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Jul 17, 2007 5:42 pm US/Eastern
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Queens Community Remembers Soldier Killed in Iraq
Le Ron Wilson, 18, Was One Of Youngest U.S. Fatalies To Date
BY ELIZABETH HUR, CBS 2 NEWS
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
The war in Iraq hit close to home in Queens Tuesday.
Family members gathered to say their final goodbyes to Private First Class Le Ron Wilson. Wilson died earlier this month in Baghdad when his vehicle hit a roadside bomb.
Just 18-years old, Wilson was one of the youngest U.S. soldiers killed in action.
The Patriot guard riders also paid their respects as the young soldier's funeral got underway with full military honors.
Anna Lisa Fecentese, a family friend, said that Wilson died a proud soldier.
"He always wanted to go there," Fecentese said, "to win this battle."
"He was living his dream," another friend, Daniel Rafael, agreed. "He passed away so early."
Born in Trinidad and raised in Queens, Wilson realized his dream just last year. He was only 17 when he joined the Armed Forces and his mother had to sign a waiver that allowed him to serve.
Dozens honored his heroism, bravery and passion.
"He was a loving child," his aunt, Anne Marie Charles, said. "That's how I'll remember him."
Wilson is survived by his parents and a younger brother.
(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)