Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Jose
Alfredo “Freddy”
Velez
KIA (GWOT)
October 21, 1981

–

November 13, 2004

Cemetery:

Resthaven Memorial Park

After his death in Iraq, “Freddy” Velez’ body was escorted home by his brother Andrew Velez, also a member of the U.S. Army. Less than two years later Andrew Velez was also killed in action in Afghanistan. The Velez family of Lubbock is the only family to lose two sons in the Global War on Terrorism.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    7th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division

    Action Date:

    November 4, 2004

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Jose Alfredo “Freddy” Velez, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, during combat operations in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 4 November 2004. When his unit was attacked in Fallujah, Iraq, Corporal Velez was killed by a sniper as he stood over wounded comrades in efforts to shield them from enemy fire. Corporal Velez’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.