Dasan "Bubba" J.S. Halona

With profound sadness and immeasurable love, we announce the passing of Private First Class (PFC) Dasan Halona, who tragically passed away on August 20, 2026, at the age of 19, while serving on active duty in the United States Army.

 

Dasan was a beloved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, soldier, and friend whose life, though far too short, was filled with love, laughter, ambition, and purpose.

 

Born on September 2, 2006, at Fort Irwin, California, Dasan spent the first years of his life as an Army brat. His childhood took him from California to Washington State and Virginia before his family eventually settled in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the place he would come to call home.

 

Dasan was the firstborn son of Justine Mae-Yazzie and the first grandchild on both sides of his family. From the moment he entered this world, he was surrounded by love. He was spoiled, adored, and passed around like a little trophy by family members who couldn't get enough of him. As he grew, that same little boy developed into a handsome, confident, funny, compassionate, and determined young man.

 

Dasan attended school in Albuquerque and proudly graduated from Volcano Vista High School in 2025. Shortly after graduation, he began pursuing his military career by enlisting in the United States Army.

 

In August 2025, Dasan successfully completed Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He continued his military education at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, where he graduated from Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in March 2026 as a Combat Medic.

 

Following his graduation from AIT, Dasan received his first duty assignment to Fort Carson, Colorado, where he proudly served with the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

 

Dasan was excited about being stationed away from home. He welcomed the independence, new experiences, and opportunity to establish himself as a young soldier. Yet, despite enjoying life away from Albuquerque, he made every effort to return home whenever he had the chance. Those visits were treasured opportunities to reconnect with his mother, siblings, and loved ones.

 

Dasan was motivated and determined to excel in his military career. He dreamed of attending the Army's prestigious Ranger School and completing some of the most challenging training the military had to offer. His ambitions also extended beyond military service. Dasan planned to continue his education, earn a college degree, and eventually become a Doctor of Physical Therapy.

 

Dasan had a personality that could fill a room. He loved looking his best, often spending more time getting ready than anyone else in the house. Between fixing his hair, choosing his clothes, and making sure he smelled good in his favorite cologne, Dasan took pride in his appearance. Beneath that confident exterior was a gentle soul with an enormous heart.

 

Outside of his military career, Dasan enjoyed spending time in the gym, working out, and challenging himself physically. He also loved playing his guitar, playing video games, and, perhaps most importantly, enjoying a good meal. Dasan had a genuine appreciation for good food and never passed up the opportunity to eat something delicious. Whether he was lifting weights, playing his favorite games, strumming his guitar, or sitting down to a meal, he found happiness in life's everyday pleasures.

 

As the oldest of four children, Dasan took his role as big brother seriously. His siblings, Talaya, Akil, and Saliyah, adored him and looked up to him as their protector, role model, and hero. He encouraged them to work hard, pursue their goals, and strive to be better than he was. Of course, he was also the typical teasing older brother who loved tickling them until they screamed, picking on them, and using them as his personal pillows. Those moments of laughter and love are memories they will carry forever.

 

One of the greatest influences on Dasan's life was his close friendship with his best friend, Reece, who tragically passed away in 2025. Their friendship meant the world to him. Following Reece's passing, Dasan made a promise to honor his friend's memory by pursuing the toughest military training, building a meaningful future, and one day naming his first child after him. It was a promise rooted in loyalty, love, and the kind of friendship that lasts beyond a lifetime.

 

Dasan also had a deep personal faith. He made the independent decision to be baptized, a reflection of his spiritual journey and belief in a higher power. His faith helped guide him through life's challenges, particularly during times of heartbreak and loss.

 

Despite his strength and confidence, Dasan was never afraid to show his emotions. He was a gentle giant, a big teddy bear who loved deeply and felt things wholeheartedly. He could be strong and courageous while still finding comfort in his mother's arms when life became difficult.

 

Dasan is survived by his loving mother, Justine Mae-Yazzie; his three younger siblings, Talaya, Akil, and Saliyah Halona; his grandmother, Rita Yazzie; his grandfather, Jarvis Nez; his aunts, Michelle Halona, Kyra Tsosie, and Kayla Tsosie; and his uncle, Kyle Tsosie. He is also deeply missed by his extended family, fellow soldiers, and countless friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, laughter, and friendship.

 

Although Dasan's life was cut tragically short, the impact he made will continue through the people he inspired, the friendships he treasured, and the family who will carry his memory forward.

 

He had so much more life to live, so many dreams left to fulfill, and so much love left to give. While his family grieves the future they will never get to share with him, they remain forever grateful for the 19 beautiful years they were blessed to call him theirs.

 

Dasan will forever be remembered for his beautiful smile, contagious humor, unwavering determination, generous heart, and the unconditional love he had for his family.

 

Forever our son. Forever our brother. Forever our soldier. Forever loved. 🤍