: a pillar of strength, a constant source of light, and an inspiration for selflessness. His absence left an irreplaceable void in their hearts that will echo for years to come.
From an early age, SSG Leek was driven by a deep commitment to service. After graduating high school in 1998, he enlisted in the Army, beginning his career overseas in Korea. In pursuit of both his military calling and higher education, he joined the Pennsylvania National Guard while attending Lock Haven University to obtain his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Upon earning his degree, SSG Leek returned to active duty as an Infantryman at Fort Drum, NY. Over the course of his distinguished career, he completed three tours in Afghanistan and a peacekeeping mission in Kosovo.
Despite the demands of his military career, SSG Leek always made time for his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Stephanie, a committed father to his three children—Daniel, Andrew, and Joelle—and a loving owner to Molly May, their four-legged companion. Molly, a rescue dog, became part of the Leek family after settling in Upstate New York, where she provided protection and comfort during SSG Leek’s absences. She was love and loyalty personified with an energy that did not fade regardless of age. Molly and SSG Leek had that in common, making them the perfect pair.
A few years after the loss of SSG Leek, his family left their home in NY, settling in Pennsylvania. Even after all the changes the family endured, Molly remained a constant and a reminder of SSG Leek. She provided the family a strong sense of connection to him long after his passing. Molly May passed away in August of 2021.
Losing Molly was bittersweet – she was finally reunited with dad, but we had lost yet another integral part of our family.
Joelle, now a military spouse herself, and her husband, Ross, have since welcomed their own dog into their family. Fester, an 8-year-old terrier mix, has quickly become a vital part of their life since being adopted in December 2024. Much like Molly, Fester offers companionship and protection, especially in Ross’s absence. In January 2025, Ross left for a two-month deployment. During that time, Fester accompanied Joelle on a cross-country road trip. His companionship made for many beautiful memories and lessons learned, but most importantly created a bond reminiscent of Molly May’s and SSG Leek’s.
On May 14, 2015, Staff Sergeant Bryce Leek tragically lost his life. The story of his life and the circumstances surrounding his death reflect a recurring theme of putting others above himself. True to his unwavering belief in the motto [LL1] “no solider left behind,” SSG Leek made the ultimate sacrifice protecting his fellow soldiers. During their travels on the New Jersey Turnpike, as SSG Leek’s unit headed to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst for training, the last humvee in the convoy experienced mechanical issues. In a moment of unhesitating devotion, SSG Leek positioned his humvee at the rear of the convoy, ready to offer assistance if needed. Unfortunately, this decision exposed his vehicle to civilian traffic, ultimately leading to the fatal crash.
There are times in life when we question our destiny. You wonder, ‘Why me?’ But I always remind myself that my father died as the honorable, selfless man he was—protecting and serving his fellow soldiers. I’m proud to be the child of such a hero.
When SSG Leek made his ultimate sacrifice, his children were nearing their college years. It was then that the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation stepped in, offering vital support. This non-profit organization provides college scholarships and educational counseling to children who have lost a military parent in the line of duty. By offering financial assistance, they ensure that these children are not left behind and can pursue their academic dreams.
For SSG Leek, education had always been the key to a brighter future for both himself and his family. So, when his children faced the financial challenges of pursuing higher education, Fallen Patriots became an invaluable resource. With three children starting college within three years, the financial strain was overwhelming. Thanks to Fallen Patriots, however, the family was able to meet the challenge, ensuring that each child could continue their education without hesitation.
Joelle, reflecting on Fallen Patriots’ impact shared, Without this organization, my college experience would have been entirely different. With their support, I could focus on my studies and prepare for my professional future.
