Posted on 01/30/2005 11:48:22 PM PST by kattracks
HE DIED too soon. On the eve of Iraq's historic free election, Francis Obaji was laid to rest in the frigid ground of Arlington National Cemetery. Ten days earlier, on Jan. 19, Francis was killed in an enemy ambush in Baghdad. Ten days.
[snip]
At the mere suggestion that his son's passing might be for naught, Francis' heartbroken father, Cyril, did something extraordinary. He looked up from his tears. And he laughed. "Not at all," he said with a smile.
"He died for freedom," Francis' uncle, Kingsley Obaji, told me unwaveringly.
"He died doing what he believed in," said Kingsley.
"He was one of thousands of men and women who collectively made a difference in Iraq. There is no doubt in my mind. "He died fighting for freedom. He believed in freedom."
[snip]
Francis was studying microbiology at Staten Island University, with an eye toward entering medical school, when 9/11 changed him.
On that awful morning, he was waiting for the ferry in lower Manhattan, and had a front-row view of the carnage. He walked nearly all the way through Brooklyn, before finding a ride back to Queens. In that time, everything he thought he lived for took a turn.
[snip]
Francis joined the National Guard in 2003, after the United States invaded Iraq. He did not tell his family, for he was certain they would object to him interrupting his studies. But he was determined to go to Iraq.
Four months ago, he shipped out to Baghdad with the "Fighting 69th," a unit that has suffered more than its share of losses.
[snip]
When he last spoke to his parents, Francis Obaji said he expected to be home by Easter.
Now he is home.
Too soon.
(Excerpt) Read more at nypost.com ...
God bless and keep Francis Obaji and his family.
I salute a job well done. My heart, pain, and prayers go out to those who love and miss him. Thank you for all that you have given, and to this brave soul for giving his life so others may enjoy the freedom we take for granted every day.
Proud vet
I submit that they are far better Americans than many a native-born heap of dung.
-ccm
A son to be proud of!
Thank you Francis Obaji for your service to America and ultimate sacrifice, GOD bless, and rest in peace.
How is that extraordinary? Wouldn't any proud, loving parent react the same? On second thought, it is extraordinary. I wouldn't have been so kind to the cold heartless b@st@rd that suggested my son's sacrifice was for naught.
In WWII ... My father was part of the 69th Infantry
God Bless Francis Obaji and his family ... my prayers are with them
Thank you, Francis Obaji! And the many more who serve (and die) like you! We owe you a debt we cannot possibly repay!
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