Posted on 07/27/2006 7:45:59 PM PDT by Rte66
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LUBBOCK, Texas -- A Texas family that had already paid a hefty price in the war on terror is in mourning again. Two years after a son was killed in Iraq, their only other son has died in Afghanistan.
Cpl. Jose Velez was killed in 2004 when his unit came under fire in Fallujah. At that point, his brother, Army Spc. Andrew Velez, was given the option of not having to return to combat.
But his father said he wanted to.
This week the family learned Andrew was killed. Their father said that while he feels like his heart has been "pulled out," he adds that he can't be angry.
Andrew Velez leaves a wife and three children, ages 2, 3 and 5.
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Here is a better story - more details and a photo:
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory?id=2241034
May the brothers RIP ... and God bless the parents.
Did you see this part of the story:
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After his death, Jose Velez was awarded two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star and a Silver Star. But burglars stole them all from his parents' home in June.
" ... After his death, Jose Velez was awarded two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star and a Silver Star. But burglars stole them all from his parents' home in June.On Monday, the medals were replaced, thanks to the assistance of U.S. Rep. Randy Neugebauer, Roy Velez said. "And today at 12:30 I learned my other son was killed in action," he said late Tuesday.
Andrew Velez's survivors include his wife, Veronica Velez; a daughter, Jasmine Jade, 5; and two sons, Jordan Davis, 3, and Jacob Andrew, 2. ..."
Yeah, gmta. I was busy copying that to post it. Thanks for emphasizing it. Bears repeating.
Praying for the Velez family.
God bless Jose and Andrew Velez for making the ultimate sacrifice. This American salutes you for protecting our freedom. You will not be forgotten.
This one hurts.
May God strengthen and lift up these parents, the children, and their extended families.
Dear G-d have mercy on their souls and their family.
This is just heartbreaking.God bless these sons and thier family.
It does. The brothers sounded like outstanding young men. Their parents' pain is unimaginable.
"I can't be angry. I feel like my heart's been pulled out," Roy Velez said Tuesday. "We've done what the Lord allowed us to do for our country."
WOW
God bless them. They raised fine sons, and I'm truly humbled by their sacrifice.
He's a better person than I could dream of being.
Oh man. I hope this thread doesn't die.
God bless this family. This is one example of what makes America great, as well as what makes humanity great.
Sort of reminds you of "Saving Private Ryan" doesn't it?
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