Pfc. Joseph J. Anzack Jr., our slain kidnapped soldier in Iraq, was one soldier in the most astounding military in the history of humankind–a volunteer force made up of the sons and daughters of American families. He is now remembered, and honored, by one of his friends, another young man who has already served this nation, and has pledged to do so again in the name of his murdered buddy. There are many reasons why I love us, but this truly exemplifies how American families continue to raise quiet, decent heroes.
Soldier slain in Iraq joined Army to ‘keep us free’
In Torrance, a childhood friend of Pfc. Joseph Anzack’s vows to reenlist to honor him.
At 11 a.m. Thursday, Richard Geraldo, 19, added two candles to a memorial to his childhood friend Pfc. Joseph J. Anzack Jr. that was created about midnight on the steps of the main entrance to South High School in Torrance.
“I set some candles down with a vow: I’m sorry I couldn’t be there, Joe, but I’ll make it up to you by going over there and doing your job.” Geraldo, who was recently discharged from the Marine Corps because of a medical problem, said he was working with a recruiter to get back into the Marines as soon as possible…
Geraldo said that he and Anzack parted ways in the ninth grade. But, he said, “I joined the military for the same reasons he did — to keep us free.”
The memorial, with American flags, dozens of candles and bouquets of flowers surrounds a sign that reads: “We love and miss you, Joe Anzack. You’re our hero.”
My condolences to the Anzack family. You and Joseph are in my prayers.