Ronnie J. Pallares

Spc. Ronnie J. Pallares, 19, of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., died Oct. 23 in Andar district, Ghazni, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 27th Engineer Battalion, Fort Bragg, N.C.

Ronnie Pallares was known for his friendly attitude and the proficiency with which he did his work. He helped newer soldiers overcome the initial fear of being in a war zone and was loved by his leaders, who thought his promotion to specialist would only be the beginning of a long career and successful life. 

Ronnie Pallares enlisted in 2008 and arrived at Fort Bragg in February 2009, when he was assigned to the 57th Sapper Co. This was his first deployment. 

Ronnie Pallares' awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Action Badge and Parachutist Badge.

Let us pray to God the Father, Jesus, all of the saints and all of the angels that Ronnie Pallares is in heaven. Let us pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen