In Loving Memory of
Joseph F. Fatigato, Sr.July 23, 1921 - May 16, 2010
Every day we lose more and more American Heroes as those who stood for us and served in WWII go to their rest. On May 20th, 2010, I had the HONOR of being a part of a Patriot Guard Riders flag stand and escort...paying tribute to Joseph Fatigato, a WWII Hero who left us.
Joseph served in the United States Army during WWII, was as a Master Sergeant and served in the Philippines from from 1944 to 1946.
"Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not here, I do not sleep,
I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle Autumn rain,
When you awaken in the mornings hush, I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight,
I am the soft stars that shine at night,
Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there, I did not die."
(Unfortunately, I forgot both my camera and my phone/camera, so I wasn't able to properly document this ride with photos. Thankfully, fellow guard rider, Georgiana, had her phone and managed to take a couple photos to send me.)
The funeral procession arrived at St. Bernardine Catholic Church where the Patriot Guard held a flag stand in Joe's honor.
Dian [me] & Trisha standing in honor.
Naylene stands with others as her husband, Dave, a Vietnam vet (not pictured) handles folding the American Flag prior to Joseph's entry into the church and afterwards as we escort Joe to his final rest.
A beautiful grotto outside the side of the church, open to all who care to stop and pray.
A police escort, followed by the Patriot Guard, lead the funeral procession to Joseph's final resting place at Queen of Heaven Cemetery. A short, final ceremony included military honors for this WWII hero.
Rest in Peace, Joseph, and THANK YOU for your brave service to our country!
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To Dian's PGR Mission page.
