After escorting many fallen soldiers to their final resting place, I’ve learned that nothing is more heart wrenching than the cries of a grieving widow.
As the rifle shots echoed and the bugler played, the cries of April Perez, widow of Spc. Orlando “Tony” Perez could be heard above the sound of flags whipping in the brisk, chilled wind. Dreams of a life with her husband, of future children jumping into their Daddy’s arms, shattered by the cold reality of war.
By all accounts, Tony was a model soldier and citizen. His parents emigrated from El Salvador to the U.S. in search of a better life. Tony took advantage of their dream and avoided the crime ridden gang life that so often befalls young men. He joined the ROTC at Bellaire High School and later attended the University of Houston Downtown. But the call to see the world and participate in a higher calling was too strong and interrupted his education to join the Army.
On Sunday, Feb. 24th, Tony was killed in action in Iraq as he was trying to rid neighborhoods of insurgents, making them safe for everyday life, for people he’d never met but knew, deep down, it was the right thing to do. He was a leader, taking on the challenge of entering rooms first, with unknown danger lying in wait. His platoon members recognized his bravery, earning their respect and friendship.
I asked a young boy of 8 or 9 today if he knew Tony. He replied, “my cousin? Sure, he lived with us for three years. He was fun. He was cool.”
I suspect that Tony’s family will surround his young widow and let her feel some of the love that she has lost. In time, her hurt will subside and she will recognize that she is not the only person that lost time with Tony. We all did.
You see, it is men like Tony Perez that make this great nation great. Men that seek a higher calling and are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for you and me.
Perhaps, as LST member LizBV said about the Patriot Guard Riders, “The families are so grief stricken, these days are a blurr - but the heart “takes pictures.” One day they will hold onto the picture YOU and your brothers have provided.”
Rest in peace, soldier. Godspeed to your family.
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Great Post, Jolly, Thanks–it’s men like Tony that make us safe in a dangerous world.
Again, thanks, Jolly.
In six more days my nephew and his small team leave for Iraq for 10 months, going from town to town, teaching local Iraqi’s how to fight and guard their own areas.
It is because of men like Tony Perez, my nephew, and so many other men and women that we sleep safe at night. I’ll sleep well when he returns safe again.
For those of you who want to do something to really help keep them safe and do their mission, there is something you can contribute to tax free that helps them keep their weapons very clean in that dusty, sandy country. My best friend from the Marines just forked out over $200 out of pocket to buy 10 gun cleaning kits from Operation Bore Snake. These kits allow our warriors to clean their weapons much faster and more thoroughly, allowing them to get some additional sleep. Here’s the link:
http://www.projectboresnake.com/
You can do this through their website of call 559-222-4050 (These are the folks running project Bore Snake). Mr. Kocheiser’s daughter will likely answer the phone. The name is pronounced KOH HI ZER.
Thanks.
G_-d Speed. Tony was a hero
Big45
Your nephew is already a HERO. We pray He will come home safely.
Dov 3 & 4, You said it all, sir.
I agree with all of you….prayers for his family
BigJ - THANKS bubba!(’sounds’ made their mark on our hearts at the Escort Sunday as well………)
Spc Perez your nation will never forget you! R. I. P.
Big45 - VERY interesting!
God bless this fallen soldier, and his family. My heart breaks for them.
This post is a wonderful tribute, my compliments to the author.
Only 7 more days and my son will be OUT OF THE NAVY, after 5 yrs and 8 mos. of service. I am a fortunate parent that will be able to welcome my son home with open arms and warm kisses instead of tears and a heavy heart.
Tears and sorrow.