13 Years After Stepping on an IED in Afghanistan, Johnny Joey Jones Reflects on His Powerful Journey from Devastation to Triumph

On the 13th anniversary of the life-altering day when he stepped on an IED in Afghanistan, Johnny Joey Jones, former Marine and current Fox News contributor, opens up about his extraordinary story of survival and resilience. From the depths of devastation to his rise as a beacon of strength, Jones shares how he chose not just to survive, but to truly live. A former bomb technician turned media personality, Jones continues to inspire with his unwavering perseverance, advocating for veterans and using his platform to drive change. Learn how he transformed personal adversity into a powerful mission for hope, empowerment, and lasting impact.

The Day That Changed Everything: A Moment of Impact

At just 24 years old, Jones was part of a two-man team tasked with clearing streets and buildings in Afghanistan. Their mission was to disarm explosive devices, a dangerous job requiring the highest level of skill and bravery. Having already disarmed more than 30 bombs, Jones was no stranger to danger. But nothing could prepare him for the moment his life would change forever.

“I stepped on the IED, and it blew up underneath me,” Jones recalls in his book Unbroken Bonds of Battle. “I landed on my back. The dust cloud went away… I felt my face before anything, oddly enough, and so I wasn’t sure if it was still there, as it should be.” That moment of shock, when he wasn’t even sure if he was alive, was only the beginning of his arduous recovery.

The explosion left Jones with catastrophic injuries, including the loss of both his legs above the knee. But instead of succumbing to despair, he chose to fight. “I chose to live, not just survive,” he declares. This mindset became the cornerstone of his recovery and has shaped the trajectory of his life ever since.

A New Beginning: From Marine to Media Figure

After months of intensive recovery and rehabilitation, Jones transitioned from a Marine Corps bomb technician to a prominent media figure. His journey was far from easy, but it led him to a new role as a Fox News contributor in 2019, where his personal story and expertise on veteran affairs resonated deeply with viewers.

Jones’ rise on Fox News was meteoric, as his contributions extended beyond veteran advocacy. His straightforward commentary on politics, pop culture, and military affairs made him a sought-after guest on shows like Fox & Friends and primetime programming. He didn’t just survive the physical and emotional toll of his injuries—he used his experiences to become a trusted voice in American media.

A Military Journey Rooted in Duty and Selflessness

Born and raised in Dalton, Georgia, Jones grew up in a working-class family. His father worked as a brick and block mason, and his mother cleaned houses. It wasn’t until a life-changing breakup with his high school sweetheart that Jones enlisted in the Marine Corps, seeking something greater than himself. “I didn’t understand the nuance of what being selfless meant, and the Marine Corps taught that to me,” he reflects.

His service took him to Iraq in 2007, and it was there that he first learned the courage and camaraderie that define the military experience. His journey led him to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) field, where he served as a bomb technician. “If somebody has to walk down there and take them apart, let it be me,” Jones explains, reflecting on the bravery of his fellow soldiers. His role in the EOD unit would set the stage for his most defining moment.

On the day before the IED explosion, Jones was exhausted from dealing with numerous bomb threats. He was hoping for a quieter day, but fate had other plans. A simple request from his friend, Corporal Daniel Greer, led Jones to investigate a storage unit, where he stepped on the bomb that would change everything.

A Legacy of Resilience and Leadership

Now 37, Jones is not just a survivor—he is a symbol of resilience, strength, and leadership. From surviving the explosion to becoming a leading voice for military advocacy, Jones’ life story inspires countless others. His journey from victim to hero has shaped his work as a military analyst, motivational speaker, and advocate for veterans’ rights.

Jones’ contributions to the national conversation about veterans’ healthcare, rehabilitation, and their struggles in transitioning to civilian life have made him a powerful figure in the media landscape. He continues to use his platform to ensure that those who served their country are never forgotten. His message is simple yet profound: service is a calling, one that transcends individual sacrifice for the greater good.

The Legacy of “Alive Day”

For Jones, August 6 is more than just the anniversary of his injury. It’s his “Alive Day”—a term used to describe the day a veteran survives an injury that could have been fatal. For Jones, this day marks not only the trauma he endured but the triumph of overcoming it. Each year on this day, he reflects on his journey and celebrates his survival.

“I was given a second chance,” he says. “And every day since has been a reminder to live it to the fullest.”

Jones often takes a moment to remember his late father, Colonel Lawrence E. Roberts, whose wisdom and sacrifice continue to guide him. Though Jones lost his father years ago, the lessons his father imparted on him remain etched in his heart, pushing him to honor his legacy by helping others.

What’s Next for Johnny Joey Jones?

As Jones continues to inspire those around him, his work is far from done. His upcoming book, Unbroken Bonds of Battle, is a reflection of his continued commitment to his fellow veterans and the lessons he has learned along the way. As his platform grows, Jones’ voice remains one of the most influential in discussions surrounding military affairs, personal resilience, and veteran advocacy.

Despite his own hardships, Jones remains focused on lifting others up, providing guidance and support to those navigating their own battles. His legacy isn’t just about surviving an IED blast; it’s about using his second chance to make a difference in the lives of others.

Conclusion: A Story of Triumph Over Adversity

Johnny Joey Jones’ story is one of unyielding courage, perseverance, and unwavering strength. From the day he stepped on that IED to his present role as a media figure, Jones has shown that no obstacle is insurmountable. His story continues to inspire those who face their own challenges, reminding them that strength isn’t about the battles we face, but how we choose to rise above them.

As Jones looks to the future, his mission remains clear: continue advocating for veterans, continue serving his community, and continue living a life defined by hope, resilience, and courage. Johnny Joey Jones is living proof that no matter how difficult the road, the human spirit can overcome even the greatest of adversities.