| Jorge was 24 yrs. old and already scene more than his share of war. Several years ago, he joined the Army and served honorably with the 10th Mountain Division in Afghanistan. Upon returning home from tour, Jorge joined the California National Guard. His battalion, based in Modesto, was nicknamed the NightStalkers. He served as and infantry rifleman and communications specialist. Major K described SPC. Estrada as "the total package; tough, disciplined, cheerful, a good marksman....He made everyone around him better, just by example...He was the consummate quiet professional...never complained. Julio Rivera had this to say, "I was SPC Estrada's best friend and he was the godfather of my daughter. I can't believe he is gone. He would call me often from Iraq. Distance separated us for the past two years, but we remained close friends through it all, and he will remain in my heart forever. The worst of all things, he was safer at war then at home." SPC Estrada was married in Dec. and he was home on emergency leave to be with his wife for the birth of her second child. His wife had an older daughter from a previous relationship with Fabian Urrea. Jorge was raising the girl as his own. He was a rare man who did the right and manly thing by his wife, children, and his country. For this kind of honor there is no medal, only crayon drawings stuck on the refidgerator doors. But that is something that "Dad"/ Jorge Estrada will never know. At 7:40am Thursday, June 9, 2005, in the parking lot of his apartmen complex, Jorge Estrada's life was abruply ended. Three bullets fired by Fabian Cayetano Urrea, 19, slammed into Jorge Estrada's chest and took the life of a true American Hero. |
