**Remembering Army Specialist Wilfredo Perez Jr. (1978-2003)**
On a summer day in 2003, the world lost a courageous soul, Army Specialist Wilfredo Perez Jr., who selflessly gave his life in service to his country during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Born on December 19, 1978, in Brooklyn, New York, Wilfredo, affectionately known as “Jr.”, touched the lives of many through his infectious smile, unwavering dedication to family, and commitment to his community.
#### Early Years and Family
Wilfredo Perez Jr. spent his formative years between Queens, New York, and Norwalk, Connecticut, where his family moved during his adolescence. From a young age, Jr. displayed a profound sense of responsibility and compassion, caring for his great-aunt Dawn and grandmother Herminia, while supporting his sister Lisa Marie with unwavering love and devotion.
#### Service and Sacrifice
At 23, inspired by the events of September 11, 2001, Wilfredo enlisted in the U.S. Army, proudly wearing the uniform he cherished. His journey led him through rigorous training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and Fort Hood, Texas, before being deployed to Iraq in the winter of 2002. Tragically, on July 26, 2003, while guarding a children’s hospital in Baqubah, Iraq, Wilfredo Perez Jr., alongside Sgt. Daniel K. Methvin and Spc. Jonathan P. Barnes, made the ultimate sacrifice in a grenade attack.
#### Legacy and Commemoration
Wilfredo’s legacy extends beyond his military service. He was known for his passion for handball, his love for adventure at Six Flags and Action Park, and his enjoyment of skiing, golf, and motorcycle rides. His infectious spirit and genuine kindness left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
In recognition of his service and sacrifice, the handball courts at Glendale’s Mafera Park were renamed in his honor, reflecting his deep connection to the community and his enduring legacy. His family continues to honor his memory through the Specialist Wilfredo Perez Jr. Scholarship Fund, supporting students at Norwalk High School and Brien McMahon High School in pursuing their educational aspirations.
#### Final Tribute
The memorial service held at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Norwalk, Connecticut, underscored Wilfredo’s impact on his community and beyond. Eulogies from family members, local officials, and veterans highlighted his bravery, dedication to duty, and love for his fellow soldiers and children.
As we reflect on Wilfredo Perez Jr.’s life, we are reminded of his selflessness, courage, and the enduring impact of his service. His memory lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who cherish freedom and honor those who defend it.
Wilfredo Perez Jr. will forever be remembered as a hero who gave everything for his country and community, leaving behind a legacy of service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones.
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I am not a veteran. I am a member of the Civil Air Patrol, the United States Air Force Auxiliary. But in 1991, personal loss brought me to a place I never left.
Over two decades later, that loss led me to the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut, where I took on the coordination of Wreaths Across America — which grew into the largest and fastest growing veterans program in the state. I didn’t do it for recognition. I did it for them.
In 2016 I founded the Connecticut Veterans Bulletin. Not because I served, but because I believe those who did deserve to be honored, connected, and kept alive.
Twenty-two veterans die by suicide every day. I knew about that number before it became a hashtag. I knew it personally, long before anyone was talking about it.
This publication exists because that number is unacceptable. Because every veteran in Connecticut deserves to know someone gives a damn.
That someone is me.
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