Emily Jazmin Tatum Perez

West Point, 2005

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Cherye Hunter on September 27, 2006:

This morning Lt Emily Perez was honored on the front page of Washington Post. I was saddened by the tragic incident in Iraq that took the life of this beautiful young lady. As I read some of the details of her accomplishments in her short 23 years; I smiled, like a proud mother, and then a tear fell down my face. I wondered why a dedicated, brilliant, talented young lady with so much promise could be ripped from the arms of her Mother and Father. For we know she wanted to stay. We all hear the echo, we hear the cry, saying its not fair, she did not have to die. She had it all, she had the gift. She was flying high, soaring above the rest. But, suddenly she was gone, and has landed in heavens nest. She would have certainly continued to make her mark in history. Perhaps becoming the first highest ranking woman of color in the Army or first female president. But now, she has the distinction of being the first female graduate to be buried at West Point cemetary. Even though its an honor, we would have preferred to acknowledge her with each breath she took, striving to be the best she could be. Her place in the history books will forever reflect her perseverance, vibrance and her thirst for life. I never had the the pleasure and the honor of meeting Emily, but my heart is heavy. For I feel I have lost a daughter and this extraordinary young lady would have been chosen as my mine, if I could have picked one. I have one son, 2004 graduate, and I am proud of him. As parents of sons and daughters on active duty we pray everyday for their safety, and hope it eases our fears. We hope they come home, and we never have to shed a tear. No parent should ever have to bury their child, the ache is too deep. I will pray that Mr and Mrs Perez find peace at this difficult time. Just remember you were blessed to have such a wonderful daughter. She died fighting for her country, and that we all know. You can hold your head up with pride for she was a soldier and stood tall. Now she is soaring, she is your angel above; she will protect you forever in this life with love. With deep regrets, Cherye Hunter, 2004 Parent Virginia

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