Sgt Gregory Owens Jr - A Life Celebrated, funeral services for a fallen soldier

Army Sergeant Gregory Owens Jr., 24, of Garland, TX, died July 20 in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle followed by an attack from enemy forces using small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fires.

On July 29th his remains were flown to Carswell NAS in Ft. Worth. His family was escorted by members of the Patriot Guard of Texas, off base as military and civilian personnel lined the streets in a respectful salute.

A viewing was held on the evening of the 30th. That night I met Mr. & Mrs. Owens and given permission to take a photos and video of the funeral to share with other grateful American citizens.

Approximately 300 friends, family and close associates came to celebrate Sgt Owens life. A diverse group of people, made proclamations, recounted their fondest memories of him, and spoke of his character. His younger brother delivered a moving eulogy. US Army representatives posthumously, awarded Sgt. Owens with a Bronze Star for valor and the Purple Heart for wounds sustained in battle. A Southern Baptist minister delivered a high energy sermon. A small choir gave beautiful performances of southern gospel music.

The celebration concluded with, retired Army Gregory Owens Sr., his father, delivered an uplifting message to the audience. As the two-hour service concluded family and friends lined up to ring the Texas size bell, in honor of a local hero.


All gave some,
Army Sgt. Gregory Owens Jr.,
gave all he had,
to God, country, and family.

Aug. 08, 1984 Jul. 20, 2009


Field notes:
There was little coverage by the local media. Texas governor and other local politicians were silent. I am disappointed and concerned with their lack of common decency demonstrated towards a fallen Texan and local hero. For more information send me an email.

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[repnatl]

Rest in peace Gregory

[lhsguh013]

wow i attended this funeral and it was a blessing to do so. Rest in peace Gregory and you will be missed so very much.

[mseifert23]

A good person that will be missed by all and forever......just glad I have his brother as my best friend and that i was lucky enough to make meet him.....Rest in Peace and god bless

[mseifert23]

A good person that will be missed by all and forever......just glad I have his brother as my best friend and that i was lucky enough to make meet him.....Rest in Peace and god bless

[mseifert23]

A good person that will be missed by all and forever......just glad I have his brother as my best friend and that i was lucky enough to make meet him

[brandidiaz11]

RIP Greg (aka Face) It was an honor serving with you in Afghanistan. I wear a bracelet in your memory

[saywhatda]

FOR MY FREEDOM, I THANK YOU! Sgt Gregory Owens Jr. (REST IN PEACE)

[rupertagrint]

Miss you bro.

[gkuga1]

Owens,

I had the pleasure of going through AIT training with you at Fort Sill, OK. Hanging out with you at the PX, playing dominos, no matter what we were doing was an awesome time. I will never forget the jokes we had and the times we shared at Fort Sill. I think about you often and you will be missed.

Sgt. Stanislav

WVARNG 1/201st FA

[dianne13601]

he was such a sweet man..gave good hugs..and loved to party..sadly missed..he made a mark here in fort drum..everyone loved him..

[kidcantankerous]

miss you owens