Terrence Crowe laid to rest at St. Stephen’s Cemetery

Follows memorial service for first Grand Island soldier killed in Iraq

Lewiston Porter Sentinel, May 7, 2005

By Michael J. Owen
U.S. Navy Journalist (Ret.)

Friends, family, veterans and grieving citizens gather at Grand Island’s Veterans Park on Monday evening to honor and remember Lt. Col. Terrence Crowe for his service and sacrifice to his country. He was the first Grand Island soldier to die in the Iraq war. (photo by Mike Owen)

Memorial services were held at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church on Thursday morning for U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Col. Terrence K. Crowe. The 44year-old was killed by hostile fire while part of offensive operations in Tal Afar, Iraq, last Tuesday.

He was Grand Island’s first resident to die in the Iraq war.

The almost two-hour service, marked by beautiful music, thoughtful prayers and heartfelt remarks, was filled to capacity with almost standing room only.

The Rev. Paul M. Nogaro, pastor of St. Stephen's, noted that it was the largest memorial service he had ever seen. One by one, family, friends and military colleagues stood before a grieving crowd,
speaking on Crowe’s happy yet “extraordinary” life and accomplishments. They spoke about how proud Crowe was of his children, and working with students and cadets. Crowe’s friends, brother and sisters spoke of those that he touched throughout his life.

“The news said one soldier died in Iraq … (he was) also one father, one brother, one son, one uncle, one coach, one friend,…” said Crowe’s sister, Kate Olin. Fellow Army officers also spoke about the colonel’s life in the Army and his dedication to duty.

“He was a hero among all … and as a trainer he taught and touched the lives of many fellow soldiers. He will be remembered by them … and even the Iraqi soldiers he helped to train.”

“Terry realized that these people needed help, someone had to stay and that was Terry,” continued Lt. Gen. Helmsley. “His unselfish desire to help the Iraqi people will be remembered by many … and remembered forever.”

His loss to family, friends, the Grand Island community and our nation will never be forgotten as he paid the ultimate sacrifice for America.

Crowe was laid to rest after the Funeral Mass at St. Stephen’s Cemetery just behind the old church with full military honors. The reception was held in the Grand Island Fire Company Hall after the burial.

Firefighters and police officers turned out in full force as an honor guard for the fallen soldier.

The almost 22-year Army veteran was offered retirement at 20 years, but turned it down to
stay with the Army’s 98th Division and “pay his dues” mobilizing last October as part of a Military Transition Team mentoring Iraqi troops. He was killed on June 7 when his unit was attacked by
small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades.