By MELISSA PEACOCK

LAPLACE – His name was Jabon Jabin Assanti, a name with royal roots. He was named in honor of an African king, a tribute to his African heritage.

Family members and friends said the regal title fit the U.S. Air Force veteran and Amite resident perfectly. He was strong, intelligent and respected – a natural leader.

“I named him,” his father, Reserve resident Benjamin Thomas, said proudly, dabbing tears from the corner of his eyes.

The bereaved father cried softly as Air Force representatives ceremoniously folded a large American flag and presented it to him in honor of his son, who passed away Sept. 1. The private ceremony was held recently at New Foundation for Life Church on Cambridge Drive in LaPlace.

“He was very kind, a humble young man,” Thomas said. “He use to encourage me a lot. That is one of the things I always loved about him.”

Jabon was stationed in Japan and he had flown home for his step-father’s funeral. Tragically, he died in an automobile accident before he could return to his post.

“Early Sunday (Sept. 1), coming from Amite to New Orleans, his car flipped on a curve,” Thomas said. “We do not know the cause. Maybe he went into the curve too fast and lost control. My niece called me at church Sunday and told me he was in an accident and did not make it.”

Jabon was pronounced dead at Charity Hospital in New Orleans.

He may have been young, but friends and family said Jabon had a head-full of dreams. A few days before his tragic death, he told his older brother he wanted to serve his country, save his money and eventually open his own business.

“He was planning on re-enlisting,” his father said full of emotion. “He wanted to stay in for eight years and save up enough to open his own business.

“He wanted to open up a fast-food-type restaurant.”

Three services were held to commemorate the Louisiana hero, including a miliary funeral with a 21-gun salute. On Sept. 6, he was taken to his final resting place.

“He is going to be missed by his brothers, sisters and his father,” Thomas said. “He was a very caring and wonderful young man. He was always concerned about other people and encouraging them.”

Thomas said receiving the flag from the Air Force representatives in memory of his son was “a wonderful honor.”