Ambassador Speeches

Ambassador Paul A. Trivelli remarks during the Military Honor Ceremony for PFC Roger A. Suarez Gonzalez

December 21, 2006

It is a profound honor for me to be here today with you to honor PFC Roger Alphonso Suarez Gonzalez.

We in the United States Embassy and all of our assigned miltiary personnel in Nicaragua, are deeply saddened by the loss of PFC Roger Suarez and all our fallen Soldiers. 

To the Suarez family our hearts, thoughts, prayers and support go out to you and your entire family during this time of grief and pain.

Today, we ask that all of you remember Roger Suarez, and the rest of our Soldiers and their loved ones, during these stressful times; always being mindful of the sacrifices soldiers and their families make for our nation.

Let me highlight the life and military service of Private First Class Roger Alphonso Suarez Gonzalez as a way to honor his service.

Roger was born in Boaco, Nicaragua on the 8th of May 1984. He moved to the United States and became a United States Citizen. Because of his love for the United States, he decided to serve his country. He enlisted in the United States Army as an infantryman on October 13, 2005 and was later assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division.

His unit deployed to Iraq to defend the United States of America in the Global War on Terrorism.  While serving in Iraq, Private First Class Suarez Gonzalez died in the service of his country on 4 December 2006 in Ramadi, Iraq. During his service in the Army, Roger was decorated for his sevice and his dedication to duty.

His awards include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman's Badge and the Expert Marksmanship Award.

One of the remarkable things about the United States Army is that it is one large family. Today, you can see both Roger's natural family and those of his Army brothers here to honor him. The United States Government and the Army honors all those who have made this ultimate sacrifice. These soldiers are our comrades, our friends, and fellow warriors.

Roger, on behalf of the United States Embassy and its assigned military personnel, we will miss you.

Rest in peace in the beautiful home of your birth, Nicaragua