PAUL HERBERT PROTZENKO; CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE WITH MPRI

DOB/DOD: October 1, 1964 (Agawam, MA) – July 9, 2011; 46 years old
MARITAL STATUS: Married Lyse M. Coulombe Santaniello (1954-)
CHILDREN: Two stepsons, Anthony J. Santaniello, Jr. (1978-) and Matthew C. Santaniello (1986-). One stepdaughter, Jennifer Jeffers (1975-)
LOCAL ADDRESS: Eleanor Road; Enfield
EMPLOYEE: MPRI, Inc.

FAMILY: Born to Harry H. (1932-) and Beverly J. Boyce Protzenko (1933-2016). Two sisters, Colette Protzenko Sparks (1956-) and Traci Protzenko (1961-).

CIRCUMSTANCES: Paul Protzenko was killed when an Afghani Army soldier opened fire on the convoy he was riding in. He was employed by Military Professional Resources Inc., a firm that does training and security work for the Department of Defense and the U.S. Army. Paul Protzenko was training Afghanistan national police members to work at crime scenes. Also killed in the incident:

Army Sergeant First Class Terry L. Pasker; Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Agawam (Massachusetts) High School Class of 1982

**Photo (left) from FindAGrave.com. Photo credit to Dave McCaffery. The photo (right) was contributed by Traci Protzenko.**

CT Police Academy in Meriden, Connecticut, receiving the Life Saving Award. The award was presented by Dr Henry Lee, who was the Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Safety. Dr. Lee was Chief Emeritus for the Connecticut State Police from 2000 to 2010, commissioner of Public Safety for Connecticut from 1998 to 2000, and Connecticut’s chief criminalist and director of the state police forensic laboratory from 1978 to 2000. Photo contributed by Traci Protzenko.

From Defense Visual Information Distribution Service on May 31, 2011
By U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Amber Ashcraft

PANJSHIR ANP [Afghan National Police] FIRST TO GRADUATE CSI [Crime Scene Investigation] TRAINING

**Photo by U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Amber Ashcraft.**

PANJSHIR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – More than 20 Afghan National Police members from Panjshir Province were the first to graduate from a crime scene investigation class in Bazarak Municipality, Afghanistan, on May 24.

Task Force Red Bulls rule-of-law office funded the four-day class, held by the law enforcement professionals attached to the Panjshir Embedded Training Team. It consisted of Afghan rule-of-law criminal procedures, crime scene procedures from the initial investigation through the prosecution in court, and the physical collection and preservation of evidence to be presented in court.

“Before the graduation, we wanted the class to break into teams and work in simulated crime scenes,” said Paul Protzenko, a law enforcement professional. “We set up a murder/homicide scene and a breaking/entering situation. The teams used investigation kits and got right to work on collecting evidence and evaluating the crime scenes.”

Using the training they learned in the CSI class, the students established specific roles for the investigation, collected biometrics of the witnesses and a victim, and obtained evidence from the crime scenes, including weapons and fingerprints.

The students split up their roles in the investigations to include the photographer, evidence collector, witness interviewer, and sketch artist. The teams used investigation kits provided by the rule-of-law office to accurately pull up fingerprints and collect all evidence found. “For the actual time in class being so short, those in attendance were very eager to learn new investigative skills and how to use the kits,” Brown said. “This is the first investigative training that went a little more in-depth into lifting fingerprints, taking better crime scene photographs and information about ballistics from weapons.”
Following the review and evaluation of the investigations, Afghan National Police Brigadier General Qasim Jangalbagh, the Panjshir Provincial Police Chief, joined the class to pass out certificates during the graduation.

“I appreciate the instructors for having this crucial training,” said Qasim through an interpreter. “It is very beneficial, and I hope for more crimes to be solved with the knowledge of these new skills and resources.”

Three more classes will be held to train more than 60 ANP members. Investigation kits will also be signed out to individual units of the members that attended, including the Criminal Investigation Division, Afghan National Directorate of Security, and Counter-Narcotic and Intelligence units.

“When many of us started as investigators, practical training was never given,” said ANP Deputy Daber of the CID department at the Provincial Headquarters through an interpreter. “Now that we all have had more hands-on practice with professionals, we’re confident that we’ll be able to catch guilty suspects using the knowledge and kits we attained from the class.”

***Afghan National Police members bag evidence and collect fingerprints from a simulated crime scene during a Crime Scene Investigation class May 24.***

Afghan National Police Captain Ajab Gul, anti-terrorism chief with Panjshir Police Headquarters, lifts fingerprints from a simulated crime scene during a Crime Scene Investigation class held by law enforcement professionals attached to Panjshir Embedded Training Team in Bazarak Municipality, Panjshir Province.

From The Des Moines (Iowa) Register July 14, 2011
By Tony Leys

FINAL TRIP ENDED TRAGICALLY

Guard missions were routine in the Afghan area where a Cedar Rapids soldier was slain last week

The tragedy that struck the Iowa National Guard last weekend shows how, in Afghanistan, even a routine errand in a supposedly safe place can turn deadly. A small contingent of Iowa Guardsmen in the northeastern province of Panjshir had run 182 missions without serious complications since arriving last fall. Just days away from returning home to Iowa, they headed out Saturday morning for one last mission. Their destination was a town 45 minutes down the road, where they were to instruct local police officers on handling criminal cases. Then, they would say goodbye to some of the Afghan officials they’d been mentoring before returning to their small base to continue packing. But in a flash, a rogue Afghan soldier killed two Americans and wounded a third along the roadside before being shot to death. Scores of angry villagers then surrounded the cluster of Americans, threatening to kill more of them. The Iowans’ commander said Wednesday that without the heroic reflexes of one of his sergeants plus a large dose of good fortune — many more Afghans and Americans probably would have died. Lieutenant Colonel Timothy Glynn of Ankeny told The Des Moines Register that the trouble began when an Afghan soldier waved down the second of four lightly armored pickup trucks carrying the Iowa troops, civilian contractors, and interpreters. The Americans didn’t know the man, but they could see he was a member of the national intelligence service. “He used his uniform to get us to stop. We usually wouldn’t stop for anyone.” Glynn said by phone from Afghanistan. The commander noted that some media reports have said the man argued with people in the truck. That isn’t true, he said. Instead, the man immediately fired into the pickup, killing its driver, Sergeant First Class Terry Paster of Cedar Rapids, and a civilian contractor, Paul Protzenko of Enfield, Connecticut. Master Sergeant Todd Eipperle of Marshalltown. who had been driving the pickup in front of Paskes’s track, stopped his vehicle and ran back to confront the attacker. The gunman, who had reloaded, wheeled around and fired from a few feet away. Eipperle later told his commander, “He said it was shocking. “He looked me right in the eye and shot me,” Glynn said. The master sergeant, who was hit in his right hip and left knee, returned fire as he fell to the ground. He hit and killed the gunman, undoubtedly saving the lives of a second American contractor and two interpreters, Glynn said. The lieutenant colonel and a handful of other soldiers had been following in two vehicles a few minutes behind the first two trucks. By the time the second group arrived on the scene, outraged villagers had gathered and were yelling at the Americans. The gunman was from their village, and the villagers might not have understood that he had started the gun battle that led to his death, Glynn said. The villagers threatened to fetch guns and rocket-propelled grenades and attack the rest of the Americans. Afghan police did little to help quell the crowd, and they urged the Iowa commander to move his soldiers out of the area. Glynn said he refused and summoned medical evacuation helicopters to the scene. While two of his soldiers prepared a landing zone, Glynn and four others fended off a crowd of 150 to 200 screaming villagers for the 20 to 30 minutes it took for the helicopters to arrive. “It was like a really bad movie,” he said. I was just praying to God that we wouldn’t have to open fire and that they wouldn’t open fire on us.” Armed U.S. aircraft could have been called in to help, he said, but that could have caused many more deaths. Eventually, the medical helicopters took the dead and wounded away, and the rest of the shaken unit was able to withdraw. The incident happened in an unexpected spot. Panjshir is a fiercely independent area whose people managed to keep out the Soviet army and the Taliban and allied themselves with the Americans. The Province is so safe that U.S. soldiers rarely drive the heavily armored trucks seen nearly everywhere else in Afghanistan in which Afghan forces will formally take control of security this year. Several of Glynn’s team members had already left the province and were preparing to start their 7,000-mile journey home before Saturday. “The guys that weren’t there, kind of feel guilty — that they weren’t there to help,” Glynn said Wednesday. “I told them it was not their fault. They were doing their mission. They were doing what they were supposed to do. There was nothing else we could have done.” Eipperle was flown to an Army hospital in Germany this week and has been able to get up and walk a bit, said his wife, Julie Eipperle. She said he hopes to be transferred to a military hospital in Fort Riley, Kansas, this week. Julie Eipperle said her husband credited his 25 years of Guard training for his ability to react instantly to Saturday’s attack. “From the way it sounds, if he’d had to think about it, the outcome might have been different,” she said. Todd Eipperle, 46, previously deployed to Kuwait and Iraq. He re-enlisted for six more years during his current deployment. After the ceremony this spring, he sent Julie a photo of Glynn swearing him in on a mountaintop near their small base. “He loves his job; he loves the National Guard. He believes in what he’s doing,” said Julie Eipperle, who supports his decision. She hopes the Guard will face fewer overseas deployments in the future, but she’s sure her husband would be willing to go on another one if he’s called. “He didn’t sign up for another six years just to sit home,” she said. The Iowa Guard held a memorial service for Pasker at Bagram Airfield on Wednesday, and his comrades will continue mourning as they return to the United States. Glynn said Pasker, 39, was an upbeat, matter-of-fact soldier who was proud to be on his second tour of Afghanistan but talked often about his plans to retire from the military. “He saw this as his last hoorah before he returned home and focused on his contracting business and starting a family,” the commander said. Protzenko, the American civilian who was killed, was a retired Connecticut state trooper who helped teach Afghan police how to conduct proper investigations, Glynn said. Protzenko and another retired American police officer served with the Iowans during the whole deployment, and they were essential members of the team, the lieutenant colonel said. Glynn’s unit was cobbled together from soldiers from around the state, many of whom had never served together before this deployment. But they became especially close because they were such a small group. Glynn said despite the deployment’s tragic ending, he said, they should always remember their contributions to Panjshir, one of the most promising areas of Afghanistan. He said Guard commanders would make sure the veterans receive any support they need to deal with the deaths of their comrades. Army investigators are looking into the Afghan gunman’s motives. Glynn said he couldn’t speculate on that issue. Afghan officials told the New York Times that the man was a bodyguard for a top commander in the Afghan intelligence service and was not believed to have any ties to the Taliban.

From The Des Moines (Iowa) Register July 18, 2011

SOLDIER RECALLS AFGHANISTAN SHOOTOUT
The Iowan is home days after shooting a gunman who wounded him and killed two comrades.

MARSHALLTOWN, IOWA – Here’s how determined Todd Eipperle is: You can shoot him in one hip and in the other knee, and he’ll still find a way to bounce his baby granddaughter on his leg. He performed the feat on his couch Sunday afternoon, making 8-month-old Lola grin as if she understood how lucky she was to have her grandpa alive. Eight days earlier and 7,000 miles away, a strange man in Afghanistan killed two of her grandfathers’ comrades and then tried to kill him. Eipperle, a master sergeant in the Iowa National Guard, was wounded, but he saved himself and several others by shooting back and killing the attacker. The incident happened during what was supposed to be the soldiers’ last mission before they returned to Iowa with more than 2,800 other National Guard troops. Eipperle’s trip home included short stays in Army hospitals in Afghanistan. Germany and Kansas. He has at least a month of rehabilitation ahead in Kansas, but he was granted a few days’ pass home so he could attend today’s funeral of his friend, Sergeant First Class Terry Pasker of Cedar Rapids, who was killed in the attack. The gunman hit Eipperle from a few feet away, but the bullets passed through his hip and knee without damaging any bones. “It’s just incredible,” said the soldier, who can hobble a bit on crutches. Eipperle, 46, said the shooting brought a bizarre, tragic ending to a productive deployment to Panjshir province, one of the most tranquil spots in Afghanistan. No one in his 10-man unit had fired a shot in anger until last Saturday. It’s a nice, quiet, peaceful little province… That’s why it was hard for me to realize at first that this was actually happening,” he said of the attack. Six of the unit’s soldiers had already left the province to begin their trips home. Eipperle, Pasker, and two others had stayed behind to finish up a few tasks and to show the ropes to their replacements. On Saturday morning, Eipperle was driving a lightly armored pickup truck to a training and farewell meeting with Afghan policemen. Pasker was driving a second truck. As they passed through a village, they saw a broken-down car by the side of the road and an officer from the national intelligence agency waving them down. Eipperle said they didn’t know the officer, but they decided to stop. “I thought, ‘Well, they must need help, and we’re supposed to help,’“ he recalled. His interpreter asked the security officer what was wrong, and the officer immediately started shouting angry questions, including why the Americans were there. “My interpreter said. ‘We need to get out of here. This guy’s crazy.’ Eipperle radioed the second truck to say they were moving on. But the people in the second truck apparently didn’t get the message because they didn’t immediately follow. Eipperle said he drove 50 feet or so, then got out of his truck because he figured the radio signals weren’t carrying in the mountainous area. As he waved his arm forward in a “let’s go” motion, he saw the gunman fire a pistol into the second truck. Eipperle wasn’t wearing his body armor or helmet because American soldiers don’t routinely do so in Panjshir. There was no time to put the equipment on now, so he just grabbed his assault rifle and ran toward the second truck. He looked in and saw that Pasker and an American contractor, retired Connecticut state trooper Paul Protzenko, were gravely wounded. Then he saw the gunman, who had reloaded the pistol, aiming at him from behind the truck. “I’m pretty sure he was planning on killing us all,” Eipperle said. Eipperle shouted at him to stop, but the man shot him in the hip and the knee. As Eipperle fell backward, he fired about six times, hitting the gunman in the chest. As soon as Eipperle could collect himself, he fired a couple more times. “At that point, I wasn’t taking any chances,” he said. The master sergeant said he didn’t have time to be frightened during the incident, which he figures took less than two minutes. The terror of it hit later. He said his commander has said Eipperle’s actions undoubtedly saved other lives, including those of two interpreters and a second American contractor. Eipperle plans to attend Pasker’s funeral, which is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. today at the River of Life Ministries in Cedar Rapids. He doesn’t think he’ll have the strength to speak publicly, but he’ll quietly remember the way his friend brought life and fun to their little unit. Pasker, 39, had been married for just a few years, and he intended to start a family. He was proud to have deployed twice to Afghanistan, but he was ready to retire from the military and concentrate on his carpentry business. “He’d be bragging. “Yeah, I’m gonna be retired in six months. I won’t be seeing you guys anymore,’” Eipperle recalled with a smile. “He’d harass us every day. “You guys are going to be doing drills, and I’m going to be sitting home.’ He really rubbed it in.” Eipperle, who previously served in Iraq, re-enlisted for six more years while he was in Afghanistan. But because he already has served more than 20 years in the military, he would be allowed to opt out of any future deployments. In fact, he could have declined to go last summer, but he’s glad he went. In civilian life, Eipperle is a longtime administrator for the Boy Scouts, and he’ll continue to tell the young men he meets about the experiences he’s had in the National Guard. We don’t want them to be discouraged about the military,” he said. “I still think it’s a really good opportunity.”

From The World (Coos Bay, OR) on July 28, 2011
By Diana West

IDIOTIC POLITENESS DOCTRINE IS KILLING SOLDIERS

This week, the madness of the counterinsurgency doctrine (COIN), which drives the war in Afghanistan, reached new heights — or depths — as revealed by two news stories. In Great Britain, a former Royal Marine told the Sun newspaper after the inquest into the 2010 death of Sergeant Peter Rayner that soldiers were prevented from opening fire at Taliban fighters in the act of laying IEDs (crude, handmade bombs) so as not to disturb the local population. So as not to disturb? In Iowa, a community mourns the death of National Guard soldier Terry L. Pasker, who, along with contractor Paul Protzenko, was last week in yet another attack by an Afghan army soldier. The reports U.S. military considered the area so safe that soldiers didn’t wear body armor, so as not to offend the friendly locals.” So as not to offend? Fear of offending has long been a salient feature of our culture. It’s become an expression of a self-deprecating, if not self-loathing, society where the “dead white males” who brought us “Hamlet,” the Constitution and the light bulb have become embarrassments for non-Western religion, the very lack of which is deemed offensive. Since 9/11, however, this psychosis has had a new application — the ultimate point of my book The Death of the Grown-Up (St. Martin’s Press, 2007). In today’s war zone, fear of giving offense is fatal, as noted above. But it also applies as the foundational precept of “dhimmitude,” the twisted state of non-Muslims in thrall to Islam, a condition long observed and documented by the visionary historian Bat Ye’or. The fear of giving Muslims offense is the most profound acquiescence to Islamic cultural pressures because it is driven, at base, by a conviction that self-preservation as a non-Muslim is itself offensive in a Muslim society. The fact is, Muslim societies across time and continents have forced non-Muslims to pay a tax, the jizya, to remain non-Muslims and have inflicted all manner of humiliations, physical and mental, upon them as a matter of Islamic law, or Shariah, for doing so. Where Islamic law is not officially in effect, Bat Ye’or explains, the de facto state of dhimmitude may still arise and flourish in the habitual appeasement of Islamic sensibilities to forestall the occasional violent eruption or attempt — the odd 9/11, 7/7, or thwarted Times Square bombing. The net effect of all this appeasement, this dhimmitude, is the creeping — galloping incursions of Islamic law into non-Islamic institutions and societies. In Afghanistan, the same triggers are in place. We have an infidel army walking on eggs to placate, cajole, and bribe an Islamic society into supporting what are, any way you cut them, infidel values and interests against those of the indigenous Islamic jihadist groups. To this end, Western military authorities now specifically ordain that the Quran must be revered (or else freedom of speech must be denounced by the highest Western military officials (or else violence might ensue). These capitulations on bedrock Western traditions of speech, conscience, and human rights could occur only under a debased leadership, military and civilian. When the fear of giving offense to the local Islamic community (by shooting Taliban or wearing body armor) trumps self-preservation (by shooting Taliban or wearing body armor), we know the military’s dhimmitude is complete. What I am describing, of course, is the execution of the COIN doctrine to win Afghan “trust,” also known as “hearts and minds.” As Brigadier General Steven Kwast put it in 2009: “Victory in this conflict is about winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people and engendering their trust. When the Afghan people trust us and believe us when we tell them what we’re going to do, we will win this overnight.” Tell it to the Easter Bunny. Meanwhile, our troops pay the price, and our military is dhimmified. Taking off troops’ body armor so as not to offend friendly Afghans? Are they kidding?

Memorialized on the Veterans Wall in Johnny Ro Veteran’s Memorial Park, Mechanic Street, and Johnny Appleseed Lane, Leominster, Massachusetts.

***Photo from HMdb.org. Photo credit to Craig Doda.***

The photo (left) is of a paver at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The photo (top) is of a memorial wall at Fort Hood, Texas. Photos contributed by Collette Protzenko Sparks through Todd Eipperle.

Condolences from leetestevens.com

Dear Trooper Paul Protzenko Family,

Everyone was feeling as though their spine froze when we heard about the attack. It worsened when we heard how SFC Terry Pasker and MPRI Trainer/Advisor for ALP Paul Protzenko were involved in that unfortunate attack on 9 July 2011. My sincere condolences and I wanted his family and children to know he was incredibly strong, smart, intelligent, and respectful. This news hit all of us very hard. While we were at Bagram from 4th July or shortly earlier, we were rapping up our mission to Panjshir and getting ready to head home when this news by 11 am or so broke into our office by a new Lieutenant Colonel who walked into the office and very smoothly and succinctly without making it any more or less than what it was, told us, some of our friends from Panjshir FOB Lion were involved in a fatal shooting, in fact more than two. One survived and is at Bagram Hospital recovering. MSG Todd Eipperle. I wanted you to know we had a great respect for Paul and all those civilians and U.S. military who were involved closely with training the Afghan Police. God Bless, and may his soul and his memories be with you forever. RIP.

— Felix Gregorian, Major, U.S. Army (retired)

Paul was a rare and unique man. I consider myself very fortunate to have been a part of his life. He served proudly, professionally, and honorably as a US Army Paratrooper, a Connecticut State Trooper, and finally, as a representative of the United States training foreign police officers. Paul had many difficult periods in his life, but the quality that all will remember him by was his positive attitude no matter how bad the situation. His sense of humor always could brighten your day. He loved serving his country, the public, and, most importantly, his family. Quiet and reserved most times, he taught me what it meant to sacrifice for others. In his heart, the most important things in his life were his children, whom he loved dearly, and above all, his devoted wife. I will live the rest of my life regretting that I had lost touch with Paul over the last few years. People like Paul are a rare gift to those of us who have the chance to know them. Rest in peace, my friend. I will never forget you.

— Dave Michalczyk

A Tribute to my favorite brother, Paul Protzenko by Colette Sparks, his oldest sister.

My brother Paul was born on October 1, 1964. He was a big, beautiful blond baby. He was loved dearly by his parents, Harry and Beverly, and his sisters, Traci and Colette. He was kind and gentle. He was of slight stature and was bullied in school. He learned to think smarter and train his body and mind to be strong so that he wouldn’t be bullied anymore. He was an altar boy, a Boy Scout, and a fabulous brother. He served as an altar boy at my wedding in 1974.

He went to schools in Agawam [Massachusetts] and worked at the corner gas station. He had a great sense of humor. People would ask for directions to Riverside Park. He could be very creative. He had developed a strong work ethic early in life by mirroring his parents. We enjoyed vacations in Maine as children. Playing in the surf and collecting shells was an enjoyable activity. Paul collected stamps and Beatles music. Paul was very proud of his 1964 Mustang. He enjoyed traveling, adventures, meeting people, and going out to eat. You would never know it to look at him.

He was always thoughtful, helpful, mindful, and selfless. He was always trying to protect people. He participated in karate tournaments during his tour of duty with the 82nd Airborne. He was dropped into the Panama Canal with his full pack and the company radio. He was prone to pneumonia after that episode. I picked him up at the airport when he got out of the army. He had his duffle bag and his sense of humor. He picked me up and threw me over his shoulder. | told him to put me down and that | was the big sister. He laughed and walked out of the airport.

My brother did in several weeks of his early adult life what most people would spend much longer to do. He graduated from the police academy, got married to Lyse, who had three children, bought a house in Enfield, CT, and began working as a state trooper in H Troop. He was very good at all of these things. I was always in awe of him. He was so strong and able to manage so many responsibilities at once. He worked overtime frequently. He was so good with the kids. He was a true inspiration.

He went to Asnuntuck Community College to earn his degree in criminal justice. He always wanted to obtain the next higher level. When he was in the Airborne, he had hopes of being in the Special Forces. He worked on his marksmanship skills while he was a State Trooper. He learned how to invest for his retirement without needing a financial advisor. He had a dream of retiring to Myrtle Beach and enjoying his family and dog. He thought it might be fun to be a food critic. He loved to eat.

I used email or Skype to communicate with Paul while he was working for MPRI. We used to exchange family photos and talk about ways to use our MacBook Pros to keep in touch. I had hoped that we would video chat, as I wasn’t able to see him on his short trips home as often as I would have liked. He enjoyed his photography and was planning to send some new pictures just as soon as he got enough bandwidth. He always asked how the pups were doing. They were just as important as another family.

I knew something was wrong on Friday. I had an overwhelming feeling of dread. I had sent a message to Paul before I went to work. He didn’t respond. He was online when I sent the message. He always responded, even if it was a little later. I always checked when I got to work and again when I got home.

Saturday was the worst day of my life. My husband and best friend, Ed, came to work to tell me my favorite baby brother had been killed in Afghanistan. I am so heartbroken. He had so much love for life and family. This was a place where he was working so hard to help these people have a better life. He frequently said the locals really liked and respected him. He had been there the longest of any of the team members. He should not have died the way he did. He was not in a combat position; he was teaching.

I received an ecard from him on the Fourth of July in which he stated, “Freedom isn’t free.” What a price he paid.

My parents, sister, and I, along with our husbands, are devastated. He was such a joy. Just a very positive, happy, great person. I always prayed that he would be kept safe from harm. I will continue to pray for him, love him, and miss him always.

May you rest pain-free free my favorite brother. I love you. You will be in my heart forever. Colette, the oldest sister.

Testimonial from Traci Protzenko, Paul’s sister

Anyone who was familiar with my brother knew that he lived to serve others. It was his mission from an early age. Paul was a kind, caring, and considerate person who was always ready and willing to help others. This started early in life with him providing help to the elderly in his community (raking leaves, helping with chores, or just a visit when someone was lonely). He was also an altar server at his church in Agawam, Ma. His entire adult life was dedicated to the welfare of those he served, both in the state of CT and the United States of America. Upon graduating from high school, Paul wished to emulate his father, who was a veteran of the Korean War, so he enlisted with the 82nd Airborne Division of the Army. During his enlistment, he functioned as a paratrooper serving on several foreign bases, the longest assignment being in Vincenza, Italy. During his tenure, he achieved the rank of Sergeant and earned many medals and badges. After successfully completing his service to his country, he was honorably discharged and returned home to Agawam.

In 1988, Paul applied to the Connecticut State Police Academy and was accepted. He graduated as a member of the 98th Training Troop on September 8. Paul proudly served the State of Connecticut as a Trooper First Class (Badge # 1244) for 21 years until his retirement in 2009. Paul received a meritorious service medal and a life-saving medal twice during his tenure with the State Police. Upon his retirement, he was recommended by the State Police for the position in Afghanistan. As such, he left immediately for Afghanistan to work as a member of a Police Mentoring Team. Paul served as a Law Enforcement Professional (LEP) with the Department of Defense. Paul was embedded with various military units, with the goal being to train Afghan police officers in order to help the country form a more stable government. Paul took great pride in his work and was respected by his team as well as the village elders. He took his assignment very seriously and worked diligently to bring about productive and effective changes to the Afghan people. In May of 2011, Paul was instrumental in bringing the first crime scene investigative class to more than 20 Afghan National Police Members. This innovative class was well received and written up in the Army Magazine, “Stars and Stripes.”

Paul spent over two years working with various military units and was considered an integral part of the team and someone who could provide valuable insight into police matters. Quotes from team members: “Paul’s sense of humor was widely known among the Provincial Reconstruction Team. “He would brighten spirits and attitudes.” “He was a wonderful person who always had a smile and a kind word for others, along with a great sense of humor.” “He was a great American and a great representative of Americans who showed great dedication to duty and in his attempts to help the Afghan people.” “Paul was strong, steady, and demonstrated profound humility; he was the embodiment of a public servant, and I am a better person for having known him.”

Paul died carrying out the cause he believed in, that being the dedication to the needs and well-being of others. He gave 100% of his effort to each of his service-oriented jobs. He completed them with dignity, along with a sense of pride and commitment to duty. He always had a warm, wonderful, and enduring smile that could light up a room and put others at ease. He was good-natured, friendly, funny, upbeat, and maintained a positive attitude. He viewed problems as challenges to be solved rather than as insurmountable tasks.

Paul was born a fair-haired child with an angelic face and was instantly loved by his parents and two older sisters. He was an active child who studied karate, played baseball, and skied. He loved the beach and spent his summers as a youth at Ocean Park Beach in Maine. As a child, Paul was accident-prone and was the cause of many gray hairs in his mother. This concern continued throughout his life as Paul engaged in one dangerous job after another. His family was always worried for his safety but were supportive of his wishes and dreams. Paul loved his many adventures in life and always found a positive aspect to each. Throughout his life, Paul was a ray of sunshine to all of us. Paul did not become a hero at the time of his death; he was a hero his whole life. He sacrificed himself both in his personal and professional lives, always putting the needs of others first. His death is an incredible loss to our family and has left a huge hole in our hearts. My parents, sister, and I will love him always and profoundly miss him for the rest of our lives.

Memorialized with a bench at the Connecticut Trees of Honor Memorial, Walnut Grove Road, Middletown, Connecticut.

Award in his name during the American Legion State Police Week program.

Paul Protzenko is inurned in Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main Street, Agawam, Massachusetts; Section Wall E, Row B, Plot 8.

SPECIALIST DENNIS JOSEPH PRATT; ARMY

DOB/DOD: January 7, 1975 (Waterbury, CT) – July 20, 2009; 34 years old
MARITAL STATUS: Married Michelle L. Bryant (1976-) on May 9, 2008 in Lawton, Oklahoma
CHILDREN: Two stepsons, Collin Kessler (-) and Caden Bryant (-). One daughter, Gabrielle Pratt (-).
LOCAL ADDRESS: Queen Terrace; Southington
ENLISTMENT: January 2008
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY: 13D10; Field Artillery Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist
UNIT: Headquarters & Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 25th Field Artillery Regiment (Strike); 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division; Fort Drum, New York

FAMILY: Born to Jim (-) and Lorraine “Lori” C. Derouin Pratt (1951-2003). One stepmother, Sinnamon Pratt (-). One brother, Jim (-). One sister, Leanna Pratt (-). One stepbrother, Kyle Hansen (-).

DECORATIONS: Awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with device, Global War on Terrorism (Service), Army Overseas Ribbon, NATO ISAF (International Security Assistance Force) Medal – Afghanistan, Combat Action Badge, Rifle Marksman Expert badge, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.

CIRCUMSTANCES: Specialist Pratt was killed by wounds sustained when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated near his vehicle, followed by an attack from enemy forces using small arms and rocket-propelled grenades. Also killed in this incident:

Army Sergeant Gregory Owens Jr.; Garland, TX
Army Specialist Anthony M. Lightfoot; Riverdale, GA
Army Specialist Andrew J. Roughton; Houston, TX

Southington High School; Connecticut Class of 1994. Also selected for the school’s “Wall of Honor” in 2012.

Yearbook photo from the 1993 yearbook, his junior year. It was contributed by **Jess Angell, Library Media and Instructional Technology Specialist, Southington High School.**

**Photo contributed by Richard Aroian, Principal, Southington High School**

From SwokNews.com on August 1, 2009
By Mitch Meador

FRIENDS, FAMILY SALUTE SLAIN DUNCAN SOLDIER

The 34-year-old soldier from Duncan was posthumously promoted from private first class to specialist by Brigadier General Jeff Buchanan, deputy commanding general for the 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, New York, at a funeral service on Fort Sill. Buchanan said the promotion was “based on his performance and what his fellow soldiers thought of him.” “He was exceptionally dedicated to his country, to the unit, and to getting the job done,” the general said. As a soldier, he was “devoted to taking care of his buddies. He was a quiet professional as well.” Buchanan assured Pratt’s wife and three children that they “were always a topic of conversation with him and his buddies. He was always talking about his family and his plans for his family.” Buchanan also awarded Pratt the Bronze Star for heroism and service in combat to Task Force Spartan and Combined Joint Task Force 82, the Purple Heart for the wounds he received on the day he died, and the Good Conduct Medal “for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity.” Buchanan presented the papers for his promotion and the citations for the awards to Pratt’s wife, Michelle, and his father, Jim. Pratt was one of four soldiers who died July 20 in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device blew up near their vehicle, followed by an attack from enemy forces using small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fires. The others were Sergeant Gregory Owens Jr., 24, of Garland, Texas; Specialist Andrew J. Roughton, 21, of Houston; and Specialist Anthony M. Lightfoot, 20, of Riverdale, Ga. They were assigned to the 4th Battalion, 25th Field Artillery (STRIKE), 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y. “You can’t say one thing about one of them without saying the same thing about all of them. They were just that type of guy,” said Sergeant 1st Class Kendrick Bradford, who delivered the eulogy at Pratt’s funeral. The others called Pratt “Pop” because he was the oldest of all of them, and he watched over all of them, Bradford said. Buchanan said it was also because he would sit and listen to them and give them advice from time to time. Bradford said Pratt told the others the right thing to do to get kudos from the noncommissioned officers, and he “could always say something to put a smile on your face.” “As Specialist Pratt looks down from heaven, I look up to him to continue to guide us with strength and protectiveness. … We’ll finish what we start because that’s what he would have wanted,” Bradford said. Chaplain Captain Namen Bouma of Duncan said what he had learned was that Pratt was “light-hearted (and) enjoyed having a good time, and second, he enjoyed being in the Army.” He was a fan of hard rock music, but while living in Texas, he started listening to “some” country. “Dennis Pratt walked uprightly, and he did his duty,” Buchanan said. “He joined his Army when the country needed him, and he certainly didn’t have to. He served everyone in this room … and he served the people of Afghanistan, too. … “He was led by values. Jim, Dennis didn’t get those values from the Army. He got them from his family. “Michelle, I want to thank you for sharing him with us because Dennis made a difference. … Selfless service means putting the needs of others before your own. That’s exactly how he lived his life. … He volunteered to take extra guard shifts from time to time. He helped his buddies out,” Buchanan said. “He didn’t lose his life. He gave his life. It’s a big difference in how you approach things,” the general said. Pratt was born January 7, 1975, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Jim and Lori Pratt. He graduated from high school in Southington, Connecticut, where he grew up. After graduation, he moved to Arizona, Duncan, and then Texas, where he joined the Army. He married the former Michelle Bryant of Chickasha on May 9, 2008, in Lawton. He completed basic training at Fort Sill and was then stationed at Fort Drum. He deployed to Afghanistan on January 6, 2009. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lori. He is survived by his wife, Michelle; three children, Collin Kessler, Gabrielle Pratt, and Caden Bryant, all of the home; parents, Jim and Sinnamon Pratt; mother and father-in-law, Fred and Margaret Bryant; two brothers, Jim Pratt and wife Staci and their children, Miranda, D.J. and Morgan; and Kyle Hansen and wife Nicole and their daughter Calista; a stepsister, Leanna Pratt; and many other relatives and friends.

From FindAGrave.com

Specialist Pratt was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 25th Field Artillery (Strike), 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, New York. He died of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle, followed by an attack from enemy forces using small arms and rocket-propelled grenades. A shell hit in front of the Humvee he was driving, another hit behind him, and with nowhere to go, the third shell hit the vehicle and tore it in two. Dennis graduated from high school in Southington, Connecticut. After graduation, he moved to Arizona, Duncan, and then to Texas. He was never able to find a career that he was interested in, so in January 2008, he joined the Army. It turned out to be what he was looking for all along – he loved it and was going to make a career out of the military. At the age of 34, Dennis was quite a bit older than the others in boot camp. He was called Pop, Pops, or Old Man but was looked up to as the man who lived, slept, and breathed the Army. While training for mountain artillery, it turned out that he could sight in howitzers better than his sergeants. On January 6, 2009, he was deployed to Afghanistan as a field artillery automated tactical data systems specialist and re-enlisted while there. He wanted to become a military police officer. His awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal and Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star. Dennis was a family-oriented, fun-loving man with a goofy smile and striking blue eyes. He was only two days shy of coming home to see his wife, Michelle, and three children when he was killed. Dennis called his wife before going out on a mission and told her, “Baby, I’m packed; I’m ready to go, ready to come home. I’ll be leaving on Wednesday. I can’t wait.” It was the last time she heard from him. Dennis wasn’t supposed to be placed in harm’s way that close to R&R, but knowing Dennis, his family feels he would have volunteered to help anytime and anyway he could.

From Legacy.com

We first met Dennis at our son Jason’s house. Dennis and Jason were friends from the start when Jason and Melissa moved to Arizona. We would see Dennis many times at Jason’s when we visited there. Dennis was always there to help with whatever was needed. He had an enthusiastic work ethic that was exemplary; I’m sure his superiors in the Army recognized this trait in Dennis from the start. It was clear that he put 100% into everything that he attempted.

Dennis had an enormous appetite. He loved food. My wife, Carol, enjoyed cooking Italian specialties for him. Dennis’s favorite was Eggplant Parmigiano. In May 2009, we mailed a box of goodies to Dennis; he conveyed his appreciation to us for the package, and we were pleased that we made his time in Afghanistan a little lighter.

Sadly, we were jolted when our son called us on July 24th to announce Dennis’s death. My wife is particularly heartbroken…he was such a fine young man. We will miss his smile, his conversation, and his love of life. We know he was proud of his Army career; he was doing what he enjoyed. We will always keep Dennis in our hearts.

— Ray and Carol Patrone

In the few times I had the pleasure of talking with Dennis, he struck me as a genuinely great man through and through. His heart was full of joy as he expressed love for his family and friends. His dedication was unwavering, as was his passion for reaching upwards and onwards to a better life for himself and his family. His chosen purpose in life was a rare but wonderful one, being dedicated to enriching the lives of others, whether by defending our freedom or bringing a ray of sunshine to everyone’s day he came in contact with. Wherever he is, up in heaven, I believe he still has that grin which brings a smile to anyone’s face. He was a ray of sunshine wherever he was then, and I believe he is a ray of sunshine wherever he is now.

— Ross Smith

PFC Pratt, I thought you were a pretty weird dude on my first day at basic training. But over those ten weeks, we became friends. You helped me a lot in basic, keeping me strong to power through. I was in Trashcanistan at the same time you were. I talked to Lightfoot at my barracks when he was headed home on leave. He told me you were doing all right, and I asked him to say hi to you for me. I miss you bud.

— Unsigned

Memorialized on the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Memorial, 10th Mountain Division Drive north of South Riva Ridge Loop, Fort Drum, New York.

**Photo from Historical Marker Database. Photo credit to William J. Fischer, Jr.**

Specialist Pratt is buried in Fort Sill National Cemetery, 2648 NE Jake Dunn Road, Elgin, Oklahoma; Section 3, Site 866.

**Photo from FindAGrave.com and contributor csallen.**

CORPORAL JORDAN CHRISTOPHER PIERSON; MARINE CORPS RESERVES

DOB/DOD: June 22, 1985 (St. Petersburg, FL) – August 25, 2006; 21 years old
MARITAL STATUS: Unmarried
LOCAL ADDRESS: Dunbar Road; Milford
ENLISTMENT: July 2003
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY: 0311; Rifleman
UNIT: C Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment (Regional Combat Team-5), 4th Marine Division; Plainville, Connecticut

FAMILY: Born to Eric C. (1960-) and Beverley A. True Pierson (1956-). One brother, Ethan (1995-).

DECORATIONS: Awarded the Purple Heart Medal with device (two-time recipient), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with combat distinguishing device, National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal (Service), Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, and the Combat Action Ribbon.

CIRCUMSTANCES: Killed in action while on foot patrol in Fallujah, Iraq.

OTHER: Jordan delayed academics at the University of Connecticut when he was activated. He was killed while on patrol in Fallujah, Iraq. He was interested in the profession of arms and read many books on counter-insurgency tactics. He studied German, and while in Iraq, he developed a proficiency in Arabic. On a lighter note, his parents said that he took French in high school because that’s the class all the girls were in. He was also a member of the Complete Chaos Brotherhood Motorcycle Club.

Joseph A. Foran High School, Class of 2003

**The photo was contributed by CTHM (Connecticut Trees of Honor Memorial).**

All pictures were contributed by Jordan’s father, Eric. The top left is inside an Iraqi home with a stuffed tiger and is the last picture of him alive. The top right is in a guard tower, and above is “his squad.”

Citation of the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal awarded posthumously with combat distinguishing device.

Corporal Jordan C. Pierson
United States Marine Corps Reserve

FOR

Heroic Achievement in the superior performance of his duties while serving as 2nd Team Leader, 4rd Squad, 2nd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) from March to August 2006 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Corporal Pierson participated in more than 100 combat patrols, 50 intelligence-driven raids and developed a technique to defeat a significant sniper threat within his company’s area of operation. While under direct enemy small arms fire on 12 April, he ran across a roof to engage the enemy and suppress the insurgent’s assault on his squad. On 24 May, though wounded in the arm and leg during an enemy grenade attack, he joined his squad leader in an assault on the enemy. Corporal Pierson was mortally wounded by an insurgent sniper during a platoon combat patrol in the Andalus District of Fallujah. Throughout the deployment, his leadership never wavered, and he ensured that his team was always prepared for the rigors of combat. Corporal Pierson’s initiative, perseverance, and total dedication to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

Signed on September 2, 2006, by Richard Zilmer, Major General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commanding General Multi-National Force – West. [citation provided by Jordan’s father, Eric; used with permission]

From The Hartford Courant on August 27, 2006
By Hilda Muñoz and Tina A. Brown | Courant Staff Writers

MARINE FROM STATE FATALLY SHOT IN IRAQ

A U.S. Marine corporal from Milford died from hostile gunfire Friday while on foot patrol in Fallujah, the U.S. Defense Department said Saturday. Corporal Jordan C. Pierson, 21, was shot once through the shoulder and died at 12:12 p.m. Iraqi time, according to Lieutenant Colonel Gerald Larghe, commander of the U.S. Marine Center in Plainville, where Pierson’s company — Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines — is based. He became the third Marine with ties to the company to be killed in action since the unit was deployed in March. Pierson joined the U.S. Marine Corps in December 2003. He was wounded in the arms and legs by shrapnel from an insurgent grenade in May. He was treated at Camp Fallujah and awarded the Purple Heart. A full-time student at the University of Connecticut in Storrs, Pierson postponed his studies to go to Iraq, military Marine officials said. The unit is scheduled to return to Connecticut in October. Milford Mayor James Richetelli Jr. visited Pierson’s family Saturday. “I expressed the condolences from the city of Milford,” he said. “Once the time comes, this city will remember him in a big way. We are known as a small city with a big heart.” For now, Richetelli said, the family asks for privacy. “The family is in shock and is trying to process this,” he said. Pierson’s profile on MySpace.com mentioned the Marine Corps more than once. He said he thought of his staff sergeant as a “hero,” and he also wrote “Marines 4 Life” at the top of his page. Pierson, a 2003 graduate of Joseph A. Foran High School in Milford, was also a fan of Elton John, Britney Spears, and Hilary Duff, according to the profile. He had an obvious sense of humor and a personality. “I think I’m cooler than you,” Pierson wrote. “I’d like to meet cute girls.” Flags were lowered to half-staff in Milford and at the state Capitol in Pierson’s honor. A tree in front of Milford City Hall that was lit to honor men and women in service the day the Iraq war started in March 2003 will be darkened until after Pierson’s funeral, Richetelli said. Pierson is the only U.S. serviceman from Milford killed in the war, he said. He is survived by his father, Eric C. Pierson; his mother, Beverley A. Pierson; and his 11-year-old brother, Ethan. Marine Captain Brian S. Letendre, who lived in New Britain while serving as the Charlie Company’s inspector-instructor in Plainville, died in combat in Iraq in May. Earlier this month, Lance Corporal Kurt E. Dechen of Springfield, Vermont, was shot and killed while on foot patrol. He died on his 24th birthday.

From The Day (New London, CT) on August 29, 2006
By Kyn Tolson | Day Staff Writer

PARENTS OF MARINE KILLED IN IRAQ PROUD THAT SON ‘GAVE OF HIMSELF’

MILFORD — Corporal Jordan Pierson had already ordered the Purple Heart Medal he had earned and planned to wear for the Marine Corps formal ball in November. He’d also told his parents he was going to go skydiving when he got back home. And he’d started thinking about the courses he’d take when he returned to the Storrs campus of the University of Connecticut to get his degree in business. But all these plans and dreams came to an end Friday when the 21-year-old Marine reservist was fatally shot while on foot patrol in Fallujah, Iraq. Governor M. Jodi Rell asked over the weekend that flags in Connecticut be flown at half-staff in honor of Pierson, who was one of about 200 men serving with Plainville-based Charlie Company in Fallujah. Living in a heavily fortified compound in the city’s downtown, the Marines, along with others in their infantry battalion, have been in Iraq since March and expect to be back in the United States by late October. Charlie Company is part of the 1st Battalion, 25th Marines, which has its headquarters in Massachusetts. On Monday afternoon, Pierson’s mother, Beverley, said her son’s death was his ultimate selfless gift, one that should stir others to ponder how they might give of themselves. Pierson joined the Marine Reserves in late 2003 after graduating from Foran High School in Milford, where he lived with his parents and 11-year-old brother. Serving in Iraq meant deferring his studies at UConn, said his father, Eric, but he already had decided on a major and was thinking about a minor in psychology. The Piersons spoke from the back porch of their home in Milford to a gathering of about a dozen media members. “Jordan had a tenacity for life,” Beverley Pierson said, following comments from her husband at the pre-arranged press conference. “He lived it with such excitement and put his whole being into it. What makes a great man is when he decides not to listen to the limits of others but to believe in the possibilities of life. … “If you learn anything from Jordan’s example, you will have learned that he gave of himself. How will you give of yourself? … How will you leave here today and make your mark? Will you volunteer for a soup kitchen? Will you make a plan to do something for somebody other than yourself?” Pierson’s body has not yet arrived in the United States. Memorial and funeral services are not yet scheduled, but he will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. A service of remembrance will be held at the Calvary Evangelical Free Church in Trumbull. Pierson had been awarded two Purple Hearts — medals awarded for wounds received in enemy combat. The latest incident occurred in late May when he was wounded while on patrol by shrapnel from a grenade that went into both arms and a leg. He was treated by American military medical personnel in Fallujah and soon returned to duty with Charlie Company. The infantrymen have a grueling routine of patrols in Fallujah, which they do either on foot or in Humvees. Their missions vary; sometimes, they patrol to survey the city, and sometimes, they are headed out to capture suspected insurgents. They also go out with the Iraqi army and often have humanitarian patrols when the goal might be to deliver medical goods or toys and candy to children. In summer temperatures that can hit 130 degrees or higher, they might patrol two or three times in a 12-hour period, always armed at least with M-16 rifles and wearing helmets, flak jackets, and other protective gear. With no days off in their schedule, they also stand guard duty around their compound. Now more than two-thirds through a seven-month assignment, Charlie Company has lost three of its men by sniper fire. One of those Marines was serving elsewhere at the time. Four others in the 1/25th have been killed in Fallujah. Pierson’s parents described their son as an adventurous spirit and “risk-taker” who showed an interest in the military, world affairs, and history by the age of 10. His father said, “We also acknowledge the United States Marine Corps, which Jordan loved, honored, and gave his life serving.” After both parents read brief statements, they answered questions from the press but were forewarned that they would not comment about the war or politics. Eric Pierson said his son was able to call home about once a week, and only during the last conversation had he started to talk about plans he was making for his return. During most of his earlier telephone conversations from Fallujah, Beverley Pierson said, her son focused on the duty at hand. But with only 60 days left in Iraq, she added, he was turning toward the future. “It was a very serious mission” in Fallujah, she said. “A very draining mission … dangerous. … And he was putting his all into it.” Facing three television cameras, reporters, and photographers who gathered on the lawn of their backyard, the Piersons stood on their porch, accompanied by the mayor of Milford, a Marine lieutenant colonel, pastors from the Trumbull Calvary Church, and others. Their gray-shingled, single-story home sits on a hill, close to others in a neighborhood of modest houses and with a view of Long Island Sound less than four blocks away. Eric Pierson’s brother, Michael, read from a message written by Charlie Company’s top non-commissioned officer, First Sergeant Ben Grainger: “We have lost a great Marine to the rigors of combat in Iraq, Corporal Jordan Pierson. Corporal Pierson had been a bright spot in his platoon. … Even when the gloom of combat reached deep in a man’s soul, Corporal Pierson could bring the Marine back to a sense of purpose, a sense of why we were here and that we were making a difference. “Corporal Pierson was destined not to only be a Marine, but a leader among Marines. … (They) are saddened and angered as they deal with the loss that they know has not only hurt them but his family back home. Marines are here to protect the American family, and Corporal Pierson was one who strongly believed in that. … He fostered such a positive spirit that it was contagious to all, even to an old first sergeant. … “We miss you, Jordan. Semper Fi.”

From Patch.com
By Denise Buffa | Patch Staff

REMEMBER THOSE WHO MADE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE

It’s been four years since Corporal Jordan Pierson, a 21-year-old Milford resident, gave his life for his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

But the U.S. Marine who made the ultimate sacrifice still lives on in his family’s home — in the photographs, the quilts, the military medals, and the minds of his father, his mother, and younger brother.

“We walk down the street and say, ‘Wow, it’s Veterans Day,’ ” Jordan’s father, Eric Pierson, 50, said. “That day has been paid for with people’s lives and people’s blood. It’s something we all need to take pause on.”

Jordan’s brother, Ethan Pierson, 16, said he’ll be going about his regular business on Veterans Day but filled with pride.

“It’s always like, that day is for my brother…” the teen said. “I’m sure my brother wouldn’t want us crying…”

At every turn in the Pierson’s Woodmont home, the war hero is present. A large photograph of Jordan in his Marine Dress Blues hangs high on a wall in the living room as if he’s watching over the whole family. There are three comfort quilts- gifts after Pierson’s tragic death in 2006- displayed in the living room and the late Marine’s old bedroom. Jordan’s photo is on the refrigerator, held there by a magnet that reads, “Jordan.”

His mother, Beverly Pierson, 54, insists it is not a shrine- and her son was no angel. Frankly, she says, Jordan was a difficult child who other grownups refused to babysit. He got so hard to handle that his parents had to convert the garage into separate quarters for him.

“He was insane,” Beverly Pierson said.

“If you’re going to survive as a soldier in battle, that’s what you need to be,” Jordan’s father said.

But Jordan was also brilliant — and determined. The Piersons recall their son studying military moves as a 10-year-old boy playing Half-Life, a first-person shooter video game. It was then that he took up Tae Kwon Do.

And Jordan grew into a leader, keeping his friends on the straight and narrow. He offered to be the designated driver when he and his friends went out. He encouraged two aimless buddies to join the military.

“My son was the glue,” Beverly Pierson said.

And Jordan was determined.

After the World Trade Center Attack, he was intent on joining the military at age 17. However, that would’ve required at least one parent’s signature because he was underage.

His parents weren’t signing on. It wasn’t because they didn’t support Jordan’s dream. It was because they didn’t want his blood on their hands, as his mother put it, if anything happened to him.

“Could you imagine how I’d feel today if I signed that paper?” said Beverly Pierson, who wears a dog-tag necklace with an etching of her son’s face on one side and an inscription on the other that reads: “My hero, Jordan, 8/25/2006, Iraq, Yo Momma.”

At his 18th birthday party, the Marines showed up with a cup — to take Jordan’s urine sample, his parents recall with smiles.

The Foran High School graduate passed the drug test, and before his parents knew it, their son had learned Spanish, German, and Arabic — and gone off to Iraq.

Jordan used his knowledge of the language to befriend the Iraqis, even trying to dissuade children from joining the insurgency.

“He was always thinking of new ways to defeat the enemy,” Beverly Pierson said.

Jordan had a brush with death in May 2006, when a grenade sent shrapnel through his body. He survived — and kept up the fight.

But three months later, he wasn’t as fortunate. Jordan was struck in the shoulder by small arms fire while on foot patrol in the Al Anbar province. It claimed his life.

“Everybody has a day to die,” Beverly Pierson said. “God has a day he’s going to call you home.”

Ethan Pierson — who’s suffered grand mal seizures since his brother’s death, including one at Arlington National Cemetery, where Jordan is buries — has poured his grief into poetry.

“Beloved bro, amongst the K.I.A.

But to me, you’re still alive and well

Our relationship tightly wound, always

The love we had anybody could tell,” one poem begins.

Beverly and Eric Pierson smile comfortably when they talk about Jordan, who was awarded two Purple Hearts and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

After his death, they learned about the type of man Jordan had become.

He allowed his fellow Marines to relax at night while he prepared their equipment for the next day. He stayed up to comfort an older, injured Marine who cried out for him at night. And he led his troops into raids with a blue light on the back of his helmet so they could follow him in the dark — even though it put him at risk.

In a letter to the family after Jordan’s death, Lance Corporal Jason Cooling wrote, “Your son was a leader to me right from the start.”

And the two became fast friends. On post in Fallujah, Jordan tried to convince Cooling to get another street bike when he returned home to the United States. But Cooling said he wouldn’t because they were way too dangerous.

“Now, here we were, 2 kids, who two years ago were in high school, sitting on post in one of the most dangerous cities in the world, talking about how when we get home our toys were going to be too dangerous,” Cooling wrote.

“We had to laugh at the irony.”

In the end, Jordan’s parents realize all their words of wisdom didn’t go unnoticed by their defiant boy.

“He did everything we said, you know,” Beverly Pierson said. “He just did all his good works in secret.”

Jordan completed more than 100 missions and 50 intelligence-driven raids. The family finds comfort in knowing he died doing what he lived for.

“It was something that he loved, something that he had a passion for. He found a home in the Marines,” Eric Pierson said.

“God took him out in glory,” Beverly Pierson said. “Jordan wanted to be remembered in a big way.”

From The Milford Mirror on November 8, 2015
By Jill Dion | Milford Mirror Editor

Veterans honored and a fallen hero remembered in Milford

Milford paid tribute to veterans during the annual Veterans Day Parade in downtown Milford Sunday, after which there was a special ceremony to remember Cpl. Jordan C. Pierson, who was killed in combat in 2006 in Iraq. He was 21 years old. Pierson’s name was added to the memorial flagpole on the Milford Green, which previously had 96 names etched in its base. Now, there are 97 names. Thomas Flowers, chairman of Milford’s Veterans, Ceremony, and Parade Commission, explained to a gathering of residents and officials Sunday afternoon that the memorial flagpole is dedicated to “the brave men who paid the ultimate sacrifice” serving in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Since 1990, the United States has been involved in a number of conflicts, now collectively called the Global War on Terrorism, he explained. In May, the words “Global War on Terrorism” were added to the base of the flagpole, and next to those words, the name of Milford’s Jordan Pierson. “And it’s about time,” Flowers said. Corporal Jordan Christopher Pierson, son of Eric and Beverley True Pierson, was born on June 22, 1985, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Greg Smith, a past commander of the VFW Post in Milford, told the crowd. Pierson attended Live Oaks School and then Foran High School, graduating in 2003. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserves that July. Upon graduating from Infantry Training Battalion in 2004, Pierson was named a rifleman. “In 2006, while a full-time student at the University of Connecticut, he was called to deploy to Iraq with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division out of Plainville,” Smith said. Pierson was wounded in May of 2006, and he received a Purple Heart for that injury. In July, he was promoted to corporal. He was killed in combat on Friday, August 25, 2006, in Fallujah, Al Anbar Province, Iraq. The young Milford man was posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. His other awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Combat Action Ribbon, and Purple Heart with Gold Star. Smith carried in his pocket a piece of paper that held the words a Marine wrote shortly after Pierson was killed. “Corporal Jordan Pierson had been a bright spot in his platoon, in a place that can take the softest of hearts into a void of darkness,” reads the message from First Sergeant Grainger. “Even when the gloom of combat reached deep in a man’s soul, Cpl. Pierson could bring the Marine back to a sense of purpose, a sense of why we were here, and that we were making a difference.” Jordan’s father, Eric, explained that his son had a chance to go home before that fateful day, but he gave that spot to someone else. So, on that day, instead of being safe at home, Jordan volunteered to lead a walking public relations patrol. “The last thing he did was turn around to see that the rest of the team was where they were supposed to be,” Eric said. “Jordan Pierson was a man,” his father said, indicating that all the names on the base of the flagpole are men who gave their lives for others. Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Graves attended Sunday’s service and spoke about Pierson, a man he said proved early on that he was a leader. “On the day he was fallen,” Graves said to Eric and Beverley Pierson during Sunday’s ceremony, “he was leading from the front — so you should be very proud of your son.” Pierson was honored Sunday following the city’s annual Veterans Day Parade, which included high school bands, Milford civic groups, veterans, politicians, and more. Grand Marshal and keynote speaker Harold G. Murray Jr., a U.S. Naval Veteran who served from 1943 to 1946 — and a two-time commander for Post 196 in Milford — read a poem about the dash, that line between a person’s birthdate and death date on their tombstone. “For it matters not how much we own, the cars…the house…the cash. What matters is how we live and love and how we spend our dash,” goes the poem by Linda Ellis.

Testimonial about Jordan Pierson

To the people who knew Jordan Pierson best, I can only offer my sympathy for your loss. I knew him for only a short time, while he was a student living in Colt Hall. He was quiet and humble, unassuming about people, and genuinely kind. Jordan is the friend that everybody has that is never fully appreciated for being the person they are. His qualities are rare. He never sought to stand out; he just quietly conducted his business and lived his life as he wanted. Jordan wanted to be a United States Marine but was never defined as a Marine. He preferred to be a good guy, a student, the same as anybody else who walks around this campus with the best of intent. Reflecting back on conversations with him about the Corps, he didn’t believe in the John Wayne Hollywood image of a Marine or pressure himself to uphold it. He saw something important to him and made it happen. He was a good man who embodied what, as a society, we want our military to stand for.

He passionately but quietly exuberated the meaning of honor, courage, and commitment. He did not talk about what that meant to him or should mean, he just lived as best he could. He treated people with respect and asked for nothing in return. He should not be remembered for the way he sacrificed his life but for showing the rest of us how to live ours. When he found out that his semester would be cut short and he would deploy to Iraq, he never openly complained. He would mention that he would miss leaving school and that he wished he didn’t have to go away from UConn, but never did I hear him mention Iraq positively or negatively. To him, it was a job, and he would do his duty and complete his studies later. The news certainly affected him, and he became less and less Jordan from down the hall and more Corporal Pierson, USMC. His priorities went away from classes and to his brothers-in-arms.

Everybody has fear, but I can’t imagine Jordan ever praying for a reprieve from serving, just for God to grant him the strength to not allow fear to prevent him from doing his job. From all accounts, it never did. The Marines he served with have since sung his praises as an exemplary Marine. It is this willingness to act despite the fear that makes him what he ever wanted to be known as somebody truly heroic. After being wounded, he maintained a sense of humor stronger than his anxiety that benefited those who cared for him probably more than himself. It certainly benefited the Marines serving with him who have written the positive influence Jordan had on them.

To Jordan’s close friends and family, again, I can’t express my condolences strong enough for your loss. In the few months I knew him, he had a tremendously positive influence on me, and I am confident in saying also on others who had the privilege to know him as well. The loss of Jordan Pierson can never be fully appreciated. We have lost more than a Marine, a student, a friend, but the potential of a great man. To those who didn’t get to meet Jordan Pierson, it is my belief that the best way to honor him is to honor how he lived his life by acting with quiet professionalism, an unassuming and genuine belief in the people we meet, and faith in the goodness of humanity. Jordan exemplified strength in character. It is with fond memory I say, Semper Fir Marine. May we not define you as a Marine but define the Marines as having the strength of character that you possessed. Jordan, you will be missed and remembered.

— Greg Woods.

Memorialized on the Milford Green, 84 South Broad Street, Milford, Connecticut.

Memorialized with a park at 37 Davenport Avenue, Milford, Connecticut. The park is at the end of the street he grew up on.

Memorial flagpole at Foran High School, 80 Foran Road, Milford, Connecticut.

Corporal Pierson is buried in Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington, Virginia; Section 60, Site 8241.

LANCE CORPORAL LAWRENCE ROBERT PHILIPPON; MARINE CORPS

DOB/DOD: March 20, 1983 (Fort Bragg, NC) – May 8, 2005; 22 years old
MARITAL STATUS: Engaged to be married to Olivia Lawrence (1986-).
LOCAL ADDRESS: Sedgwick Road; West Hartford
ENLISTMENT: May 19, 2003
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY: 0311; Rifleman
UNIT: H Company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines (Regimental Combat Team 2), 2nd Marine Division; Camp Lejeune, North Carolina

FAMILY: Born to Raymond A. [U.S. Army veteran; ’79-‘83] (1961-) and Leesa M. Philippon (1961-). One sister, Emilee R. (1987-). One brother, Bryan T. (1989-).

DECORATIONS: Awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Presidential Unit Citation, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with device, Global War on Terrorism Medal (Expeditionary), Global War on Terrorism (Service), Navy/Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Expert Rifleman Badge.

CIRCUMSTANCES: Lance Corporal Philippon was killed by enemy small-arms fire while conducting combat operations in the vicinity of Qa’im, Iraq.

OTHER: At one point in his career, Lance Corporal Philippon was assigned to the 8th & I Marine Barracks Color Guard in Washington, D.C. The “8th & I” is the oldest active post in the Marine Corps. It was founded by President Thomas Jefferson and Lieutenant Colonel William Ward Burrows, the second commandant of the Marine Corps, in 1801. Lance Corporal Philippon served many funerals in Arlington National Cemetery. He also carried the Marine Corps flag at former President Ronald Reagan’s funeral procession in Washington.

Conard High School, Class of 2001. Honorable mention All-State hockey goalie.

Memorialized with a monument in front of Conard High School, West Hartford. One of three people in this book who graduated from Conard High School. The others are McMahon & Paliwoda.

The photo, two above, was contributed by CTHM (Connecticut Trees of Honor Memorial).
Photo, above, from TogetherWeServed.com.

From The Hartford Courant on May 11, 2005
By Jesse Leavenworth | Courant Staff Writer

MARINE KILLED IN IRAQ OFFENSIVE

Lance Corporal Lawrence R. Philippon, a 22-year-old West Hartford man who carried the Marine Corps flag at President Reagan’s funeral, died fighting insurgents in western Iraq as part of a major offensive along the Syrian border, military officials said Tuesday. Philippon, a rifleman with the 2nd Marine Division, was killed by small arms fire Sunday during combat in the Al Anbar province, division spokesman Lieutenant Barry Edwards said Tuesday. The 2nd Division launched an assault late Saturday aimed at flushing out insurgents who have made the region near the Syrian border a safe haven for followers of militant leader Abu Musab al-Zaryawh. As many as 100 militants have been killed since Operation Matador, one of the largest American offensives in Iraq in six months, began in Qa’im, 200 miles west of Baghdad. At least three U.S. Marines have been killed in the ongoing offensive, which involves more than 1,000 Marines, sailors, and soldiers backed by helicopter gunships and fighter jets. News reports say one of the Marines was killed by an insurgent who was hiding in a basement and fired through a floor grate as the Marine entered a house. Edwards said he did not know if that Marine was Philippon. Raymond Philippon, Lawrence’s father, said representatives of the Marine Corps who came to his West Hartford home Tuesday could not provide him any details about his son’s death. The Marines gave his wife, Leesa, a Gold Star to honor her loss. His son, a Conard High School graduate, joined the Marine Corps two years ago and was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment in January, Edwards said. Philippon had asked for duty in Iraq after being chosen while in basic training for the Marine Corps Color Guard in Washington, D.C. Family members say Philippon carried the Marine Corps flag at the state funeral for President Reagan last June. Philippon’s official duties at the time of his death, Edwards said, were “protecting the Syrian border and conducting security operations to prevent insurgents from crossing the border and setting up strongholds in Iraqi cities.”

From The Hartford Courant on May 31, 2005
By Regine LaBossiere | Courant Staff Writer

FALLEN HERO’S FATHER THANKS TOWN

WEST HARTFORD — The father of a Conard High alumnus killed May 8 in Iraq said Monday that the letters, cards, and flowers that family members had received helped them deal with their loss. Raymond Philippon, speaking at a service outside the town hall after the Memorial Day parade, told listeners that the kindness of both friends and strangers made it possible for his family to emotionally survive the combat death of Lance Corporal Lawrence R. Philippon, 22. The Marine rifleman, a 2001 Conard graduate, died fighting in western Iraq. He was the third person from West Hartford to be killed in Afghanistan or Iraq. Raymond Philippon — his wife, Leesa, sitting behind him with town officials — said that the couple “would never make it through” their sadness without the support of their town. He thanked officials for hanging national, state, and U.S. Marine Corps flags along a several-blocks-long stretch of Sedgwick Road, where the family lives. Philippon’s brief speech received a standing ovation from the town, state, and army officials seated behind him. He then helped the parade marshal, Army Major Donald Slater, place a wreath on the veterans’ memorial. Babies cried when the three-gun salute pierced the silence. Afterward, Philippon said it was apt to commemorate Memorial Day just weeks after his son’s death. “People told us they were here for Larry,” Philippon said. “It’s almost like it was meant to be. It’s all happened at the same time, and it’s been a whirlwind.” West Hartford shares with Waterbury the highest number of fatalities in Iraq or Afghanistan of any state municipality. From West Hartford, U.S. Army Lieutenant Michael J. McMahon, 41, died in Afghanistan in December, and Army Captain Eric Thomas Paliwoda died in Iraq in January 2004. With a rat-a-tat-tat here of drums and the brassy notes of horns there, local bands, youth leagues, and veterans marched down Farmington Avenue and South Main Street. The streets were lined with hundreds of onlookers well before the parade began shortly after 10 a.m. and looked even more crowded an hour later. Some onlookers gather at the parade every year, looking for friends they hadn’t seen in a while. Kathy Keany, the mother of eight who raised her children in West Hartford, was joined by her husband and several of her grown children and grandchildren. “We always come back for the parade,” said Keany, 62, who moved to Farmington last year. And the nice weather also was a draw. “This is beautiful, just the way it is right now.” Her daughter, Mary McCaffrey, 29, of West Hartford, said, “I like to run into people from high school. I probably just saw two dozen of them.” Friends Colleen Karoliszyn and Colin Dinnie, both 19, also were continuing the tradition. “We’ve been doing it for so long,” said Karoliszyn of her family members, who watch the parade every year. The Brown University student then pointed to her friend Dinnie and said, “And we met up. We haven’t seen each other in a couple of months.” Dinnie, who was home from the Berklee College of Music in Boston, was excited to see his old teachers marching with their students. “I do this every year,” Dinnie said, then excitedly pointed to those marching from his alma mater, Wolcott Elementary. “That’s my old elementary school!”

From The Harford Courant on August 16, 2006
By Jeff Jacobs

CUP’S VISIT HONORS SON’S MEMORY

WEST HARTFORD – Ray Philippon looked at the long line of folks pushing out the front door and snaking around Veterans Memorial Skating Rink. His eyes fixed on the red goalie mask sitting on the table at the head of the line, a wad of donations building nearby from the mask’s chin toward its forehead. “That’s Larry’s battle gear,” Philippon said. He let out a small laugh. If anyone knows the difference between battle and athletic gear, it is a former Army man and the dad of a fallen Marine. He said it for effect. He wanted people to know how much his son loved hockey and respected the game. Leesa Philippon, her son’s gold star pinned to her shirt, said she debated whether to bring along the mask Tuesday, but in the end, she decided it was a part of Lance Corporal Lawrence R. Philippon they will forever be able to hold onto. “I’m glad we brought it,” she decided. The Stanley Cup has been to so many places and has been used for so many things. The Ottawa Silver Seven tried to drop-kick it across the Rideau Canal. Clark Gillies fed his dog from it. The Edmonton Oilers put it on stage with an exotic dancer, and so did the Rangers — the common G-string being Mark Messier. The Cup was found at the bottom of Mario Lemieux’s pool. Ed Olczyk fed Kentucky Derby winner Go for Gin from it. Stefan Lefebvre had his son baptized in it. This summer, Matt Cullen brought it to Fargo, North Dakota, for the Cup to watch its first Wiffle Ball game. On this day, when the Stanley Cup found its way within 10 feet of Larry Philippon’s Conard High goalie mask for a most noble task, it endured what Carolina Hurricanes equipment manager Bob Gorman called “a little bit of a situation.” Walt Neubrand of the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Cup’s guardian, boarded a Northwest flight in Detroit, one stop in Indianapolis, scheduled to arrive at Bradley Airport at 10:20 a.m. Neubrand and his luggage would arrive an hour late. That wasn’t the problem. The problem was that the Stanley Cup was nowhere to be found. “I was starting to get worried,” Neubrand said. The Cup, it turned out, had mistakenly been placed on a later flight direct from Detroit to Bradley. “We finally got our hands on it at 12:30 and drove as fast as we could to get here [for an event scheduled for noon],” Gorman said. Pressing question, Bob: Do the airlines use white gloves to hand-deliver the Cup? Or does it come out on the carousel like Aunt Ethel’s luggage from Lauderdale? “Carousel,” Gorman said. “It only has a little Hockey Hall of Fame sticker. Nothing blaring, ‘This is the Stanley Cup.’” Gorman once worked with Ray Philippon at this rink. He remembers Larry, age 4 or 5, running around with his dad. They’re from the same neighborhood. They attended the same high school. “Years ago, I thought if we ever won the Cup, I’d like to do something to honor veterans of the armed forces,” said Gorman, who got his start with the Whalers before they moved to Carolina in 1997. “I just didn’t know what I’d do.” He would come to know exactly what to do. It was Mother’s Day of 2005 — their 24th wedding anniversary — when Ray and Leesa Philippon got the news from Brian Letendre that their son, 22, had been killed by small arms fire in Western Iraq, fighting insurgents in the Al Anbar province near the Syrian border. In a cruel twist, Letendre would later be killed in Iraq. “For a year, Leesa tried to think why it happened on that day,” Philippon said. “I think she had an epiphany. Being on that day, so many more people could relate. Wow, on Mother’s Day. Wow, on your anniversary. Wow, combined. We have come to believe that this is Larry’s way, God’s way, of getting the word out. Our troops are out there protecting our country. “I truly believe if we pulled out right now, that Larry’s death and all those other deaths of our troops would be [for naught]. It would be reminiscent of Vietnam and Korea. There’s a lot of good going on in Iraq that a lot of people aren’t aware of. Schools are being built for girls and boys. We won’t see the fruits for 20 years until that generation moves up. Those are the ones who will not be terrorists, jihadists.” The Philippons know many Americans do not share their view. They choose to believe the dissenters lack an understanding. “I believe in freedom for all, not just America,” Leesa said. “[Letendre] brought the news to our door. Every time look at my front door, it’s there. It hurts deeply. I will never forget that. I’m also so proud of Larry. There are children in Iraq and Afghanistan who have a future they never would have had.” Larry was a proud warrior. He carried the Marine Corps flag in Ronald Reagan’s funeral procession and used to joke that it took two Army personnel to produce a Marine. And when the Philippon family started a scholarship in Larry’s name, Gorman knew this would be how he would use his day with the Stanley Cup. “I’m happy to do it,” Gorman said. “Actually, I’m honored.” The scholarship goes to a male and female student at Conard recommended by their coaches, preferably — but not necessarily — in hockey or lacrosse. Larry played both and was selected Courant All-State honorable mention in 2001 after leading the Conard hockey team to the state semifinals as a senior. To win, a student must write an essay on what it means to be an American and acknowledge having stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance each day. “The scholarship,” Ray said, “is character-based.” The Stanley Cup is a powerful draw. There are a thousand stories engraved on the most unique trophy in sports. Stories like “One-Eyed” Frank McGee scoring 14 goals in a Stanley Cup game before he was killed at the Battle of the Somme in World War I. With a small donation to have a photo taken with it, the Stanley Cup did its job Tuesday. About $3,300 was raised. Ray and Leesa find a little sign in this. Larry wore hockey uniform number 33. And maybe there’s more, too. Ray and Leesa met in the Army, and Larry was born at Fort Bragg in North Carolina before coming to Connecticut — the opposite trip of the hockey franchise that brought the Cup here Tuesday. “I guess it makes the story full circle,” Ray said. Today, equipment manager Skip Cunningham starts a new story. He has been with the franchise since its inception, complete with all the moves. He will bring the Cup to the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center and take it to a luncheon in Springfield. On Thursday morning, there is another photo session at South Windsor Arena for the benefit of the South Windsor and ECHO youth associations. That’s after he brings it to Fenway Park tonight. Cunningham wants to bring the Stanley Cup up to the Monster seats. But that’s another story.

From FallenHeroesMemorial.com

“To the family of LCpl Philippon,

I served with your son in Washington, D.C., and can honestly say he was one of the greatest Marines I have had the pleasure of working with. I truly wish it had been me that day! Thank you for having a son that showed us all what being a Marine is all about.”

— Sergeant Shawn Ballard

“Larry was my beloved nephew. He was a fine young man. It’s true he believed in God, Family & his country. He always felt a certain sense of duty to be wherever he was needed most. As a young boy, he loved to run, laugh, and play. I remember seeing him for the first time when he was about 6 or 7 in Philadelphia as we all were there for a small family reunion with his Uncle Bob, a retired Marine, and me and my family. I remember talking with Larry by phone before he joined the Marines, and he was so proud he was going to be a Marine and especially to be serving his country. Seemed like his joining the Marines brought our family closer together. Everyone wanted to call and wish him well. He was so happy. For all the young men and women, the fathers, mothers, uncles & aunts serving in Iraq …we hold you up in our prayers and wish you Godspeed. For you are our greatest heroes, and for those gone, they will never be forgotten as we keep them close in our hearts forever. I personally thank all of you for such great support of my sister Leesa & her family, Ray, Emilee & Bryan. It means so much to them and to me, too. There aren’t words enough to say how any of us feel, but we know that someday we’ll all be together in that great place called heaven, and perhaps we’ll meet all of you there, too. Thank You & God Bless.”

— Viktoria & Gary Affron of Lake City, Florida

Memorialized on a segment of Route 4 East from State Route 508 in Farmington, east to the intersection of Boulevard in West Hartford.

Memorialized on the Connecticut Veterans Memorial, Farmington Avenue and North Main Street, West Hartford, Connecticut

Lance Corporal Philippon is buried in Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington, Virginia; Section 60, Site 8181.

STAFF SERGEANT JOSEPH EDGAR PHANEUF, II; ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

DOB/DOD: December 7, 1968 (Putnam, CT) – December 15, 2006; 38 years old
MARITAL STATUS: Married Michele L. Kozey (1969-)
CHILDREN: One son, Ryan (1991-). Two daughters, Danielle (1995-) and Jordan (1997-).
LOCAL ADDRESS: Kozey Road, Eastford
ENLISTMENT: 1992
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY: 25U; Signal Support Systems Specialist
UNIT: Headquarters & Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Brigade; New Haven, Connecticut

FAMILY: Born to Peter A. [USMC and Vietnam veteran] (1940-2018) and Barbara Ortega Phaneuf (1943-). Three brothers, Dennis (1969-), Tony (1974-), and Rob (1976-). Three sisters, Tiffany Phaneuf Sumeersarnauth (1969-), Holly Phaneuf Grube (1970-), and Veronica Mobley (1976-).

DECORATIONS: Awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal with device, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 2 devices, Global War on Terrorism Medal (Expeditionary), Global War on Terrorism Medal (Service), Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “2” device, Army NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon with “2 device”, Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon, NATO ISAF (International Security Assistance Force) Medal – Afghanistan, Combat Action badge, Driver-W badge, Rifle Marksman Badge, Meritorious Unit Commendation with device, Army Signal Corps Regimental Cross, Connecticut Veterans Wartime Service Medal, and the Connecticut Mobilization Service Ribbon.

CIRCUMSTANCES: Staff Sergeant Phaneuf was killed when the armored vehicle he was in was struck by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Mehtar Lam, Afghanistan.

OTHER: From sister Holly Grube, “Joe was extremely intelligent, and in high school, he made a bet with one of his teachers. The loser of a game of Trivial Pursuit had to serve the winner lunch. Guess who won!?”

Putnam High School, Class of 1987

**Photo taken in the 1990s of all the siblings. From left to right, Tony, Tiffany, Holly, Rob, Joe, and Dennis. Photo contributed by sister Holly Grube.**

**Postcard sent to his sister Holly’s children.**

**Hat photos contributed by sister, Holly Grube. “Joe sent my twins, Cameron and Dylan, each this hat. Note the rank. He had to give them a rank lower than his. Too funny.”**

**Photo contributed by sister Holly Grube. “Joe sent my daughter, Madelyn, this teddy bear. She keeps it safe, always.”**

**Photo contributed by sister Holly Grube. “When Joe was working at a gas station in his late teens** **pumping gas into cars for customers, he had this business card made. Classic!”**.

From The Day (New London, CT) on December 19, 2006

STATE SOLDIER KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN
Eastford Resident’s Vehicle Was Hit By A Roadside Bomb

HARTFORD (AP) – A Connecticut soldier has been killed in Afghanistan by a roadside explosive, military officials confirmed Monday. Staff Sergeant Joseph E. Phaneuf Jr., 38, of Eastford, died Friday when his armored vehicle struck a roadside bomb, officials said. Phaneuf’s wife, Michele, and other family members were notified Saturday. “It is very difficult to lose another great soldier who answered the call to duty,” said Major General Thaddeus J. Martin, the adjutant general and commander of the Connecticut National Guard. Phaneuf was a member of the New Haven-based First Battalion 102nd Infantry and was one of three soldiers in the vehicle when the explosion occurred. He is the seventh Connecticut resident to die this year in fighting in Afghanistan or Iraq and the 36th since fighting began in 2002. Governor M. Jodi Rell on Monday ordered U.S. and state flags lowered to half-staff until Phaneuf’s burial, which has not yet been scheduled. “Joseph Phaneuf was a volunteer citizen-soldier who served his state and country in the truest sense,” Rell said. “His example of service and sacrifice is as inspirational as his death is tragic.” Michelle Phaneuf said her husband had served in the military in the 1990s and reenlisted after the 2001 terrorist attacks. He served in Iraq and volunteered for the Afghanistan-bound unit because he felt strongly about the need to serve overseas again, she said. “He was a soldier, a patriot through and through,” she said. “He felt he was needed to go over there and do what he could do,” she said. Michele Phaneuf said she last spoke with her husband by telephone on Wednesday. They have three children. “We’re going to have Christmas,” she said. “That’s what he would have wanted, and that’s what we’re going to do.” Funeral and burial arrangements are pending, but Michele Phaneuf said her husband told her he wanted to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Phaneuf’s battalion was mobilized in January and left for Afghanistan in April. It is scheduled to return to Connecticut in Spring 2007. Currently, the Connecticut National Guard has 970 members deployed in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Germany in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

From The Day (New London, CT) December 28, 2006
By Megan Bard | Day Staff Writer

HE BELIEVED IN WHAT HE DID
300 Turn Out In Norwich To Honor State Soldier Killed In Afghanistan

NORWICH — As a bitter gust of wind lifted the corners of the American flag that hugged Staff Sergeant Joseph E. Phaneuf II’s casket, his wife raised her hand and blew him a kiss. It was a simple, loving gesture by Michele Phaneuf before she took hold of her two daughters’ hands, nodded to her son, and walked to a waiting black limousine. “He had a great spirit … he believed in what he did,” said Caren Falzarano, smiling as she remembered her Putnam High School friend. Falzarano was one of more than 300 people who attended a Mass of Christian Burial service on Wednesday morning at the Cathedral of St. Patrick on Broadway to honor Phaneuf’s memory. The Connecticut National Guard soldier was killed on December 15 in Mehtar Lam, Afghanistan, from injuries he suffered when an explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations. Phaneuf, 38, was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment, based in New Haven. He served in the military in the 1990s and reenlisted after the 2001 terrorist attacks. He spent one year in Iraq with the Guard’s 118th Medical Battalion before joining the infantry unit in November 2005 and volunteering for duty in Afghanistan. He was scheduled to come home this spring. The Eastford resident will be buried Friday with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. On Wednesday, Phaneuf’s friends described him as a selfless man who cared deeply for his community, his family, and his country. They recalled his sense of humor, his argumentative nature, and his competitive drive. All three characteristics served him well as a father, a volunteer firefighter, and during intense Trivial Pursuit matches. “Joey was an athlete. He was driven and competitive,” said Shawn Griffin of Plainville, a high school friend. To Shay Gingras, an Eastford Elementary School student, Phaneuf was a hero. Melissa Duncan of Eastford said Phaneuf volunteered at the school and spoke to students about his military experience and tour in Iraq. The students were later asked to write about a hero. Shay wrote about Phaneuf. Duncan said Shay shared some of her essays during the eulogy on Wednesday. Brian Gingras, Shay’s father, who also spoke during the eulogy, said later that “Joe was a dear friend of ours and a true hero and patriot. All of the accolades he gets are well deserved.” Many of those accolades were shared during the homily given by Monsignor Robert L. Brown, the Chancellor of the Diocese of Norwich and principal celebrant of the Mass. On Wednesday evening, the Most Reverend Daniel A. Hart, bishop emeritus of Norwich, said that the service was solemn but that the scripture readings were intended to provide hope to look beyond the present circumstances to the happiness of God in heaven. Hart described Brown’s homily as very personal and one that encouraged all who attended to recall Christ’s resurrection. Hart said the monsignor spoke of Phaneuf’s devotion to his family, and yet his need to respond to the needs of the country, too. “The life of Joseph Phaneuf had been one that would be an example to all those who hear of it,” Hart said. Outside the church, dozens of people gathered along Broadway for nearly two hours in the biting wind to pay their respects. Members of the National Patriot Guard Riders, a group of motorcycle enthusiasts, and others lined Otis Street. The group had been invited to the cathedral by the Phaneuf family in the event that members of a Kansas-based church group picketed the service. “It’s about honor and respect. That’s it,” said RJ Quinn, representative of the Patriot Guard Riders. Members of the Westboro Baptist Church did not attend, however, as threatened on the group’s website. Fire departments and police officers also mingled in front of the church. The city’s and Taftville’s fire departments positioned ladder trucks to support a large American flag that was hanging over Broadway. The New London Firefighters Pipes and Drums formed a circle to the right of the cathedral’s steps. The group played “Going Home” as Phaneuf’s casket was walked up the steps that were lined by members of the state National Guard’s honor guard, primarily members of the 102nd Infantry. Their presence was in honor of Phaneuf’s service in the Eastford Volunteer Fire Department. A quiet chatter was silenced 75 minutes after the service began when the large wooden doors of the cathedral opened. Only the footsteps of the honor guard, again taking their positions along the steps, and the sound of the large American flag whipping in the wind could be heard. From behind the glass doors that shielded the sanctuary from the cold, a singer’s voice could be heard singing the National Anthem. Later, as the singer began singing “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” the casket, now draped in white, slowly made its way down the aisle. Just before the door’s threshold, the white fabric was removed, and the American flag was unfolded and gingerly draped over the casket before the casket was carried back down the steps to the waiting vehicle. After blowing her a kiss, Michele Phaneuf accepted condolences from state dignitaries, including Governor M. Jodi Rell, U.S. Representative – elect Joe Courtney, state Comptroller Nancy Wyman, and state Treasurer Denise L. Nappier. Then, the Phaneuf family got back in the long, black limousine and began the 37-mile journey back to Putnam, where a reception was held at the Albert J. Breault VFW Post 1523. Currently, the Connecticut National Guard has 970 soldiers and airmen deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Germany in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

From the Villager Newspaper. Contributed by Bill Pearsall, municipal historian for the town of Putnam.
By Vito J. Leo | Staff Writer

EASTFORD RESIDENTS MOURN LOSS OF STAFF SGT JOSEPH E. PHANEUF JR.

EASTFORD — Townspeople continue to agonize over the loss of an Eastford resident who was killed in Afghanistan while serving with the Connecticut National Guard. Staff Sergeant Joseph E. Phaneuf Jr. died on December 15 when the vehicle in which he was riding struck a roadside bomb. He lived in Eastford with his wife Michelle and their three children, Ryan, 18; Danielle J., and Jordan, 9.

The fallen hero was honored during a Mass of Christian Burial held at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Norwich on December 27, and his body will rest with other national heroes in Arlington National Cemetery, with burial scheduled for December 29. Staff Sergeant Phaneuf had served in Iraq in February 2004 with the Connecticut

National Guard’s 118th Medical Battalion, and then, after returning home from that deployment, he decided to go back to the Middle East, joining the Afghanistan-bound First Battalion 102nd Infantry Brigade in November 2005. He and two other members of that unit were riding together when the fateful explosion occurred.

His death was felt deeply in this town of fewer than 2,000 residents, even more so, coming as it did a little more than a week prior to Christmas. Many homes in Eastford- the epitome of Smalltown, USA — are flying flags in memory of the town’s local hero, and in some cases, homeowners have attached small flags to mailboxes.

In the center of town, Bowen’s Garage is flying flags attached to antennas of cars owned by the dealership. All the town-owned buildings, including the Town Hall, have signs bordered by black bunting, a traditional symbol of mourning. The town has been wonderful and very supportive of our family. People are doing just everything they can to help Michelle and her family, as well as being helpful to me and my family,” said Holly Grube, sister of Staff Sergeant Phaneuf and also an Eastford resident. “Joe was my older brother, and he was always my protector. I will always miss him,” she said.

From TogetherWeServed.com

My husband, Staff Sergeant Joseph E. Phaneuf II, was killed when the vehicle he was driving hit an IED. He was killed on December 15, 2006, in Mehtar Lam, Afghanistan. He was a member of the 1-102 Infantry Regiment out of New Haven, Connecticut. He had been in Afghanistan since April of 2006. Prior to deploying to Afghanistan, he was a member of the 118th Medical Battalion and had served a year in Iraq with them. After 9/11 happened, Joe felt a very strong need to do something for our country. He had previously been a member of the National Guard. He decided to reenlist. When he found out that the unit he was with would not be getting deployed, he volunteered to go over with the 118th. Joe’s Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) was in communications. He spent most of his time in Iraq working with computers. He came home feeling very dissatisfied. He did not feel he had done anything to help anyone while in Iraq. During the year he was home, he spent his time with our 3 kids, taking pictures, and golfing. All of the things he loved to do. I knew that he still needed to go out and do something else. With much thought and discussion, he volunteered to go to Afghanistan with the 1-102. Again, he would be doing commo work, but it was agreed he could also be a driver and do some traveling. Joe left in January of 2006. We were all so proud of him. Our son Ryan, age 15, and our daughters Danielle, age 11, and Jordan, age 9, understood that he was going back to help. Although they did say this was the last time he could go away. A sentiment shared by all. Joe came home in August for his R&R. It was so good to see him. We spent most of those two weeks just doing quiet family things. I am so happy to have had those two weeks. Joe took many, many pictures of the children and scenery in Afghanistan, and there are many pictures of Iraq as well. He spoke volumes through his photos. I will someday have his pictures made into books. We miss him terribly but are endlessly proud of him. Thank you.

— Michele Phaneuf; Eastford, CT

Joe, I remember our times at Fort Bragg. It was cold one night, and I took my sleeping bag and held it near the red hot heater and, of course, melted a part of it. You looked at me and said, “Keep the matches away from the old man. You even attached a fire extinguisher to my bunk. You were always the jokester, which was great. How many times did we share our cigarettes when either of us was out? I was always the butt of the “Old Man” Jokes, but I didn’t mind at all. As a matter of fact, I liked it, as you know. I did finally make it to Arlington in 2011 for a visit and also visited Bernard Corpuz, who is very close to you. Well, Joe, we did our jobs well. Now, Rest In Peace, my friend.

— First Sergeant Dave J. Carello

Memorialized at Camp Nett, 38 Smith Street, Niantic, Connecticut. The memorial brick with his name is the middle brick in the second row.

Memorialized on the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Monument, Long Wharf Drive, and Sargent Drive, New Haven, Connecticut.

Staff Sergeant Phaneuf is buried in Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington, Virginia; Section 60, Site 8512.

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS WILFREDO “JUNIOR” PEREZ, JR.; ARMY

DOB/DOD: December 19, 1978 (Brooklyn, NY) – July 26, 2003; 24 years old
MARITAL STATUS: Unmarried
LOCAL ADDRESS: Pine Hill Avenue; Norwalk
ENLISTMENT: April 10, 2002
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY: 11C10; Indirect Fire Infantryman
UNIT: Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 4th Infantry Division; Fort Hood, Texas

FAMILY: Born to Wilfredo Perez Sr. (1959-) and Ann M. Eccles Perez (-). Stepmother, Vicki Roos (1967-). Two sisters, Lisa M. (1975-) and Telia M. (1985-). One brother, Joseph (1988-). Two half-brothers, Roman and Michael.

DECORATIONS: Awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal (Expeditionary), Global War on Terrorism Medal (Service), Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Valorous Unit Award.

CIRCUMSTANCES: Wilfredo and two other soldiers died July 26, 2003, during a grenade attack as they were guarding a children’s hospital in Baqubah, Iraq. The other soldiers killed in the same incident are:

Army Sergeant Daniel Keith Methvin; Belton, Texas
Army Specialist Jonathan Paul Barnes; Anderson, Missouri

**Photo contributed by Wilfredo Perez, Sr.**

His family always called him “Junior,” and as a young boy, he was into everything and anything. Junior was selflessly devoted to his family. A kind-hearted young man, he helped take care of his great-aunt Dawn, who was wheelchair-bound, and regularly took his aunt Cathy, sick with cancer, to her doctor appointments. He also took his grandmother Herminia out shopping and to the casino. He was very close to and loved his sister, Lisa Marie, and would do anything for her. His last letter from Iraq arrived the day after the family learned that he’d lost his life in the line of duty on July 26, 2003. In that letter, written crouched in a Humvee, Junior, 24, told his stepbrother Joseph, 15, that he needed “to finish school” to be able to take care of himself and “be the man.” Junior loved New York City and called Queens his home. He lived half his life there and half in Connecticut, where he moved to live with his father and attend Nathan Hale Middle School and Norwalk High School. He loved clothes and shopping, not only buying complete outfits for himself but also buying things for others. He loved playing handball. He loved Six Flags and Action Park. As he got older, he loved downhill skiing, playing golf, riding his motorcycle, and working on his car. Junior was always involved. At 13, he marched with the Sea Cadets in the Desert Storm ticker-tape parade in New York City. At 16, he volunteered at the Special Olympics World Games in New Haven, Connecticut. He also walked in fundraisers for the American Diabetes Society and the Multiple Sclerosis Society. At 17, he was a member of Junior ROTC at Norwalk High. After September 11, 2001, at age 23, he enlisted. He was proud to wear the uniform of the U.S. Army and serve his country. The day before he shipped out to Fort Hood, Texas, he rode in the 2002 Connecticut United Ride to raise money for Fairfield County police and firefighters. Junior joined the army in April 2002 and headed to Fort Benning, Georgia, for basic training, after which he was transferred to Fort Hood, Texas, for more training. He left for the Middle East in the winter of 2002, eventually being stationed in Iraq. Junior is survived by his father, Wilfredo Perez Sr., stepmother Vicki Roos, and stepbrother Roman, all of Norwalk; and his mother, Ann Marie Eccles, sister Lisa Marie, stepsister Teila, and stepbrother Joseph, all of Queens. Wilfredo Perez Jr. was a leader. Strong, physically and mentally, handsome, and charismatic, he had a beautiful smile and loved making people laugh. If you knew him only briefly, you would never forget him. A college scholarship fund has been established at Norwalk High School and Brien McMahon High School in Junior’s name and honor.

From FallenHeroesMemorial.com

“My name is Sergeant Armstrong. I am the only one of the soldiers hit by the grenade to live. I want everyone to know that in serving with Wilfredo, I found a friend who will stay in my heart forever. One of the best soldiers to have had the honor to serve with. You will be missed, and I will let everyone know who you are.”

— Sergeant Robert P. Armstrong of HHC 1-67AR, Ft. Hood, Texas

From the Boston Globe on August 3, 2003

Private First Class Wilfredo Perez Jr. of Norwalk, Connecticut, an Army infantryman stationed in Iraq, was among three soldiers killed July 26 in a grenade attack on a hospital they were guarding 45 miles northeast of Baghdad. He was 24. His career in the military began in the Junior ROTC program at Norwalk High School. After years of moving between Norwalk and Queens, Mr. Perez dropped out of high school. Three years later, he returned to earn his GED, said his sister, Lisa Marie, of Queens, New York. He returned to the Norwalk schools last year to talk to students about overcoming mistakes. “He lived in two different worlds at certain times,” she said. Mr. Perez grew up in Queens, where his mother still lives. After his parents divorced, he moved to Connecticut to live with his father. Mr. Perez was considered a prankster by most of his family and friends. He once littered his mother’s bath with chicken seasonings, which made her smell like chicken for three days. After joining the Army about 18 months ago, Mr. Perez worked with his father as a remodeling contractor before beginning his training at Fort Benning [Fort Moore as of 2023], Georgia, his uncle, Tom Noonan of Stratford, Connecticut, told the Associated Press. He spent time with his mother and father last August after he finished his training. Mr. Perez was assigned to Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, based in Fort Hood [Fort Cavazos as of 2003], Texas. At first, he was eager to go to Iraq and saw the experience as exciting, but he recently told his family he wanted out of Iraq, his sister said. “They were not prepared for what the heat did to them mentally; he wrote about not having water and needing to laugh,” she added. Keeping in touch with his family through e-mail and occasional phone calls, news from Mr. Perez – called “Junior” by his family – was shared at family gatherings. Recently, his sisters, brother, and cousin all received letters with instructions from him on what they should do if he were to die overseas. In addition to his sister, Mr. Perez leaves his father, Wilfredo Sr.; his mother, Ann Marie; another sister, Telia Marie of Queens; and two brothers, Joseph of Queens and Roman of Norwalk. A funeral Mass will be said in St. Matthias Roman Catholic Church in Queens at 11:30 a.m. Friday. Burial will be in Cypress Hills Cemetery in Brooklyn.

Citation to accompany the award of the Bronze Star Medal

TO
Specialist Wilfredo Perez Jr.
United States Army

FOR

Meritorious service from 19 March 2003 to 26 July 2003 while assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 67th Armored, 4th Infantry Division. Specialist Perez gave the ultimate sacrifice while participating in combat operations to liberate Iraq. His duty performance and commitment are in keeping with the highest the highest traditions of selfless service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Infantry Division, Victory Corps, and the United States Army.

Given under my hand in the City of Washington this
28th day of July 2003
Gina S. Farrisee, The Adjutant General, and R.L. Brownlee, Secretary of the Army

Bridge at the 15.6-mile mark on Interstate 95 in Norwalk, Connecticut

Memorialized on the Global War on Terrorism Plaque, 55 Calf Pasture Beach Road, Norwalk, Connecticut.

Specialist Perez is buried at Cypress Hills Cemetery, 883 Jamaica Avenue, Brooklyn, New York; Section 16, Lot 117, Grave 24.

I left everyone I loved behind
And laid my life on the line
To free a country at hand
To bring peace to man, not
Knowing that on July 26, 2003
Would be the last day for me.
I am here because of
Terrorism, racism, hate. We
Have to find a way to bring
some love here today. To my
Family and friends, one love.
To the world, “Peace.”
There will be another dream
for me. Someone will dream it.

CAPTAIN ANDREW MICHAEL “PK” PEDERSEN-KEEL; ARMY

DOB/DOD: June 8, 1984 (South Miami, FL) – March 11, 2013; 28 years old
MARITAL STATUS: Engaged to be married to Celeste P. Pizza (1985-).
LOCAL ADDRESS: Buttonball Lane; Madison
COMMISSIONED: May 2006
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY: 18A; Special Forces Officer
UNIT: B Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) [Operation Detachment Alpha 3126]; Fort Bragg, North Carolina
FAMILY: Born to Henry S. Keel (1947-2015) and Helen Pedersen Keiser (1948-). Stepfather, Robert W. Keiser (1949-). One sister, Mary E. Keel (1976-).

DECORATIONS: Awarded the Bronze Star Medal with two devices, Purple Heart Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal (Expeditionary), NATO ISAF (International Security Assistance Force) Medal – Afghanistan, Ranger Tab, Special Forces Tab, Pathfinder Badge, Air Assault Badge, Parachutist Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Expert Infantryman Badge.

CIRCUMSTANCES: Captain Pedersen-Keel was killed in action in the Jalrez District. Wardak Province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when his unit was attacked by small arms fire. Also killed in the incident:

Army Staff Sergeant Rex L. Schad; Edmond, Oklahoma.

Avon Old Farms School (Avon, CT) Class of 2002; yearbook photo. Honor roll student in his senior year. Photos contributed by Avon Old Farms School, Avon, CT.

United States Military Academy at West Point; Class of 2006

**Photo on the top from TogetherWeServed.com. Photo above from West-Point.org.**

**Photo, two above, from TogetherWeServed.com. Photo, above, from CTHM (Connecticut Trees of Honor Memorial).**

From The Avonian, Spring 2013 edition
By Morgan C. Cugell

In Memoriam: Andrew Pedersen-Keel ‘02

Andrew Pedersen-Keel ’02, affectionately known as PK, was killed on March 11, 2013, while bravely serving in Afghanistan. The victim of a well-coordinated attack, he was one of two soldiers killed by an Afghan policeman

who opened fire while PK was leading a briefing in Wardak. According to reports, it is not known whether the assailant was targeting the Afghan policemen along with the U.S. special operations forces; it is also unclear whether the incident was directly related to the simmering tensions between villagers in Wardak who are

unhappy with the U.S. special operations forces and their Afghan partners. A U.S. defense official in Washington and a coalition official in Afghanistan said 10 Americans—both special operators and regular soldiers who worked in a combined team—and at least 12 Afghans were wounded in the attack. Throughout his impressive four-year career at Avon, PK embraced all that the school had to offer. As a Dean’s List student, tri-sport varsity athlete, two-year dormitory monitor, and editor of the Avon Record, he was one of the most well-respected members of the entire school community. He was also involved in Habitat for Humanity and the Model United Nations. Beyond all his academic and athletic achievements, however, was PK’s appreciation for the brotherhood and camaraderie that exist at Avon. He was a leader of men, which is why it came as no surprise when he was admitted to West Point to serve his country proudly, from which he graduated in 2006. “I will always remember PK’s enthusiasm and energy,” said Headmaster LaRocque. “He displayed such passion as a young man and obviously continued to approach life with that same vitality at West Point and beyond. While it is so sad to lose such an impressive young man, PK loved being a soldier, serving his country and his life. He understood the risks that accompanied his profession and embraced them courageously. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.” Dean Kevin Driscoll ’72, who coached PK in football and was dean of students at the time, called him “the alpha dog” despite being one of the smaller players at 5 feet 10 inches tall, and 180 pounds. People listened to him; “he was the man,” Driscoll said. He described him as a hard worker who taught others loyalty and had a high moral standard. PK was never someone who’d just sit around, Driscoll said. PK’s friendships were profoundly important to him, and he earned the trust, respect, and admiration of those around him. Nate Miller ‘02, his best friend and his roommate at Avon, commented, “PK was someone who showed unconditional and unrestrained love for those closest to him, and through that had an amazing ability to allow people to be who they truly are around him.” Describing PK as the brother he never had, Nate nevertheless explained that wasn’t always the case—but once they found their friendship, they never looked back. “We most definitely were not friends and were known to argue for no reason long into the night, annoying our neighbors,” he recalls. “Around Thanksgiving of our freshman year, we both hit a rock bottom point in our lives and realized that the only way we’d get through it was with each other, and that became the foundation of our friendship. “PK was unrestrained, infectious, hilarious, trustworthy, courageous, genuine, loving, and real,” commented Nate. “He was a guy that you always wanted on your team, and I’m infinitely thankful to have been on his.” PK was a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. According to his Army biography, he was first deployed to Afghanistan in 2008 for a 12-month tour, serving as a company executive officer and platoon leader. Following that deployment, he began Special Forces training, which he completed in 2012. At the time of his death, he had been in Afghanistan for his first tour as a Special Forces commander for less than a year. PK’s awards and decorations include two Bronze Star Medals, the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, the Air Assault Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the Pathfinder Badge, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Ranger Tab, and the Special Forces Tab. Governor Dannel P. Malloy ordered U.S. and Connecticut flags to fly at half-staff to honor PK. “Captain Pedersen-Keel made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our state and our nation,” Malloy said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and his unit during this very difficult time. We pray for a safe homecoming for our troops who are stationed around the world and thank them for their bravery and service.” PK’s body was returned to the United States, to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, in a dignified transfer, where family members were waiting. After a family funeral service in Guilford, Connecticut, PK was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. Avon Old Farms honored PK at a memorial service on May 18, during Alumni Weekend.

From AvonOldFarms.com on November 15, 2022

AVON OLD FARMS HONORS ARMY CAPTAIN ANDREW PEDERSEN-KEEL ‘02

For the third consecutive Veterans Day, the Avon Old Farms School community honored a fallen brother in cooperation with APK Charities Corporation—a non-profit founded to honor and remember the ultimate sacrifice made by Avonian Captain Andrew M. Pedersen-Keel, US Army Special Forces. Decorated soldier Pedersen-Keel ’02 was a proud member of the Avon Old Farms community. Throughout high school, he embraced all that AOF had to offer. He was a Dean’s List student, tri-sport varsity athlete, dormitory monitor, and editor of the school newspaper. Remembered for his enthusiasm, energy, loyalty, and high moral standards, he earned the trust, respect, and admiration of those around him. He graduated in 2002 and then from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2006. Andrew was first deployed to Afghanistan in 2008 as an Army Ranger, serving as company executive officer and platoon leader. Following his first deployment, he began Special Forces training, which he completed on June 28, 2012. Andrew was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). On March 11, 2013, Captain Andrew Pedersen Keel, known as ‘PK,’ was killed in action in Eastern Afghanistan. At the time of his death, Pedersen-Keel was serving as Detachment Commander of the Green Beret Special Forces team in eastern Afghanistan. On that day, several NATO and Afghan service members, including Andrew, a second American soldier, Staff Sergeant Rex L. Schad from Oklahoma, and the military working dog “Bak,” were killed when an assailant wearing an Afghan National Security uniform opened fire on the group. Andrew was 28 years old. Pedersen-Keel received several awards during his career, including three Bronze Stars, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Purple Heart. In his career, Andrew also earned the Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, Special Forces Tab, Pathfinder Badge, Air Assault Badge, Parachutist Badge, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and the NATO Medal. During the all-school Morning Meeting on Friday, November 11, Andrew’s mother, Helen, took the podium and shared a letter written by one of Andrew’s best friends. It spoke about Andrew’s character, how he was an unwavering friend with heroic bravery. The plan for the afternoon was to host an all-school 5K for APK charities, but the remnants of Hurricane Nicole thwarted those plans. The run will be rescheduled for the spring. The APK Charities provides financial aid and material assistance to charitable organizations and causes. APK Charities’ mission is to serve as a bridge connecting our society and our Armed Forces, opening our hearts and minds to serve those who protect us. We are forever grateful to the brave men and women who have protected our country, and we will always remember the life of an extraordinary Avonian, Captain Andrew Pedersen-Keel ’02 who died doing what he loved: serving the United States of America.

From The Hartford Courant on March 13, 2013
By Kelly Glista

SOLDIER WITH STATE TIES AMONG DEAD

MADISON — Army Captain Andrew Pedersen-Keel, who had lived in Madison and graduated from Avon Old Farms School, was killed in the line of duty in Afghanistan Monday, Madison First Selectman Fillmore McPherson said. His family was told of his death Monday, McPherson said. McPherson said that Pedersen-Keel was one of two American soldiers killed on Monday in the eastern province of Wardak. Three police officers and two Afghan Army officers were also killed in the attack when a man dressed in an Afghan military uniform opened fire on U.S. and Afghan forces at a joint base, according to a report by Reuters. It was not clear if the attack targeted U.S. special forces, Reuters reported. “There are no words that could ever compensate for that kind of loss,” said U.S. Representative Joe Courtney, who represents the state’s 2nd District, which includes Madison. “Our country is so lucky to have people who are always ready to serve.” U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said Pedersen-Keel’s death was a reminder of the enormous toll the war has taken. “Wardak Province, where he was, is a particularly perilous and problematic place these days,” Blumenthal said. “It’s one of the toughest, and he was doing some of the most dangerous and demanding work.” According to the Reuters report, the attack came as a deadline for U.S. special forces to leave the province expired, following accusations by Afghan President Hamid Karzai that they and Afghans working for them were overseeing torture and killings in the area. U.S. forces denied involvement in any abuses in the region, Reuters reported. “This is the worst kind of incident of all,” Courtney said. “I know from talking to people at the House Armed Services Committee that these types of incidents produce a lot of anger and outrage in the military. It is betrayal, and it undermines the trust and the whole plan of transition to Afghan security forces.” Pedersen-Keel’s body was scheduled to return to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Tuesday night, according to the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Public Affairs Office. “There is no easing the worry that loved ones suffer and now the profound grief and pain of his family,” Blumenthal said. “My heart goes out to them, and my thanks for giving us this hero.” Pedersen-Keel graduated from Avon Old Farms School in 2002 and from the West Point Military Academy in 2006. He grew up mostly in Florida but was a boarding student while at Avon Old Farms, and his mother lived in Canton at the time, according to neighbors who knew the family in Canton. Pedersen-Keel and his mother later moved to Madison. Neighbors said his mother works at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Kenneth LaRocque, headmaster at Avon Old Farms School, said Pedersen-Keel — or “PK” as he was known — was an excellent student. He was a three-sport varsity athlete, an honor roll student, and a participant in many other school activities, and he was thrilled when he was accepted at West Point, LaRocque said. The school holds its alumni weekend in May, and LaRocque said he was sure a memorial for Pedersen Keel would be planned for that weekend. Courant Political Editor Rick Green and FOX CT reporter Laurie Perez contributed to this story.

From The Record-Journal (Meriden, CT) on March 23, 2013
By Eric Vo | Record-Journal staff

WAS HE A HUMANITARIAN? YES. A HERO? ABSOLUTELY.
Wallingford Remembers Soldier Who Was Killed In Afghanistan and The Lessons He Taught Here

WALLINGFORD — U.S. Army Captain Andrew M. Pedersen-Keel spent a good part of his youth living in town and attending local schools. Determined, funny, smart, ambitious, a humanitarian — those are just some of the ways he’s being remembered in Wallingford. Pedersen-Keel, 28, was one of two U.S. soldiers killed in Afghanistan on March 11 when an Afghan police officer opened fire on U.S. and Afghan forces. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. A West Point graduate and recipient of two Bronze Stars, Pedersen-Keel attended Parker Farms School and Moran Middle School before his family moved to Florida. He then began attending the boarding school Avon Old Farms, from which he graduated in 2002. The family now lives in Madison. Pedersen-Keel’s fifth-grade teacher, Maureen Binder, said Friday that she remembers him well and can recall where he sat in her class. “He was just one of those children you always remember,” she said. “He had blonde hair and blue eyes. I still remember his smile to this day … that wonderful, bright smile.” Binder said she plans to attend his funeral service in Guilford on Monday. She said she won’t be able to make it to Arlington National Cemetery for Pedersen-Keel’s military burial, but she plans to visit during the summer. “This summer, I was planning on going to Arlington. Now I have a beautiful reason to go,” she said. Even when he was young, Pedersen-Keel’s teachers recognized something special about him, she said. He knew what he wanted and wouldn’t give up until he succeeded, Binder said, and he had innate leadership ability. “He was someone who wanted to take charge,” and “you just knew good things would come from him,” she said. Sometimes, when you have those qualities as a young kid, it makes you an amazing adult.” James Andreson, an eighth-grade history teacher at Moran, also saw something in Pedersen-Keel. Andreson said he frequently has his students participate in a video project. He chose Pedersen-Keel to be an anchorman, which meant he had the responsibility of introducing each student’s news segment. “I selected him because I knew he was very smart,” Andreson said. “It was the leadership quality or charisma that made me very comfortable with putting him in that role for the project.” Binder said she wasn’t surprised when she heard that Pedersen-Keel had been accepted into the U.S. Military Academy at West Point or that he achieved the rank of captain at a young age. He graduated from West Point in 2006. Michael Somers met Pedersen-Keel at Moran, and the two remained close friends, he said. He was someone who wanted to make the most out of life, Somers said. “He was always on the lookout for a new adventure,” he said. About five years ago, Pedersen-Keel returned to Parker Farms to collect school supplies to donate to children in Afghanistan. It was something both Binder and Somers said was typical of him. “He was always trying to help other people,” Binder said. “Was he a humanitarian? Yes. A hero? Absolutely.” Though Somers says he and Pedersen-Keel were polar opposites, they struck up a friendship that lasted well past their middle school days. The two made sure to see each other during the holidays and to talk on the phone every once in a while. After hearing the news of his death and as a way to express his thoughts and feelings, Somers said, he wrote a letter to Pedersen-Keel. “You taught me more than you’ll ever know: you taught me that life isn’t well lived if you don’t do things that scare you and make you uncomfortable from time to time. You taught me not to care what other people in school thought of me. You showed me the value in breaking some rules, of questioning authority, of talking to people who frighten you, of standing up for myself,” Somers wrote. “Most importantly, you always reminded me that, like you, I was special — and knowing that someone who could have had any friend he wanted in school but instead chose to hang out with me, instilled me with a sense of confidence that I still carry with me today.” While tragic, Pedersen-Keel’s death was a “teachable moment” for educators, Andreson said. “It’s one of those things where something happens, and you just drop what you’re doing, and you teach that (event) because it’s all related,” he said. When Binder learned of Pedersen-Keel’s death, she said, she made a point of describing him to her students. To honor him, she said, her students are planning to plant a tree and carve his name into a stone to place at the base. At Moran, Andreson said he is planning a Memorial Day event to teach students who Pedersen-Keel was and the meaning behind the holiday. While Pedersen-Keel spent only a part of his life in town, his legacy lives on — inspiring students and, as with Somers, giving them a sense of confidence they didn’t have before. “The only silver lining in this tragedy is that you accomplished and experienced more in your 28 years than the vast majority of people do in a lifetime. … You touched and inspired literally thousands of people with your life of valor,” Somers wrote. “The world, your family, your friends, and myself are worse off after this tragedy but infinitely better off for having the opportunity to have known you.” Governor Dannel P. Malloy has ordered all flags be lowered to half-staff in honor of Pedersen-Keel.

Memorialized with a segment of Route 79 from Route 1 to the intersection of Green Hill Road in Madison, Connecticut.

Captain Pedersen-Keel is buried in Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington, Virginia; Section 60, Site 10108.

Prayer of the Green Beret

Almighty God, Who art the Author of liberty and the Champion of the oppressed, hear our prayer.
We, the soldiers of the Special Forces, acknowledge our dependence upon Thee in the preservation of human freedom.
Go with us as we seek to defend the defenseless and to free the enslaved.
May we ever remember that our nation, whose motto is “In God We Trust,” expects that we shall acquit ourselves with honor that we may never bring shame upon our faith, our families, or our fellow men.
Grant us wisdom from Thy mind, courage from Thine heart, strength from Thine arm, and protection by Thine hand.
It is for Thee that we do battle, and to Thee belongs the victor’s crown. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power and glory, forever, Amen.

SERGEANT FIRST CLASS DAEHAN PARK; ARMY

DOB/DOD: July 25, 1974 (Watertown, CT) – March 12, 2011; 26 years old
OTHER NAME: Also known as Michael Schneider.
MARITAL STATUS: Married to Mi Kyong Park (1963-).
CHILDREN: Two daughters, Sadie (-) and Niya J. Kyong-Park (2000-).
LOCAL ADDRESS: Brierwood Drive; Watertown
ENLISTMENT: February 1998
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY: 18E40; Special Forces Communications Sergeant
UNIT: Company C, 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group; Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington

FAMILY: Adopted by Joseph R. Schneider Jr. (1946-) and Bonnie Schneider (1955-). One twin brother, Sae Jin [also known as Jeremy Schneider] (1974-2018). One sister, Katie (1977-). Sae Jin Park, also an Airborne Ranger and Special Forces, died after a brief illness shortly after returning from a deployment in Iraq with Special Forces.

DECORATIONS: Awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with three devices, one of which is a V for valor, Army Achievement Medal with device, Army Good Conduct Medal with 4 devices, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with 3 devices, Global War on Terrorism Medal (Expeditionary), Global War on Terrorism Medal (Service), Army NCO Professional Development Ribbon with 3 devices, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon with 2 devices, Combat Infantry Badge, Parachutist Badge (Basic), Air Assault Badge, Rifle Expert Badge, and Special Forces Badge.

CIRCUMSTANCES: Sergeant First Class Park was killed when his vehicle was struck by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) during a patrol near Dahane Say, Afghanistan.

OTHER: From Joe Schneider [used with permission]: “DaeHan and SaeJin were adopted when they were 16 months old. They acclimated quickly; they were in separate foster homes in Korea but were close when they arrived. They were always competitive and always protective of each other. While both had 3 years of college under their belts, I had suggested that a hitch in the Army could be a good thing in terms of getting a broader view of the world outside Connecticut and a $20,000 sign-up bonus. They both signed up for a 4-year hitch, and to my surprise, both decided they liked it. After tours in Iraq and Korea, the next step was Airborne, followed up with Ranger qualification, and finally Special Forces. Neither could be outdone. On Mike’s [DaeHan’s] last tour, where he got hit, he told me he planned to go for officer or warrant officer on returning. At that time, his brother was on a qualification course to join JSOC [Joint Special Operation Command], where he served for the next 7 years. Their sister was also adopted from Korea when she was 23 months old, and the boys were 3 at the time. Mike was a good student and was on the school tennis team. Prior to the Army, Mike was slight in build, and he told me at his Ranger graduation that he was always bothered that he wasn’t bigger. At this point, he looked more like the Rock than the high school tennis player. We were close, and I do miss both him and his brother. Their mother passed away when they were 20. Bonnie, who I married in 2004, got very close to Mike and spoke to him often and talked to him the night before he died. His cousin, who was in the Army stationed in Washington, D.C., was part of DaeHan’s dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base along with his brother and two of his team members.”

Watertown High School Class of 1992

**Photo from FindAGrave.com. Contributed by contributor Genealogy Girl.**

USASOC (Army Special Operations Command) News Service March 14, 2011

FORT BRAGG, North Carolina – Sergeant First Class DaeHan Park, 36, of Lacey, Washington, died after his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device on March 12, 2011, in the vicinity of Kajran, Daykundi, Afghanistan. Park was assigned to Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, and was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom-Afghanistan. This was Park’s fourth deployment in support of overseas contingency operations. Park, a graduate of Watertown High School in Watertown, Connecticut, enlisted in the U. S. Army in February 1998 as an Infantryman. Upon completion of basic training and advanced individual training, Park was assigned to Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, Fort Campbell, Kentucky. In 2000, he earned the coveted Ranger Tab and participated in the Best Ranger Competition in 2002. In March 2003, he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as a Rifle Squad Leader. Upon his return from Iraq, Park was assigned as an observer/controller at the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk, La. In 2005, Park volunteered for the Special Forces Assessment and Selection Course and completed the Special Forces Qualification Course in 2006. Park was then assigned to 3rd Bn, 1st SFG (A) Joint Base Lewis-McChord as a Special Forces communications sergeant with Operational Detachment Alpha 1333. During his time with the 3rd Battalion, he completed numerous worldwide missions to include Bangladesh, Operation Iraqi Freedom VI, Operation Enduring Freedom-Philippines, Cambodia, and India. This was his first rotation to Afghanistan. Park’s military education includes the U.S. Army Airborne School, Warrior Leader Course, Basic Non-Commissioned Officers Course, Advanced Leader Course, Ranger School, Air Assault School, Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape Course, Jumpmaster Course, Special Operations Target Interdiction Course, and Special Forces Qualification Course. Park’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal (1 OLC), the Army Achievement Medal (1 OLC), the Army Good Conduct Medal (4th award), the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal (Expeditionary), Global War on Terrorism Medal (Service), Overseas Service Ribbon (2nd award) Non-commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (3rd award), Army Service Ribbon, Special Forces Tab, Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, Parachutist’s Badge, and the Air Assault Badge. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart. He is survived by his wife, Mi Kyong Park; his daughters, Niya and Sadie; his parents, Joseph and Bonnie Schneider of Thomaston, Connecticut; and his sister and brother, Katie and Saejin of Watertown, Connecticut.

From The Olympian (Olympia, WA) on March 15, 2011
By Matt Misterek | Staff Writer

BOMB IN AFGHANISTAN KILLS LACEY GREEN BERET

Roadside bombs in Afghanistan have claimed a third local soldier in a period of two weeks after several months of relative calm. A Green Beret who was stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord and who made his home in Lacey was killed Saturday in central Afghanistan, the Department of Defense announced Monday. Sergeant First Class DaeHan Park, 36, died when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive in Daykundi Province, according to Army Special Operations Command. Park was assigned to Charlie Company of the 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group. He was reportedly riding on a combat reconnaissance patrol in which two other soldiers were wounded. He was married, had two young daughters, and was a devoted family man, said Major Matt Gregory, a spokesman for 1st Group, who said he’d known Park since 2000. “He was a consummate professional,” Gregory said Monday evening. “Everything he did was to improve himself so he could improve others.” Park was on his first rotation to Afghanistan and had been in the country for about a month. His list of other military missions to the Asian continent was far-flung: Iraq, Bangladesh, Philippines, Cambodia, and India. After graduating from high school in Watertown, Connecticut, Park enlisted as an infantryman in 1998, according to Army records. He went on to earn his Ranger credentials in 2000, qualifying for the elite tab on his left shoulder while holding a junior rank. “Getting a slot with the 101st Airborne is a hard thing to do, and he was a specialist at the time he did it,” Gregory said. “He also did the Best Ranger Competition (in 2002), which put him up against some of the top soldiers in the world.” Park served in Iraq as a rifle squad leader in 2003, according to Army records. His completion of Special Forces training in 2006 led directly to an assignment with the 1st Group at the Army base south of Tacoma, specializing in communications. As a Green Beret, he joined a subculture set apart – soldiers who go on unpublicized deployments, train in languages, navigate foreign societies, and work alongside indigenous forces. He is the 14th reported member of the 1st Group to die in action since September 11, 2001. Park is also the third Lewis-McChord soldier killed by enemy explosives in the last two weeks. Specialist Jason Weaver and Specialist David Fahey, both with the 170th Military Police Company, were attacked in southern Afghanistan: Weaver on March 3 and Fahey on February 23. Full-honor memorial ceremonies for both MPs are pending at Lewis-McChord. Local remembrances for Park will be done on a smaller scale. As is their custom, Green Berets gather privately at their memorial wall outside 1st Group headquarters on Memorial Day and Veterans Day to dedicate the names of any recently fallen comrades. Park is survived by his wife, Mi Kyong Park; daughters Niya and Sadie; parents, Joseph and Bonnie Schneider of Connecticut; and a sister and brother, also of Connecticut.

Memorialized with a bench in Veterans Memorial Park, 570 Nova Scotia Hill Road, Watertown, Connecticut. Photo contributed by Michael Ganem, Director of Parks and Recreation, Town of Watertown.

Sergeant First Class Park is buried in Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th Street, Kent Washington; Section 25, Site 208.

**Photo from FindAGrave.com. Photo by contributor Donald Miller.**

CAPTAIN ERIC THOMAS “BIG E” PALIWODA; ARMY

DOB/DOD: February 23, 1975 (Hartford, CT) – January 2, 2004; 28 years old
MARITAL STATUS: Engaged to be married to Wendy Rosen (1974-) of Hartsdale, New York.
LOCAL ADDRESS: 25 Arapahoe Road; West Hartford
COMMISSIONED: May 31, 1997
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY: 12A; Engineer, General
UNIT: Company B, 4th Engineering Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division; Fort Carson, Colorado

FAMILY: Born to Alfred H. (1950-) and Mary A. Luneberg Paliwoda (1950-). One sister, Allison Paliwoda Csoka (1976-).

DECORATIONS: Awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Army Commendation Medal with device, Army Achievement Medal with device, National Defense Service Medal with device, Global War on Terrorism Medal (Expeditionary), Global War On Terrorism Medal (Service), Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon, Engineer Badge, and the Valorous Unit Award.

CIRCUMSTANCES: Captain Paliwoda was killed in action when his command post came under mortar attack in Salah ad Din, Iraq, near Balad.

Conard High School (West Hartford, CT) Class of 1993. In 1992, Eric Paliwoda was named a top-20 high school basketball player in the state.

Memorialized with a monument in front of Conard High School, West Hartford. One of three people in this book who graduated from Conard High School. The others are McMahon & Philippon.

West Point Class of 1997. In 1997, Cadet Paliwoda won the Patriot League championship in the hammer throw while on the track and field team at West Point.

**Photo from FindAGrave.com. Photo by contributor GLA3.**

From The Stars & Stripes on January 8, 2004
By Rick Scavetta

SOLDIERS IN IRAQ MOURN CAPTAIN

BALAD, Iraq — Last Friday, as enemy mortar shells rained down on Forward Operating Base Eagle, Captain Eric Paliwoda rushed to his mobile trailer to don his gear. One of nine shells that fell that afternoon sent shrapnel into Paliwoda, snuffing the life out of a company commander described by his troops as a gentle giant who took good care of them. “He put on a tough persona, but then he’d turn around and tell you a joke,” said Sergeant 1st Class Michael Smith, 2nd platoon sergeant. “Everybody’s felt a big loss.” Soldiers from Company B, 4th Engineer Battalion, gathered on Wednesday to pay tribute to Paliwoda. The 1997 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point took command of the company in May. A 28-year-old Connecticut native, Paliwoda was engaged to Wendy Rosen. He is survived by his parents, Alfred and Mary. He also leaves behind a company of combat engineers who are both saddened by his death and determined to find the enemy fighters responsible for a wave of recent mortar attacks. The soldiers are getting used to hearing incoming shells. “You hear a boom, with a sort of crack to it,” said Sergeant Joseph Kokes, 25, of Woodbury, Minnesota. “If it’s real close, you hear it whistle.” That afternoon, many soldiers thought the first mortar impact was a controlled detonation of captured explosives, said Corporal Keoni Escobido, 23, of Honolulu, who was in his trailer playing video games when the attack began. “When you hear that second blast, you know it’s an attack,” Escobido said. “We grab our gear and run to the tracks.” Soldiers in Company B are trained to take cover if rounds land close. Then, they grab gear, mount vehicles, and head out to find their attackers. During the barrage, flying shrapnel struck Staff Sergeant Todd Moyer as he ran toward his squad, said Sergeant 1st Class Michael Smith, 37, of Willits, California. Moyer was wounded in the arms and back. He was evacuated to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, where he is recovering, Smith said. After the attack, helicopter crews located four Iraqis near where the rounds were fired. As troops were reeling from the loss, Iraqi insurgents struck again Monday. Thirteen mortar rounds fell on their camp. Working from a local informant, soldiers are holding six more Iraqis who are now being interrogated. An Iraqi artillery officer is suspected of helping the enemy mortar crews fire effectively, said Lieutenant Colonel Nate Sassaman, commander of 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment. “The last two attacks have been fairly accurate,” Sassaman said, adding that he intends to take out the mortar cell. Company B is attached to Sassaman’s battalion. Since last April, the company has operated in some of the theater’s toughest areas: Tikrit, Kirkuk, Samarra, and Balad. It has done everything from demolishing weapons caches to conducting infantry raids. This week, Company B engineers were allowed time off from missions as they improved force protection measures around the camp, which they renamed FOB Paliwoda in honor of their fallen commander. “This has brought everyone closer,” Smith said. “We’ll just keep doing the same things as a team. We’ll keep going out after them.”

From FindAGrave.com

Eric was the beloved son of Alfred and Mary Paliwoda of Sedona, Arizona. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his fiancée, Wendy Rosen of Hartsdale, New York, his sister and brother-in-law, Allison, and Captain Jeff Csoka of Clarksville, Tennessee. He graduated from West Point in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science Degree and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. Following graduation from the Academy, Eric traveled to Fort Hood, Texas, where he served as both a Platoon Leader and an Executive Officer for an Engineering Battalion. He then moved to Fort Carson, Colorado, where he was the Battalion Personnel Officer and Assistant Brigade Engineer for the 3rd Engineering Battalion. Over the course of his career, Eric was awarded both the Army Commendation Medal and the Army Achievement Medal twice, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. He will also be honored with a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star posthumously. Eric had served as Company Commander for Bravo Company, 3rd Engineering Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colorado, as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom since April 2003. He had also recently been chosen to return to West Point as an instructor in the Department of Environmental Studies.

From Legacy.com

United States Army Captain Eric Thomas Paliwoda, 28, formerly of West Hartford and Farmington, was killed in action on Friday, (January 2, 2004) in Balad, Iraq. Born February 23, 1975, in Hartford, Eric was the beloved son of Alfred and Mary Paliwoda of Sedona, Arizona. In addition to his parents, his sister and brother-in-law Allison and Captain Jeff Csoka of Clarksville, TN, his fiancée Wendy Rosen of Hartsdale, NY, and his uncle, aunt, and cousins Thomas, Susan, Michael, and Cailin Luneburg of Danville, CA survive him. Eric is predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Phyllis and Thomas Luneburg, and paternal grandparents, Helen and Jan Paliwoda. Growing up in Farmington, Eric attended West District Elementary School and Irving A. Robbins Middle School. Eric graduated from West Hartford’s Conard High School in 1993, where he was an exceptional student and an All-State and All-American honored basketball player. During high school, he received a congressional nomination and was accepted to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Eric entered the Academy in 1993, and over his four years there, he was a member of the Army’s Division I Basketball and Track & Field teams. He graduated from West Point in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. Following graduation from the Academy, Eric traveled to Fort Hood, Texas, where he served as both a Platoon Leader and an Executive Officer for an Engineering Battalion. He then moved to Fort Carson, Colorado, where he was the Battalion Personnel Officer and Assistant Brigade Engineer for the 3rd Engineering Battalion. Eric’s extensive military education included graduation from the Engineer Officer Basic course, the Scout Platoon Leaders Course, the Armor Officer Advanced Course, the Combined Arms Services Staff School, and the Cavalry Leaders Course. Over the course of his career, Eric was awarded both the Army Commendation Medal and the Army Achievement Medal twice, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. He will also be honored with a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star posthumously. Eric had served as Company Commander for Bravo Company, 3rd Engineering Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colorado, as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom since April 2003. He had also recently been chosen to return to West Point as an instructor in the Department of Environmental Studies. Eric will be terribly missed by all of those who knew, loved, and cherished him. As a special leader and friend, he reached, touched, and changed many lives during his brief time on this earth. Services will be held Monday, January 12, at 1:30 p.m. in the Old Cadet Chapel at West Point, New York. Burial will follow at West Point Military Cemetery.

Memorialized on the Connecticut Veterans Memorial, Farmington Avenue, and North Main Street, West Hartford, Connecticut.

From FallenHeroesMemorial.com

“Captain Paliwoda was the first in the company he was leading to welcome our Civil Affairs team into his FOB when we arrived. His concern for our welfare was surprising, considering the fact that he had just met us that November day. After moving with his company to Camp Eagle (renamed Camp Paliwoda in his recognition), Paliwoda was the first to greet us at the mess tent during the Christmas meal, thanking us personally for our contributions. After his death, the town of Yathrib held a funeral for him. The town of Yathrib, a village next to Balad, absolutely loved this man, as shown by the hundreds of mourners gathered for his funeral. Captain Paliwoda, I cannot express the grief I feel in my heart. When the time comes, I’ll see you on the other side, sir.”

— Kendrick Lau of Newton, MA

Captain Paliwoda is buried in the United States Military Academy Post Cemetery, 329 Washington Road, West Point, New York; Section XXI, Row E, Site 84.

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS GEBRAH PAWNEH NOONAN; ARMY

DOB/DOD: May 31, 1984 (Hartford, CT) – September 24, 2010; 26 years old
MARITAL STATUS: Unmarried
LOCAL ADDRESS: Highland Avenue; Watertown
ENLISTMENT: October 26, 2009
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY: 11B10; Infantryman
UNIT: Headquarters & Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team; Fort Stewart, Georgia

FAMILY: Born to William J. (1954-) and Ling A. Chin Noonan (1954-). Two brothers, Ariel A. (1982-) and Adlai O. (1986-). One sister, Sheminith K. (1987-). Two stepbrothers, Patrick Jacques (1984-) and Paul Jacques (1986-).

DECORATIONS: Awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two devices, Global War On Terrorism (Service) Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon, Rifle Marksman Badge, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.

CIRCUMSTANCES: Private First Class Noonan died September 24 in Fallujah, Iraq, of injuries sustained September 23 when a fellow soldier shot him to death. Also killed in the incident:

Army Specialist John Carillo Jr.; Stockton, California

Watertown High School Class of 2002

**Photo from Army.TogetherWeServed.com**

**The collage of photos was contributed by Ling Chin Noonan, Gebrah’s mother.**

TOP LEFT: First Sergeant Thomas Price, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, pays his final respects to his fallen Soldiers – Specialist John Carrillo Jr. and Private First Class. Gebrah Noonan – during a memorial service at Camp Ramadi, Iraq, October 2, 2010. (Photos by Staff Sgt. Tanya Thomas) BOTTOM LEFT: Soldiers render a final salute to Specialist John Carrillo Jr. and Private First Class Gebrah Noonan, both Soldiers assigned to HHC, 3-15 Inf., who died in a non-combat related incident on September 23 at Camp Fallujah, Iraq. BOTTOM RIGHT: Captain Drew Turner, chaplain with 3/15 Inf., 4th AAB, comforts Specialist Shawnell Lattimore, HHC, 3-15, as he looks at the memorial built in honor of Specialist John Carrillo Jr. and Private First Class Gebrah Noonan, October 2, 2010. Photos from the Vanguard Voice, Vol 2, Issue 2, Sep-Oct 2010.

A tree planted was planted in his honor off of Cottrell Parade Field on Fort Stewart, Georgia.

Memorialized with a bench in Veterans Memorial Park, 570 Nova Scotia Hill Road, Watertown, Connecticut.

**Photo contributed by Michael Ganem, Director of Parks, Recreation, Senior, and Social Services, Town of Watertown.**

Private First Class Noonan is buried in Greenwood Union Cemetery, 215 North Street, Rye, New York; Valley Section, Lot 42A.

WEBMASTER NOTE ABOUT THE FOOTSTONE: U.S. combat operations ended in Iraq on September 1, 2010. American troops remained in the country to advise Iraqi security forces as part of Operation NEW DAWN until the final withdrawal on December 15, 2011. Also, on the footstone is “Proverbs 28:2.” From the King James Bible: For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged.

PAUL HERBERT PROTZENKO; CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE WITH MPRI

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SPECIALIST DENNIS JOSEPH PRATT; ARMY

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CORPORAL JORDAN CHRISTOPHER PIERSON; MARINE CORPS RESERVES

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LANCE CORPORAL LAWRENCE ROBERT PHILIPPON; MARINE CORPS

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STAFF SERGEANT JOSEPH EDGAR PHANEUF, II; ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

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PRIVATE FIRST CLASS WILFREDO “JUNIOR” PEREZ, JR.; ARMY

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CAPTAIN ANDREW MICHAEL “PK” PEDERSEN-KEEL; ARMY

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SERGEANT FIRST CLASS DAEHAN PARK; ARMY

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CAPTAIN ERIC THOMAS “BIG E” PALIWODA; ARMY

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PRIVATE FIRST CLASS GEBRAH PAWNEH NOONAN; ARMY

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