Emily Jazmin Tatum Perez

West Point, 2005

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Chari Watson on September 26, 2006:

I remember the first time I met Ms. Emily. It was on the soccer field during morning PT. She introduced herself and told me that she hadn't been on station that long. I myself, had gotten to the unit a little after she did. Anyway, we played an aewsome game of ultimate soccer and then we did some sprints. She first stood out to me, because this woman could run!! I think she was the first one down the field and back. All I knew, is that she was fast!! I didn't really see her too much after that until we went over the water. With uncertainty in our hearts, we crossed over into that land wanting and willing to do our part. I started going to service on FOB Duke when time permitted and had my first oppurtunity to hear her sing. I'm sure that I speak for everyone when I say that Emily could SING!! I mean, she had a beautiful voice and it touched my heart when she sang. She quickly stepped up as the choir leader and I automatically knew that I wanted to be a part of that. Without hestitation, that's what I did. Faithfully committing and eager to sing. She always brought beautiful music to sing each week and I remember each and every time she went on mission. I remember each time she went on mission because on those days that we were supposed to rehearse, the choir seemed kinda unorganized without her. Each time she went out, I remember saying to myself, "Man, I'll be glad when Perez gets back tommorrow because we need to get it together". I'm sure that everyone else felt the same way. Whether it was leading a convoy or leading a choir, she was good at what she did. Its funny how she provided leadership in such a simple way. I've had the oppurtunity to sit down at chow with her and listen to her West Point stories. She was very proud of being a USMA graduate, so she always had something to share about her experience there. She was a beautiful person, inside and out. Wonderful smile and a awesome personality to go with it. I guess that's why it's so hard for me to believe that she is gone. My heart hurt so bad the day that I found out about this tragic event. Not only because I had gotten the chance to know her and experience her but also because of her family's love for her and my unit's personal love for one of our own. I know that God allows all things to happen for a reason and I know that we shouldn't question why he does what he does. I know that God takes his best and maybe thats why he decided to take you home. I know that we did what we had to do Emily so that our families can sleep safe at night. I don't think that our military has an award high enough to award you for the ultimate sacrifice that you made. I know that you are looking down saying to us, "Don't cry", but we cry cause we miss you. It pains me so bad to know that you are gone but it comforts me to know that you are in a better place and that I will sing with you again one day. My condolences to her family especially Mrs. Perez. A mother's love for her child is so strong and I know that it is so difficult for you right now. I pray that God will comfort you in your time of sorrow and that he will be with you during this time. Emily, I got the chance to hear about some of the other awesome things you have done in your 23 years on this earth and I'm proud to have served with you!! You are my hero Ma'am! I know that someday I will see you again. Sleep peacefully. Love you like a sister! Chari J. Watson

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