Posted on 06/02/2007 7:09:28 PM PDT by Wolfstar
Yesterday, a very moving memorial service was held in Torrance, California, for one of our own. Joseph Anzack, Jr., 20, one of the soldiers recently kidnapped in Iraq and found dead a few days later, returned home for the last time. Joe graduated from South High School in Torrance in 2005. His memorial service was held there just two years later.
I'm posting this for two reasons: 1st for the benefit of any California members of FR, to honor one of our own heroes, and 2nd, because of the powerful message that adorned the front door of Joe Anzack's home. Never forget their sacrifice -- and never forget that those for whom young men like Joe have given their lives have more that unites us than divides us.
The door of Joseph Anzack's home is adorned with a yellow ribbon and sign that says, 'United We Stand'.
Link to hometown Daily Breeze newspaper article, and a few quotes:Devin Week, 19, said he was on Anzack's wrestling and swim teams at South High School, and had known him since he was a freshman.
"He wanted to be in the military as long as I've known him," said Week, who met up with the procession in front of Rice Mortuary. "I brought flowers today and said goodbye. Earlier, I was angry at the war. We have no choice but to support it - our good buddies are out there. It's sad that it takes this to make the war real."
Outside South High School, hundreds flooded into the athletic field for the 5:30 p.m. service. Many milled outside, watching from behind a chain-link fence.
Nine-year-old Molly Blank hugged her grandfather, Jim Reinhardt.
"He lived one block from us," said Reinhardt, 79.
David Adams, 21, said Anzack was one class behind him in high school.
"He was a real nice guy, a real intense athlete," Adams said. "Seeing everyone's faces, his dad's face in the limo - it hits pretty hard. I just respect how much he gave for his country."
Joseph Anzack Sr., his former wife Teresa, daughter Casey, and friend DeeDee Madrid see the casket bearing Joe Jr. after its arrival at LAX.
Joe Sr. embraces his former wife, Teresa, and 16-year-old daughter, Casey, as the coffin bearing his son is loaded into a hearse.
His former football coach at South High holds up Joe's football jersey.
Can’t even comment. It’s just so gripping. Seeing the divorced parents embracing over the loss of their son was just so sad. His sister looks so sad too. It’s just awful.
Hero ping.
O, thus be it ever when freemen shall stand,
Between their lov’d homes and the war’s desolation;
Blest with vict’ry and peace, may the heav’n-rescued land
Praise the Pow’r that hath made and preserv’d us as a nation!
Then conquer we must, when our cause is just,
And this be our motto: “In God is our trust”
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
Rest in His eternal peace, Cpl Anzack...
Thank you for posting this.
I hope the family of Cpl. Anzack is comforted by the thoughts and prayers from all who appreciate his service.
J.J.
USAF, Active Duty
Thank you, soldier. I’m grateful for your service and sacrifice. I will not forget you.
Thank you.
When fighting savages, always save the last bullet for yourself.
Rest in peace, brave warrior. Rest in peace.
Words aren’t adequate...God bless, strengthen and comfort his loved ones. Prayers and tears here.
Yeah. We need to all remember this kid.
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