Joseph R Guerrera

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DUNN, NC, USA U.S. Army PFC, COMPANY C, 2D BATTALION, 325TH INFANTRY REGIMENT, FORT BRAGG, NC 28310 BAGHDAD, IRAQ 10/27/2003

Private Joseph R. Guerrera seemed destined for the Army.

The 20-year-old North Carolina native grew up about 25 miles northeast of Fort Bragg, and always told family and friends he wanted to be in the Army. His biological father, a soldier in the Army as well, died in a helicopter crash when Joseph was four.

Joseph, who enlisted in February 2003 and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, died October 26, 2003 in Baghdad when his vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device.

Joseph believed he could make a difference in Iraq, according to his aunt. “Ever since he was 5 or 6 years old he talked the Army talk,” said his aunt, Debbie Dunn. “We were just so proud of him because he was anxious to go because he felt like he could do some good. He was full of pride to represent his country,” Dunn said. “He wanted to be in the 82nd Airborne.”

Joseph sang in the Calvary Baptist Church choir.

He is survived by his mother, stepfather, four brothers and a sister.

Joseph’s portrait is also located on Poster 6