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Fallen Guam Soldier Returns Home

Saturday: April 05, 2008

(Pacific Dailys News)

Dozens of people have gathered in Guam to welcome fallen soldier Staff Sgt. Joseph Gamboa home for the last time reports the Pacific Daily News.

Gamboa was killed in Iraq last week when he came under indirect fire. The staff sergeant was the 25th from the region to die in the War on Terror.

He returned home yesterday evening just after 6 p.m. to a hero's welcome at the A.B. Won Pat Guam International Airport.

The casket, dressed with an American flag, was pulled from the hearse to the sound of ukulele music and voices raised in song.

"Tonight we come together as a community, united to stand with the loved ones of a brave soldier. It is with great honor and deep respect that we welcome home Army Staff Sgt. Joseph Gamboa, a son of Guam and a hero of our nation." Governor Felix Camacho said.

Final arrangements have yet to be made for Joseph Gamboa. In the meantime, the family continues to pray nightly rosaries at their home in Dededo.

http://www.guampdn.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080405/NEWS01/804050320/1002