News Search

178th Supports Return of fallen hero

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Joseph R. Stahl
  • 178th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
     Hundreds of mourners turned out for a fallen comrade ceremony for Cpl. Paul Zanowick at Wright- Patterson Air Force Base June 9.

Cpl. Zanowick was killed in Afghanistan June 3 as a result of enemy fire.

     Many of the attendees were Wright-Patterson AFB employees as well as military service representatives to include 20 178th Fighter Wing unit members and Cpl. Zanowick's boyhood Boy Scout troop.

     "Many times we struggle with what we could possibly say or do to help the family during their time of loss. No one understands more than those who wear the uniform in support of our great country the price that has been paid,-." said Chief Master Sgt. Ottis Lemaster, 178 FW Command Chief. "By standing next to one another in uniform we show the family our sorrow and gratitude for the life that has been given to preserve our liberties and freedom."

     Staff Sgt. Benjamin Harper, 178th Communications Flight said, "It is of utmost importance to attend events of this nature to honor our fallen brothers' and sisters' lives and selfless service. These commendable service members willingly laid down their lives to extend freedom to all Americans and to combat terrorism." Sgt Harper continued, "Our presence at memorial services is the least that we can do to honor their sacrifice, celebrate their life and heroism, and express our deepest empathy to the loved ones they leave behind."
    
      Cpl. Zanowick is a graduate of Miamisburg High School and leaves behind a wife and son. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 4th marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, 1 Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif. This was his second deployment.