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View a eulogy for Paul Wenceslaus Pena, USMA '04, who passed away on January 19, 2010.

Paul Wenceslaus Pena

West Point, 2004

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Dan on January 23, 2010:

As I read the eulogies offered by friends and comrades of Capt Pena, as the father of a West Point cadet I read them prospectively through the lens of my sons future. I can only imagine the pain - and the pride - that you must feel. I am left wondering, "How does one fathom the enormity of those two emotions at once?"

I also review Capt Pena's life well-lived, the honor those who knew him bestow upon him, and I am consoled that my son, like Capt Pena, is called to a greater good. That Capt Pena gave his life during the campaign, Enduring Freedom, is poetic. As long as there are patriots willing to make the sacrifice your son has made, freedom will endure.

I want to be here, in this spiritual place with you, in your son's death that, in the event my son is called upon for similar sacrifice, I might be acquainted with and able to withstand this great burden that you bear. You do not bear it alone. Many of us bear it with you in our prayers for you and your family.

Thank you for raising such a fine young man and soldier.

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