Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"This message is so long past due. However, after searching for friends on facebook, I just found out that one of my childhood friends is gone. I am so sorry. I met George on a bus from NYC to Wildwood, N.J. His smile quickly won my friendship. We stayed pen pals for several years and a trip back to NY with my family won a place in my heart. I was hoping to find him happily married, with kids, but instead, my heart aches for his wife and children. He truly was a wonderful person and I know he touched everyone's life that he came in contact with, as he did mine. He is responsible for some of my most cherist childhood memories. Thank you for the memories George. May God bless you and your family."
Joan (Hanrahan) Woodrow of New Britain, Pa

"To the family - I know no words can replace the loss of your son, husband and father. Know that I served with SSG Pugliese over the years - as an instructor at Indiantown Gap and in a sister unit while in Bosnia-Herzegovina. I would run into him at Ft. Drum, or Ft. Pickett, and he was always quick with a warm smile, and hearty handshake. I learned of the events of his death while working out of Ft. Bragg several years and I cannot tell you how it shook me to the core. What I do know is that George's strongest character trait was in seeing the success of those he lead, and protecting those who served alongside him. He was a soldier's soldier, and one who I always admired for those traits he possessed. Again, I wanted you to know that the remarks of the soldiers here are right on point, and that while these words will never return him, I hope you find some solace in knowing that George was loved, respected and admired by all who served with him. Further, I now use George as an example, when I talk to those in my civilian career, as the example of the men and women who serve - those who lived and sacrificed - and our dedicated service to those men and women is the very least we can provide them. Bless you all."
Jason Port of Cary, North Carolina

"uncle danny, i love you soo much i cant believe your gone
miss you love you"
Meg of Montrose PA

"To the Family and Friends of Staff Sgt. George A. Pugliese,

My name is David M. Chasse (aka nopepr). each year since 9/11/2001 in New Hampshire a group of people come together and hike all 48 peaks over 4000 feet and fly Old Glory in honor of the people that died that fateful day. I started hiking and coordinating a peak in 2007. Last year I decided to honor not only those that died on 9/11 but also those that went to fight after that day. last year I honored SPC William Evans who was one of the troops under Staff Sgt. Pugliese command. This year with a little help from Bill Evans mother Judy I chose to honor Staff Sgt. George A. Pugliese. I'd like to learn more about the man I am honoring. I also want the family and friends and others to know that these men and their families sacrifice is not forgotten even to strangers like myself.

Thank you,"
David M. Chasse of Rollinsford NH

"August 20, 2008
To the family of Staff Sgt. George A. Pugliese:
George gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"Dearest George, Here I sit, Christmas eve 2007, and all I think of right now are all the wonderful Christmases we spent together. One of my best memories was of you, your brothers and myself piling into our old station wagon and going out on a cold Christmas eve at nearly midnight to
find a tree that nobody wanted. We nearly froze, but find it we did, took it home and stayed up singing carols until we had it trimmed. By that time we had all thawed out and had the warmest feelings of togetherness and love.

I miss your putting up the lights on our home. It looked like a gingerbread house by the time you were finished.
And the year you insisted on having pizza for Christmas eve, even it you had to make it yourself. Well by golly, you did just that, and I had to admit it was one of the best evenings we ever had.

I guess all these memories are what make it seem as though you had never left us. You will be forever with us and our love for you always grows stronger as the days pass by.

Lee Anne, Nicholas, Jonathon, Avianna as well as Stephen, Laura and their boys were all here to enjoy opening their presents. Tomorrow Santa will be at your home. The children are all growing up so fast, and you can be proud of them. We all miss you but know now that you are safely in the care of our Father and that you will be there for us when we will meet again.

So, dearest George although we miss your presence, we know that your love will be encircling us and you will be looking over us and protecting us. Until next time, know that you will be in our thoughts and prayers and that we will always love you.

All my love, now and forever. Your mom,"
Dolores Parker of Honesdale, PA

"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7ixC-LYDGc"
steve of florida

"Here it is again, Sept.18,2007 your 2nd birthday that you are spending with the angels. The days pass slowly and then they fly by. It's hard sometimes to remember that you aren't here and that it's not just a bad dream.

We have so many good memories to think back on. All the silly and sometimes dangerous things we all attempted, any yet we all came through them even stronger. Your brothers and their families all gather together and we tell stories about you. Thank goodness I didn't know about some of the escapades you 3 guys pulled off, I have enough grey hairs as it is. Your guardian angels must have been worn out watching over you all. At least now you can thank your angel for taking such good care of you for 39 years.

Nicholas, Jonathon and Avianna all miss you. You can be very proud of them. They are growing up to be fine children with many of your good qualities, and a few not so good, but they will outgrow those, LeeAnne will make sure of that.

We sent you air-mail messages
today, I hope you received them.

Stephen, Laura and the children, Michael, Tina and the boys, as well as Aunt Sylvia send you their love and prayers as do I mine.

I will 'write' to you again soon. Rest with the knowledge that we keep you always in our hearts and prayers.

All my love,"
your Mom, Dolores Parker of Honesdale, PA

"Im Already Home- Tim McGraw

"You're reading this, my mama's sittin there
Look's like I only got a one way ticket over here
I sure wish I could give you one more kiss
War was just a game we played when we were kids
Well I'm layin down my gun and hanging up my boots
I'm up here with God and we're both watching over you

So lay me down
In that open field out on the edge of town
And know my soul
Is where my mama always prayed that it would go
And if you're reading this
I'm already home

If you're reading this halfway around the world
I won't be there to see the birth of our little girl
I hope she looks like you
I hope she fights like me
And stands up for the innocent and the weak
I'm layin down my gun and hanging up my boots
Tell dad I don't regret that I followed in his shoes

So lay me down
In that open field out on the edge of town
And know my soul
Is where my mama always prayed that it would go
And if you're reading this
I'm already home

If you're reading this, there's gonna come a day
When you'll move on and find someone else, and that's ok
Just remember this
I'm in a better place
Where soldiers live in peace and angels sing Amazing Grace

So lay me down
In that open field out on the edge of town
And know my soul
Is where my mama always prayed that it would go
And if you're reading this

If you're reading this...
I'm already home ""
Erin of Carbondale

"For there is no greater reward than to give one's life for a fellow soldier."
Bill Fiaccone of Oklahoma City, OK

"Artist/Band: McGraw Tim
Lyrics for Song: My Old Friend
Lyrics for Album: Live Like You Were Dying
My old friend, I recall
The time we had are hanging on my wall
I wouldn't trade them for gold
Cause they laugh and they cry me and
somehow sanctify me
And they're woven in the stories I have told
until again

My old friend I apologize
For the years that have passed since the
last time you and I
Dusted off those memories
But the runnin' and the races and the
people and the places
there was always somewhere else i had to be
And time gets thin my old friend

Don't know why, don't know why
Don't know why, don't know why

My old friend this song's for you
Cause a few simple verses was the least that I could do
To tell the world that you were here
And the love and the laughter will live on long after
All the sadness and the tears
We'll meet again, my old friend

Goodbye, Goodbye
Goodbye, Goodbye

My old friend"
steve p of florida

"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-o9aCoeGoI"
steve of florida

"LeAnn,
I know it is hard but I am sure that you know George is always with You.."
Stephen Prebich of Florida

"To George's family:
I served with George in Carbondale from 1997 to 2000 with the 1/109th. I remember him as a bright and dedicated individual; one of those guys you would always want to have on your side. I am sorry for your loss, although I must say that your loss is also a loss for all of us."
Tim Grier of Wilkes-Barre, PA

"Hello again Dearest George, Here it is Easter Sunday 2007. We woke up this morning and it's all white outside. It looks as if we were about to celebrate Christmas.
We miss you and the excitement you created hiding all the eggs for the children, in fact I think you had more fun about it all than they did.

We are all missing you so very much. Not a day goes by that something happens and we remember all the goofy things we did together.

I will 'speak' to you again soon. Know that we are all safe in your protective arms. We love you and miss you. Love to you and all your buddies, I know you hear our prayers.

All my love, now and forever, Mom"
Dolores of Honesdale, PA

"To the family of:George A. Pugliese I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"

"Hi George,

Well, it's been over a year and we're all missing you even more today than we were in the beginning. As I promised you, I check in on Lee Anne and the kids every now and then. Your little Avianna was over the house the other day on her birthday, and she stayed for dinner. Every time she comes in she looks up at your picture that I have on my desk hutch and she just smiles at her daddy. As you know, I've had the honor of being with your family at several functions over the past 13 months. Most recently today, we went to the Carbondale Area School for the Veterans Day Assembly. There wasn't very many dry eyes in the audience when they heard my daughter Erin's short speech on how this war deeply hurt your family and friends. It was also well noted when you did your magic today when your picture mysteriously disappeared from the power point presentation. When Mr. Chesnick tried to apologize for it, I told him that it was ok, because George did that anyway. I explained to him how you make your continued presence known every single day. I told him about all of the strange things that happened while we were remodeling your house. Lee Anne continues to be very brave by attending ceremonies in your honor. Although it hurts, I think it's also comforting to her when she finds out how much deep respect there is out there for you, and how great of an impact you had on people during your short life. Sheri and Steve have been the pillars of strength for Lee Anne. If it weren't for those two I'd be really worried about the future, but with them in her life, Lee Anne will be ok. It's going to be tough for her and the kids, but they'll be ok. The boys seem to be doing alright. They look more and more like you every time I see them. I took Nick on the memorial Motorcycle Ride that SCI Dallas had in your honor, and he loved it. He's really a great kid, and I know you're proud of him. Little Jon is a great kid too. He's still wrapped up in all of his little "Cool Car's" and I'm sure he'll end up being a race car driver or something else that has to do with cars. When I stop over, he nearly empties out the wicker basket full of his hot wheels and as he's picking each one up and showing me, he recites the nomenclature and details of the car. It's amazing how much knowledge a 6 year old can have. Your children are going to be fine pal. Well, I have to go for now. I just wanted to say hello again. With Veterans day just two days away, I would just like to say thank You once again. From one Veteran to another."
Jim of Carbondale, PA.

"To my dear son George, Well, here it is Sept.28th 2006. It is hard to believe that today was one year since you and your crew left this totally mixed up world to find eternal peace.

Your brothers Stephen and Michael are still unforgiving as to the events that lead to today, and my feelings, sometimes, are just as unsettled as theirs. We all understand now, that you followed your feelings and have finally realized that this was your destiny.

If nothing else you have shown me why I can be so proud of your believing in what you were doing.

By your leadership you have shown, and proved to us all that by standing up for our beliefs we can leave our mark on this world. Several of your fellow soldiers have told me how much they admire and respect you for what you have taught them and what you have proved to them by your actions. Your standards were high, but they found that they too could achieve their goals if they wanted them deeply enough. They have told me you will never be forgotten by them.

And so my dear son, today especially, your Aunt Sylvia your brothers and I send this message to you. We love you, are proud of you and you will be forever in our hearts, our thoughts and in our prayers. You have found the peace that we all hope we will finally find.
Until next time.... Love, forever and always. Mom"
Dolores Parker of Honesdale, PA

"My Dearest son George, I never knew how hard it would be to write to you, in a letter, and tell you how much you are loved and missed by us all. I never realized how much of an impact you had on so many people, and how many truly wonderful friends you have. But now here we are, on your 40th birthday and your place at the table is empty of your physical presence but oh, the memories and the stories we can tell. Stephen, Laura, LeeAnne, Sylvia and myself gathered together at St. Thomas' and celebrated your birthday complete with a small cake. I hope the messages we sent to you via 'air mail' find you content in your new life. Never a day passes that something happens to remind us of what wonderful times we had together. You are never really far away. I hope you understand that, even though you left us unexpectly we know that this what you believed in, this was your destiny and you will never be second-guessed. I am so very PROUD that my son stood up for what he believed in and ultimately gave his all to prove it. My birthday present to you is a poem which I think you might want to share with all your comrades with you, as it is for you all.

YOUNG FELLOW MY LAD
"Where are you going, Young Fellow My
Lad
On this glittering morn of May?"
"I'm going to join the colours Dad;
They're looking for men they Say."
"But you're only a boy, Young Fellow
My Lad;
You aren't obliged to go."
"I'm seventeen and a quarter, Dad,
And ever so strong you know."

"So you're off to France, Young Fellow
My Lad,
And you're looking so fit and bright."
"I'm terribly sorry to leave you Dad,
But I feel that I'm doing right."
"God bless you and keep you, Young
Fellow My Lad,
You're all of my life you know."
"Don't worry, I'll soon be back, dear
Dad,
And I'm awfully proud to go."

'Why don't you write, Young Fellow My Lad?
I watch for the post each day;
And I miss you so,
And I'm awfully sad,
And it's months since you went away.
And I've had the fire in the parlor lit,
And I'm keeping it burning bright
Till my boy comes home, and here I sit
Into the quiet night."

"What is the matter, Young Fellow My Lad?
No letter again today.
And why did the postman look so sad,
And sigh as he turned away?
I hear them tell that we've gained new ground,
But a terrible price we've paid:
God grant, my boy, that you're safe and sound;
But oh I'm afraid, afraid."

"They've told me the truth, "Young Fellow My Lad:
You'll never come home again:
(Oh God! The dreams and the dreams I've had,
And the hopes I've nursed in vain!)
For you passed in the night, Young Fellow My Lad,
And you've proved in the cruel test
Of the screaming shell and the battle hell
That my boy was one of the best."

"So you'll live, you,ll live, Young Fellow My Lad,
In tne gleam of the evening star,
In the wood-note wild and the laugh of the child,
In all sweet things that are.
And you'll never die, my wonderful boy,
While life is noble and true;
For all our beauty and hope and joy
We will own to our lads like you."

I could never find words like these to say it any better. Know that we will always look up to you and at you and know that you are looking down on us and keeping us safe until we can all be together with you.
I hope you and Julie are once again together and she has crossed The Rainbow Bridge with you.

And so, my son, I hope your first birthday with the angels has proved to you that you can spread your wings and soar.
All my love always and forever,"
Your Mom of Honesdale, PA

"George,

I've written to Lee Anne and the kids on this site before, but now I'm finally ready to write to you. I'm almost 44 years old my friend, and I've believed in God since I was a small child. I must tell you though, there have been times that I had my doubts. With all of the pain, suffering, and destruction in this world, it makes a person wonder sometimes. But I'll tell you one thing my friend, I'll never doubt anything like that again. you know that we're working at the house. I know that you wanted to remodel the house by yourself, but that can't happen now. I know that you're there though. It's really crazy George. I know that you are with us every single day. We all do. As you know, the guys that are working on the house spend the whole day talking about you, and how you layed everything out for us. Everything was preplotted right down to the last detail. Your Bird (Georgie) even called me a Jack A** in your honor. We all know that Jack ** was your favorite saying for your devilish friends. The day before you left we spoke for about fifteen minutes, and I will Never forget that conversation even if I live to be a hundred years old. One of the things that you asked me was to look out for your family while you were gone, and of course, I told you that I would. Well, You were only gone for a few months when I saw the Notification Detail driving down the street. I just happened to be in the yard, and as soon as they drove past the house, I knew it was going to be a terrible day for someone. Then, they drove past your house and stopped. The sedan turned down the street and pulled in. George, I watched them for a long time that day, and prayed that They weren't looking for your address, but they were. Once Steve came with Lee Anne a few minutes later, it turned out to be a disaster. Well pal, it's all a Blurr after that. I see the kids every single day, I love them all like they are my own. and they are an exact mirror image of you. All three of those kids are so precious. Avi, Jon, and Nick all love you and they all ask for you every day. I promise you buddy that we will never forget you or your family. I am the friend that will never fade. Sua Sponte My Friend.

Jim"
Jim of Carbondale PA

"my name is Cassidy and i am a volunteer for the Illinois Motorcycle Freedom Run. We are a group of people that have built a memorial wall in Marsielles Illinois for all the fallen soldiers in Mideast conflicts since Beriut. Your loved one's name will be permenently added to this wall. For any further information visit our website www.ilfreedomrun.org please e-mail me at me1196@aol.com to let me know that you have recived this message. If you decide to come to this memorial on June 19th, 2006, you will recieve VIP seating and treatment for the cermonies that day. ALL OUR WELCOMING TO HONOR OUR FALLEN SOLDIERS
**Cassidy"
Cassidy of Brookfield/ILL/red,white,blue

"George, Not a second goes by without me missing you. You were the kindest most loving man I have ever known. You made my sister the happiest women on earth, and blessed us with three beautiful children. You were the greatest father I have ever known. You have left such an impact on your children, I see you in them every day and know you are so proud of them. I can not imagine life without you and it hurts each day you are are not in our lives, but I know I can talk to you everyday, and I do. Knowing you can hear me gets me thru such heartache. I want you to know I love you very much, and will do all I can to take care of your children and my sister. I hope someday I can be half of the person you were and are. You will always remain in my heart, my prayers, and my thoughts. I promise you I will learn each day from all the memories we have shared as a family, and I hope that will make me a better person. Thank you for being the best "brother" in law and friend anyone could every ask for. I love you my dear brother. Until we meet again...."
sheri of pleasant mount

"Síocháin leat go deo
Peace be with you forever"
Mack of Blakely,Pa

"SSG Pugliese,
I was under you only for a little while back when I was just a private, and I still remember the things that you taught me. After the transition of the battalion, we both ended up in separate Companys, but I still made it a point to talk to you when I saw you. You were an outstanding NCO and Leader and from what I hear, you were a great father and husband who was loved by your wife and children. It's been 4 months and I still think about you everyday. Now, I'm an NCO myself and I hope someday to be a great leader like you. You will not be forgotten, George. I am in your debt. We all are. Miss you."
G2580 of Al Anbar Providence, Iraq

"George: You are a great man. Thank you for your service to our country and every one of us. We will never forget you and we will take care of your family in any way we can. Rest easy in the Lord's presence. Until we all meet again. Lee Ann: There are no words to express our sorrow to you. May God bless you and your children. Our hearts and prayers are with you."
Ken and Marie Finley of Peckville, PA

"I have known George for many years. I remember my first drill in Carbondale mostly everyone just walked by because I was just the new guy. Not George he stopped shook my hand and thanked me for joining. He always thought of others before himself. I never got the chance to know George outside of the military but I still think of him as a dear friend. God bless you George you will be missed."
SPC> Christopher Urda of Jermyn, Pa

"i didnt know george but i just wanted to let the family know my heart and prayers are with them and im very proud of him even if i didnt know him

god bless"
sharon delaney of susquehanna pa usa

"As a civilian Lieutenant of George at his place of employ, State Correctional Institution at Waymart, Pa., a state prison, I feel I am not as worthy as those that are of true military rank as George was. However, even though I supervised him he still taught me to keep a smile no matter what. And alas, because of his demise, he has taught me to not be afraid when the time comes for me, and everyone, when the Supreme Being bestows his hand to guide us home. George led. I led. But we all follow in the path of The All Mighty for He shows us "the right way." God bless you George. My subordinate yes, but even more so, my friend.
And to George's family. I am honored to have known George for he was a true professional. May God bless you and your family. SCI Waymart will watch over you."
WILLIAM VARGAS of Peckville, Pa. U.S.A.

"to the Pugliese Family

it was hard the day that we learned about five more George, dan, eric, oliver,and lee. but it was not any easier the guys that are not with them that are in al asad were very emotional and could hardly live the day we got the news. the hole day and the whole next month was very difficult wondering what was going to happen next. i just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart of the support that you and all the familes have given to us i know your fallen would have wanted it that way. george was a great man threw all of the eight years i have served in the PAARNG with him a great man never lose faith it will help in the long run. god speed and god bless. and we are awhting the retun of C co home saftly see you all then thank you"
SGT Brian Delaney of Al Asad Air Base Iraq

"To Lee Anne and the children,

I don't feel as though I am worthy of speaking in public of George, but on the day before he deployed he stopped in front of my house and we talked for only a few minutes. That day, he was drivng the white van. He thanked me and my son for shoveling the snow while he was dployed in Bosnia the year prior, and he asked me to do the same thing while he was in Iraq. He also asked me to look out for his family while he was gone. He asked me to wear a National Guard Bracelet for him while he was gone. I promised him on that day that I would do that. I am still waring that bracelet, because I'm not very sure what I should do with it. As you know, we ordered personalized bracelets for George, but I don't know how to deal with the one that George asked me to wear for him. I will never take it off until you or Sherri or Steve tell me to. I'll never take it off.

jim"
Jim McHale of Carbondale

""GEORGE".. I would like to say THANK YOU for everything you have done for our country. I really never met you but I heard lots about you. My fiancee thinks the world of you and were like his brother. He is going to miss you! But, even though we never met, I feel like we did and I lost my best friend. You will always be remembered in my heart and in Brian's heart. WE MISS YOU GEORGE AND THANKS AGAIN MY HERO!
"LEEANNE".. I am sorry about your lost. You are a great woman and should be proud of your husband.. which I know you are. I am proud of him and every other soldier in the US Forces especially my own. Brian truly misses George and we will always remember. Please know if you EVER need anything.. We are here.. We love you"
Amy Anderson (Rinker) of Scranton Pa

"George ~

“Thank you” for 10 amazing years. We always believed in destiny and right now I do not understand but someday when we are together again you can explain why this happened. I am so thankful of the wonderful memories we shared and the future we planned. The day you left you took a part of me and left me a part of you ~ together as one I promise to live our dreams with you right beside me. I know you know how much I love you and I know how much you love me ~ I am who I am because you loved me! Nicholas, Jonathon & Avianna will always remember you and love you because you are the BEST Daddy and you touched their lives deeply in the short time you were able to spend with them and now you will remain the voice of goodness in their heads as well as their guardian angel. Not a day goes by without you in it ~ you are and always will be my everything ~ I love and miss you MUCH Sweetheart!

All my love now & into eternity when we can continue where we left off~

Your forever devoted loving wife ~ Lee Anne"
Mrs George Pugliese of PA

"George as always you are leading the way for the rest of us.Leaving an example for us to follow.Thanks George"
J.McElroy of Blakely,Pa

"Dear George,
Hearing what has happened saddened me more than any news I've ever heard. Losing you will really be a test for me. What you brought to all of us was more than a meaning of what life is & the way it should be lived. The last few weeks have shown just how much you touched everyone you've known in your own way. To me you will always be the GREATEST example of a human being. Not just MY BROTHER, a loving caring friend, father & uncle, but an inspiration to anyone who put on an American Servicemans uniform. I will always have nothing but the highest regards for you, because you made a sacrifice to all without thinking of yourself for what you believed in. You will always be MY HERO & I'll always love your memory & will keep it everyday close to my heart. SFC GEORGE A PUGLIESE you are a real AMERICAN HERO!! THE HEARTBEAT OF AMERICA! I'll never let anyone forget or forsake what you've done. I'll miss you dearly. Your loving Brother,"
Michael Pugliese of Kingston NY

"GEORGE PUGLIESE WAS A PROFESSIONAL IN ALL HE DID! A GREAT SOLDIER AND CORRECTIONS OFFICER! AND A WONDERFUL DEDICATED FAMILY MAN AND AMERICAN! HE IS DEARLY MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM! WE ARE ALL POORER FOR HAVING LOST HIM! BUT RICHER FOR HAVING KNOWN HIM! MAY GOD BLESS HIM AND HIS FAMILY!!!"
w. gallagher of scranton pa.

"LeeAnn and Delores, I know that nothing any one says or does will stop the pain of losing George. I also understand the pain of a mothers heart losing her son. When they told us of Billy being killed 10 days earlier in Iraq I thought my world had come to an end...when they had to come back to us on the day of Billy's viewing to tell us of George, Lee, Eric, Oliver, and Dan I thought for sure I would give my life for anyone of them. The truth of the matter is...they gave their lives for us and for America...I told my son not to come home a hero ..just come home...well...as God would have it...he came home...to the loving arms of his heavenly father and a hero to America and all that stands for. I know that you all ache to hold George as much as I do to hold Billy...and that if I could have but one more moment I would take it just as you would...but our moments have come to an end and now we have our memories to carry us through...and from this moment on we will have tears of pain and smiles of happy memories..but they know what is on our minds and hearts and they are in perfect peace...oh how I long to be in perfect peace with them but God is never wrong and never makes mistakes so I will have to wait until he calls my name on his roll call. If either one of you ever need anything you know how to get ahold of me...Billy would want me to be there for all of you..."
Judy Evans of Hallstead PA

"Your family is constantly in my thoughts and prayers. We will never forget that fateful day, but now our heroes are together for eternity."
Kim Arnold, wife of SSG Daniel Arnold of Montrose PA

"George,
I heard a song the other day by Tim McGraw called "My Old Friend" and thought of you. I will never forget you old friend. Thanks to all the people who responded. Dolores, I am not sure if you remember me Steve Prebich. George and I were great friends a few years back. I met you a few times at your home in Honesdale. You are 100% correct when you said it. George was the most decent human being I have ever known and by far the best soldier. God Bless you for raising such a great man and God bless his wife and kids."
SFC Steve Prebich of Riverview, Fl

"To the Pugliese family,
We honor and will Always Remember the sacrifice that GEORGE has made serving our great country. He is truly an American Hero and we celebrate his life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
GEORGE - We are grateful for your courage and sacrifice in the service of our country. Gods Speed young Soldier, and may the Angels surround your family as they try to heal.
From a grateful family of a US Army Soldier, from the 101st AVN Regt, Ft. Campbell, now serving in Iraq 10-20-05."
---The Erwin Family of Oregon, United States of America

"George was an Honorable Man, and I personally know, that George was a man of his word and lived by that. His family has alot to be proud of.George is one of the few, who can say they lived an honest life and did all that he could for everyone else. I'll miss you my friend."
VW of DC

"Thoughts and Prayers go out to the Pugliese Family. Mr. Pugliese Paid the Ultimate Sacrifice for all of us.
May he Rest in Peace and May the perpetual light shine upon him forever.

THE FINAL INSPECTION

The soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, you soldier,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?"

The soldier squared his shoulders and said,
"No, Lord, I guess I ain't.
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime,
When the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand.

There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod.
As the soldier waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, you soldier,
You've borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell.""
Kathy of Forest City, PA

"I was truly saddened to hear of George's death. I first met George in the summer of 1986 when he moved to Honesdale from Queens - he was the kindest most gentle person I had ever met. I can remember how excited he was when he joined the Army - he could not wait to serve his country. He is a true hero. My thoughts and prayers are with his entire family. May your wonderful memories of such a special person console you during this difficult time."
Stacey (Denfield) Taranto...StaceyT69@aol.com of Staten Island, NY

"My nephew, SPC Oliver Brown, was with your brave soldier on that last mission. PLease know that our family mourns your loss and grieves the passing of such honorable and noble men. May God be with us all and strengthen us in the days ahead."
Darci (Brown) Baird of Athens, Pa

"I would like to let you know how sorry I am for your lose. I met George when he first came to Honesdale with his family. He was an outstanding friend and one hell of an individual. I will miss him alot. I had scene George on and off because I moved to Wash, DC. My heart goes out to all his family."
Vinny Witkowski of Wash, DC.

"To the Pugliese family, I had the great honor and privelege of knowing George since 1991. He was not only a GREAT AMERICAN but he was a GREAT FRIEND, and above all i'm sure a GREAT FATHER! The world has lost a beautiful person but has gained a beautiful angel. My prayers will be with you and I will carry George forever in my heart. God Bless You."
Luke A. Mushensky Sr. of Simpson, PA USA

"Dear Pugliese Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Though I did not know him personally, I know that he helped my father-in-law, SSGT Rich Williams, to safety when he was injured just a few days before. For that, my family will be eternally grateful. Our prayers are with your family."
Patience Williams of Binghamton, NY

"To the pugliese family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. May God be with you all. My thoughts and prayers will always be with you. George will always be remembered. God Bless."
Teresa Hall, Sykes of Tillson,NY

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness,
and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief.
Our nations HERO, George will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
God Bless you ALWAYS.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Dearest George, This is the only way now that I can let the world know how proud I am of you. You followed your desire to be a U.S. soldier and serve your country. You are the most decent and honorable person anyone could possibly know. The fact that you are my son makes it even more painful to part with you, but I know that you have gone to a far better place to wait for me and all your family. You will remain forever in my heart and in my prayers.
God bless you and keep you.
Love for always and forever, your mother"
Dolores Parker of Honesdale, Pa.

"TO THE PUGLIESE FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. WE ARE DEEPLY SADDEN BY THE NEWS! OUR HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH GEORGE AND YOUR FAMILY. LOST OUR SON LAST YEAR IN BALAD,IRAQ. AN MY TEARS TILL FLOW DOWN MY CHEEKS. TODAY FOR GEORGE AS IT DID FOR MY SON AND ALL OUR FALLEN. GEORGE THANKM YOU FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY. AN FOE BEING A BROTHER, THAT SPECIAL BOND OF BROTHERS'S. TO ALWAYS WATCH AND PROTECT ONE ANOTHER. GEORGE YOU ARE SOMEONE'S SOMEONE AND SOMEONE TO OUR FAMILY. YOU HAVE NOT DIED IN VAIN. YOU ARE A HERO! TO YOUR FAMILY REACH OUT TO YOUR COOMMUNITY AND YOUR POLITICAL LEADERS. REQUEST A STREET BE NAMED IN GEORGE'S HONOR. THIS IS NOT ASKING TO MUCH FROM THE COMMUNITY,COUNTY, STATE AND OUR COUNTRY. GEORGE WAS UNSELFISH TO RISK EVERYHTING FOR ALL OF AMERICA. AN NOW IT'S TIME AMERICA STEP UP TO PLATE FOR GEORGE! GEORGE YOU HAVE TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. YOU WILL NEVER EVER BE FORGOTTEN. FOR ALL THOSE HEARTS YOU HAVE TOUCHED. ALL HAVE VERY FOND MEORIES THAT YOU SHARED TOGETHER. AN YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY, AND TOMORROW AND FOREVER! GOD BLESS!"
leonard t wahl of VALLEY STREAM NY

"Thank you George Pugliese, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. George Pugliese:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless George for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. George Pugliese:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of George, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia