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Jose Alfredo Velez 'Freddy' |
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Engagements: • Iraq War (Operation Iraqi Freedom) (2003 - 2011) |
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Biography: | ||||
Jose Alfredo Velez [Note: Although he is wearing the rank insignia of a Specialist (E-4) and his family grave marker lists his rank as SPC, the Silver Star citation lists his rank as Corporal (E-4). The pay grade for both ranks is the same (E-4) and it is possible that the rank was changed posthumously.] On 4 November 2004, then-Corporal Jose Alfredo Velez was serving with Company A, 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. On that date, when his unit was attacked in Fallujah, Iraq, CPL Velez was killed by a sniper as he stood over wounded comrades in efforts to shield them from enemy fire. CPL Velez’s courageous actions that day earned him, at the cost of his life, the U.S. Army's third highest award for valor, the Silver Star Medal. The body of Corporal Jose Alfredo Velez was escorted home by his brother, Andrew Velez, also a member of the U.S. Army. Less than two years later Andrew Velez was killed in action in Afghanistan. The Velez family of Lubbock is the only family to lose two sons in the Global War on Terrorism. Medals, Awards and Badges Silver Star Medal Silver Star Medal Citation (Synopsis) The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Jose Alfredo "Freddy" Velez, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 4 November 2004. When his unit was attacked in Fallujah, Iraq, Corporal Velez was killed by a sniper as he stood over wounded comrades in efforts to shield them from enemy fire. Corporal Velez's gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. Burial Corporal Jose Alfredo Velez is buried at Resthaven Memorial Park in Lubbock, Lubbock County, TX. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/9927019/jose-alfredo-velez |
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Honoree ID: 4835 | Created by: MHOH |