My walk today was dedicated in honor of :
Army SPC Michael S. Weger, Age 30 of Rochester, NY.
KIA Oct. 12, 2004 during Operation Iraqi Freedom
He was assigned to the 20th Engineer Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas
Weger died when an improvised explosive device detonated near his patrol vehicle.
Weger was born in Pascagoula, MS on December 4, 1973. He attended the Oak Grove Schools, Presbyterian Christian School, and the Center for Gifted Studies in Hattiesburg, MS and Westfield High School in Spring, Texas. He later attended North Harris Community College where he studied art and computer graphics art. He moved to the Atlanta, GA area where he became a real estate agent and million dollar producer and then transferred to Charlotte, NC. He joined the Army following the 9-11 World Trade Center attack, fulfilling an earlier desire to enter into military service to his country.
He was a cherished son, brother, friend and support to many, having never met a stranger. In Hattiesburg, he attended Temple Baptist Church, and in Charlotte, NC he joined the Unitarian Church once attended by Thomas Jefferson. In Spring, TX he joined the Boy Scouts and the Junior Engineering and Technical Society, lettered as a member of the Westfield High School Debate Team, and was an avid art student. Michael touched the lives of many of his friends and the soldiers with whom he served in battle. He was a brilliant young man who became proficient in landscaping, animal care, art, cooking, computer skills, guitar, health and nutrition, exercise, leadership, and real estate. He was an inventor and enjoyed independent learning. Additionally, he was an animal lover who owned numerous exotic pets. As a member of the Army, he was proud to be a Sapper (Combat Engineer) and a decorated soldier in Bravo Company. Spec. Michael Weger was awarded both the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his extraordinary service and bravery in battle. Throughout all of his achievements, his most important and cherished role was being a good and active father to his son.
We had a great walk today. I want to thank everyone who honked, waved and saluted in helping me honor this hero.
He will not be forgotten !
