Staff Writer
For more than two decades, Sergeant First Class (Ret.) Jeff Zengerle dedicated his life to serving his country—first in the Active Army and later with the Texas Army National Guard. With over 23 years of service, Zengerle’s military journey reflects leadership, commitment, and a passion for helping others, both in and out of uniform.
Zengerle spent three years with the 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment before deploying to Kosovo in 2007 as part of the KFOR 7 peacekeeping mission. For the next 17 years, he proudly served with the 1st Battalion, 141st Infantry Regiment, where his leadership and expertise helped guide countless soldiers under his command.
In 2012, Zengerle deployed to Afghanistan with the Agribusiness Development Team, working directly with local farmers to teach sustainable farming and crop production practices. His service later took him to Egypt in 2019 and Kuwait in 2021.
Rising through the ranks, Zengerle achieved the rank of E-7—Sergeant First Class—in just 12 years, a testament to his dedication and skill. “I knew I was made for what I did,” he reflected. “Being in a senior role most of my career, I was always the go-to person.”
Since retiring from the Army, Zengerle hasn’t slowed down. With a chuckle and a smirk, he admits, “I’m ten times busier now.” He currently serves as the DeWitt County Veterans Service Officer and as Post Commander for the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post, continuing his lifelong mission of service by advocating for fellow veterans.
Beyond his professional roles, Zengerle is a devoted family man. He and his wife, Tamara, live in Cuero with their two children— Hudson, a junior, and Morgan, a freshman at Cuero High School. At home, the Zengerle family enjoys the simple pleasures of life on their mini farm, where they raise goats, chickens, and rabbits.
From the battlefield to the farm field, and now to his continued service within the community, Sgt. First Class (Ret.) Jeff Zengerle embodies the true spirit of dedication, leadership, and love for both country and community.
