Posted on: 1/27/2022
In Memoriam: Jeffrey Davis, LNC (ret), U.S. Navy Reserve - With Appreciation for your Service in our Former DRC mission
With deep sadness, we extend our condolences on the recent passing of a highly regarded former DIILS colleague, Mr. Jeffrey A. Davis, who was a Chief Legalman in the US Navy Reserve. He will forever remain a part of the DIILS extended family.
Chief Davis activated to DIILS between 2009 and 2013 as a member of the U.S. Navy Reserve to provide vital support to the conduct of our Rule of Law programs in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), selflessly volunteering to forward deploy to the DRC for multiple extended periods. There he effectively integrated with the U.S. Embassy security cooperation staff, and coordinated with representatives of the United Nations missions in DRC and the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) to deliver dozens of legal education and training programs throughout the Congo in support of the DRC military justice system and the FARDC legal community. He and the many DIILS teams he shepherded led seminars throughout the country focused on human rights, International Humanitarian Law/Law of Armed Conflict, as well as combating gender- and sexual-based violence, among other challenging topics. As one DIILS colleague said, “his smile was infectious and he could find the positive in the most challenging environments.” Another colleague offered, “Known simply as the ‘Chef du Village,’ Chief Davis positively impacted so many lives in the Congo. He trained thousands of soldiers on the principles of the law of armed conflict with the singular goal of limiting suffering, protecting civilians, and, the most vulnerable of all – Women and children. He was, and remains, a true American hero…his job was never easy, yet he persevered with grace and wisdom….”
Chief Davis received the Defense Meritorious Service Medal for his service at DIILS.
He was admired and respected by his colleagues and will be missed by all. Fair winds and following seas.
Please view the obituary here.