Spc. Jacob M. Pfister

Spc. Jacob M. Pfister

Jacob M. Pfister Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 23, 2005.
Jacob Pfister joined the Army after the Sept. 11 attacks to give "some payback" to the terrorists. Even though he lost 25 percent of his hearing in a bombing in 2003, he decided to make a career out of the Army. Still, he had his questions about what war had done to him. "I'm afraid of going back home again," he told The Associated Press from Iraq in 2003. "I don't want to bring the mentality I have here back to my mother and little brothers." Pfister, 27, of Buffalo, N.Y., was killed April 19 in Baghdad when a car bomb detonated near his patrol. He was based at Fort Stewart. He is survived by his wife, who is expecting their first child in June. Pfister quit Buffalo State College and joined the Army infantry after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. His mother, Amy MacGregor, described her son as a serious man who loved his family. "The way he put it to me is, `Mom, who would you rather have over there defending you, me or some other joker?'" she said.

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Sign Jacob M. Pfister's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

April 19, 2020

Shane LeMaster posted to the memorial.

April 10, 2020

John Kertatos posted to the memorial.

April 9, 2020

Amy MacGregor posted to the memorial.

Shane LeMaster

April 19, 2020

Jake, as you rest in peace know that you are still in my heart and mind... I love you BROTHER and miss you so much. This day never gets any easier. I laugh, I cry and still to this day I don't understand why. Thank you for being such a great Soldier and such an awesome friend!
PEACE, LOVE & RESPECT BROTHER!

John Kertatos

April 10, 2020

Thank you for serving your country and for being a good friend to my son Tony Kertatos two good friends and brave soldiers

Amy MacGregor

April 9, 2020

In these difficult times I wish you were here but it's not to be. This week I put out the flags in front of the house and lit the Gold Star to remind people to never forget you and Kevin. I put 15 flags at the Derby Veterans Memorial Park today and will leave them there until the 29th of April to Honor your memory, love and miss you so much.

TaJuan Williams

May 26, 2019

One of the best friends I ever had at a time when I needed one the most. You were right about Bone thugs. I will never forget you my friend.

Andrew

April 7, 2014

I was once very close to your family..truly great people, they are. You've affected them with your life beyond measure. I didn't know you, but I wish I had gotten to. Your legacy really does live on through your brothers and sisters. Thank you and rest in peace.

Justine Swiatkowski

April 19, 2013

We miss u! Heading out to your memorial site to have a beer and smoke with you. Bringing Liam Jacob to see you for the first time. You will always be missed!

Amy MacGregor-Morrisey

April 19, 2012

It is that day of the year again. So hard not to cry, to lose your 1st born is beyond words. After 7 yrs the pain never lessens, its just there when you wake up everyday. Dave, and the kids and Grandkids keep me going. It is a shame the Grands never got to know Jake, he LOVED kids!!!!

Peggy Childers

April 19, 2012

To the family and friends of Spc. Jacob M. Pfister:
Always remembering Jacob. "Some gave all."

Peggy Childers

April 19, 2011

To the family and friends of Spc. Jacob M. Pfister:
Please accept my remembrance of Jacob on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be fogotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

L Neal

April 4, 2011

To the family of Spc. Jacob M. Pfister:
Please know that just as your loved one remains in your hearts and minds; his sacrifice, and that of your family, remains with the people he died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for his bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.

Claudia Barone

July 20, 2010

Rest in Peace Jake.

Liam Engle

July 1, 2010

"I am the Infantry.

I am my country's strength in war.

her deterrent in peace.

I am the heart of the fight-

wherever, whenever.

I carry America's faith and honor

against her enemies.

I am the Queen of Battle.



I am what my country expects me to be-

the best trained solider in the world.

In the race for victory

I am swift, determined, and courageous,

armed with a fierce will to win.



Never will I fail my country's trust.

always I fight on-

through the foe,

to the objective,

to triumph over all,

If necessary, I will fight to my death.

By my steadfast courage,

I have won 200 years of freedom.

I yield not to weakness,

to hunger,

to cowardice,

to fatigue,

to superior odds,

for I am mentally tough, physically strong,

and morally straight.



I forsake not-

my country,

my mission

my comrades,

my sacred duty.



I am relentless.

I am always there,

now and forever.

I AM THE INFANTRY!

FOLLOW ME"

- The Infantryman's Creed

Rest In peace Brother.

Mike "Abeib"

July 1, 2010

Jake."Puck"..an awesome brither, person, friend..and a great little brother that alway had me thinking..always thinking about you..Thank you

Mike

July 1, 2010

Jake."Puck"..Always thinking about you..an awesome person, freind, brother anf great little brother...You r the best
Mike "abeib" Innarella

Brian Israel

July 1, 2010

Puck...thinking about you today brother. Thank you again for everything you gave us!

Lynn Vanderhoff

April 29, 2010

5 years ago today, we all gathered together to honor Jake and vowed to forever keep Jake's light lit. Jake's light is shining brightly in so many lives that is awesome to know Jake touch so many lives in a positive manner.
So today is a day of celebration, we will visit the Veteran's Memorial Park to honor Jake,(32/32)represents Jake's age and the number of years Rick and I have been married and now we will celebrate Abby's reaching 2 1/2 years of age. Abby knows Jake from our memories, pictures and that incredible "light" that continues to shine in our lives!

We love you and miss you, Jake!

Aunt Lynn

Nicholle Sciria

April 25, 2010

Remembering Jake honors his memory. Everyday we think of him and the brother we lost. He will always be in our lives. We miss you Jake.

Amy MacGregor-Morrisey

April 19, 2010

Yesterday on the eve of the 5th anniversary of Jake and Kevin Wessel's death, A ceremony was held in the Derby(NY) Veterans Memorial Park honoring our boys. Never forget our Heroes in Heaven. Love You Forever, Mom

Peggy Childers

April 19, 2010

To the family and friends of Spc. Jacob M. Pfister:
Remembering Jacob on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Patricia Becker

April 18, 2010

Tomorrow marks the 5 year anniversary of the day we lost Jacob. To many people he was just a soldier lost in a War. To us he was family. He was a Son, Husband, Father, Brother, Grandson, Nephew, Cousin and Friend. He was a young man who was fighting for our many Freedoms. His light will always shine in the hearts and memories of those who loved him.

Amy MacGregor-Morrisey

September 27, 2009

We where all back @ the Derby Veterans Park yesterday for Jake's 32nd birthday. Betty Jackowiak joined us for it was the 42nd anniversary of her son Rick's death in Vietnam. Dave Viau was there again. It's nice that Jake's friends remember. We will always remember. All My Love, Mom

Kenna Larra

July 1, 2009

”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,600 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna

SSG Peter J. Trompeter

May 25, 2009

SPC Jacob Pfister,

Though I didn't have the chance to get to know you, know that you are not forgotten.

I remember that day as if it was yesterday. We got the call that our ATTACK brothers were hit. QRF was spun up. We went, not knowing what happened nor did we care. We just wanted to get there to help. Know that I am proud to have been able to serve along side you.

Rest in Peace

John Krazmien

April 20, 2009

It's been 4 years Jake, but it seems like yesterday everybody was together to pay respect to you. I still wear my bracelet for you everyday and I had a band dedicate "Civil War" by Guns N' Roses to you on Saturday night at a show I saw them play in Greensboro. I know you and Grandad are up there keeping an eye on all of us. We all miss you very much.

Amy MacGregor

April 20, 2009

Four yrs. ago today the Army was at my front door. You are still a major part of our lives Jake and you always will be. Maddison is beautiful and is so much like you it is scary at times. Yesterday we went to the Derby memorial park with a new infantry flag, flowers, a beer and cigarette for Jake. One of his friends, Dave Viau had been by and left a cross w/ flowers and a message. It's nice that he is still remembered by others than family. Love and Miss You so much. Mom

Lynn Vanderhoff

April 19, 2009

Well,Jake...4 very long years since you were stolen from us. Not a day goes by that you are not in our thoughts, some days it is so ovewhelming that I can't seem to catch my breath. Uncle Rick, Sean and Bill all miss you so much. Your Maddison is so like you it is uncanny and is the joy of this family in so many ways. I hope in some way you know how much you are loved and how much we all miss you. Forever in our hearts and forever our Hero!!!!

Love,

Momtoo

Peggy Childers

April 19, 2009

To the family of Spc. Jacob M. Pfister:
Jacob gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Maryann Cabarga

April 12, 2009

April is here again & we just celebrated Easter, and as always Jake you are in our thoughts, our hearts and our prayers. Miss you!!!

Aunt Maryann

Aunt Patti

November 15, 2008

Never does a day go by without a thought of you! You are missed by so many. We love you Jacob Matthew.

Maryann C

November 2, 2008

Will be thinking of you more than ever this coming week and especially this Veteran's Day. Maddie is a carbon copy of you, we will never let her forget you. Love always Jake!

Aunt Maryann

John / Mary Kertatos

November 1, 2008

We wish we could have met you Jacob. Our son Tony Kertatos really respected you and always talks good about you. You really made an impression on Tony and he has told us many times how you helped him get through that hell hole in Iraq during the beginning of the war. Thank you so much for helping him and all the others get through it. We really repect you for fighting for our countrys beliefs God Bless you and may God stay and protect your family forever. Thank you Jacob

Lynn Vanderhoff

September 26, 2008

I didn't forget buddy...Happy Birthday a couple of hours late.

Love, Aunt Lynn

Amy MacGregor-Morrisey

September 26, 2008

31 yrs ago today I gave birth to my 1st child. He was intense, artistic, thoughtful, funny and so very missed. I will try not to cry today, you should be with us. All My Love to a great man, Mom

Lynn Vanderhoff

May 26, 2008

Well,Jake here we are on Memorial Day 2008, and I can feel you all around me. It is certainly not the same as a hug or a quiet conversation. It is not like days gone by when you would IM me so you could tease me for working too late or being up "past my bedtime" only to quickly jump back to your conversation with Ashleigh.
It is more like a soft kiss on the cheek carried gently away by the whisper of the wind and then you are not quite sure if it really happened but it is okay....because I am richer having known and loved you and I proudly carry the torch that keeps your light lit. I love you, Jakey!!!

Momtoo

Aunt Lynn

May 3, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Spc Pfister!

Maryann Cabarga

April 21, 2008

Remembering Jacob today & always. Glad that God loaned you to us for the time that we had. Proud to be your aunt, but also a little selfish to wish for one more hug. Watch over your loved ones! Love you!

Aunt Maryann

Amy MacGregor-Morrisey

April 19, 2008

3 yrs today. 3 long painful yrs. Thank you for the beautiful little girl you and Ashleigh gave us Jake. She is a reflection of you and gives us so much joy. She helps ease the pain and you would be so proud of her Jake because we certainly are. We love and miss you Jake. Tell your Grandad we Love him too. Love Mom, Dave, Ian, Rachel, Marshall and your Monica

In Memory of 'Jake' ( Debra Estep )

April 19, 2008

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers today.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”

I did not know Jake, but I am remembering on
this day he gave his all.
He is my hero.

Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL

The Other Side
(Beautiful song to share)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Debbie , Kenny Coffey

April 19, 2008

Our continued thoughts and prayers out to the PFISTER / MORRISEY families and all .Knowing now what they have always known is one of the many reasons that our HERO[S] shall NEVER be forgotten.Rest well brother as prommissed and in your honor that star spangled banner shall FOREVER wave.Your name stamped in steel is FOREVER clutched in the tallons ,as your spirit FOREVER soars high in the skies in the symbol of our greatfull nation..All Hard Chargers..If you are wonded I will carry you**If you are captured I will come for you**If you are K.I.A. I will FOREVER reamber you.....We have one and all COME by NORTH**COME by SOUTH**COME by EAST**COME by WEST..We were all gathered and united on that great day as strangers.As we stood and upon those last [4] spoken words we are..........FOREVER BROTHERS.............SEMPER FI...............B.V.C..........

Michael King

October 15, 2007

Jake, its been two and a half years now. I sit here on antoher sleepless night in the same place that took you. I miss you. Thank you for wearing the same uniform. Your Cousing Mike (Iskandariyah, Iraq)

Charmin

September 28, 2007

Happy Birthday brother! I just want you to know that we love you and think about you all of the time. You will never be forgotten. You are truly missed. From the Brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. God Bless You and your family.

Amy MacGregor-Morrisey

September 26, 2007

30 years ago I was in the final stage of labor @ this time. One hr to go and Jacob would be born. This is already a difficult day for me but it started very early for me and the kids. We shall be spending this day doing a number of activities that Jake enjoyed. His daughter is a carbon copy of him and I just spent a wonderful wk with her in Florida. If only he could be with her, All our Love Forever Jake, never forgotten , Mom

Nicholle Sciria

September 23, 2007

It's coming up on Jake's birthday, and as sad as I am not to have him here with us, I know he's watching over us all, friends and family. It't not a time to be sad, but to celebrate his life. I know he's here with us...and that gives me peace. I hopes he's at peace as well.

August 7, 2007

I don't pretend to know what to say or do that would bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

July 16, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Spc Pfister and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Bill Harszlak

May 28, 2007

Thank you for his service to our country and the sacrifice made.
May you always find comfort in knowing that you and the world have been blessed to have had Jacob in your life. May his spirit live forever!

Aunt Patti

April 19, 2007

It's been two years since we lost Jake. It seems like yesterday. His memory lives on in so many people. Gone but never forgotten.

Garnet Jenkins

April 18, 2007

Please know how deeply sorry I was to learn of the loss of Spc. Jacob M Pfister. A Multitude of Thanks, for this Brave Young Soldier's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.
Those who Made this Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, shall Never Be Forgotten, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." - John 15:13

May the Peace of God and your memories of Jacob, remain in your heart always.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Andrea Pfister

March 22, 2007

To my brother,
We share a day in life and death.
I will never forget you.
Your memory will always live on in my heart and in the hearts of others.
I love you Jake.
I will see you in the next life.

Kelly Gardner

February 20, 2007

RANCHO CUCAMONGA HERE!
Hello every one,
I just found out about Jacob two days ago. I am deeply sorry for everyone's loss. I knew him well. We were in the same squad during the first tour in Iraq. He was very hard core. First to fight, last to leave kinda guys. Had plenty of talks with him about God and religion. He gave me a little metal crucible with the image of Jesus on it. If I'm not mestaken I think he said his father gave it to him before he died. It meant a lot to him and he wanted me to have it to remember to stay on the straight an narrow. It was accidentally broken but I still have it to this day. If it is possible, sometime in the future, I'd like to give it to his wife or child. I think it would do much better in there possession than in mine. Wow. Just thinking back brings back a world of stories to me. Anyway, I am, again, sorry that he is gone, but he will live on in his child. I thank his family for giving me the opportunity to know him.

February 14, 2007

THANK YOU FOR PROTECTING OUR FUTURES.. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.

REST IN PEACE DEAR HERO

Jaison Bloom

December 7, 2006

I'll never forget that day in April 2005, as I walked into the barracks and recieved the radio call. I lost a friend! Jake's memory continues to inspire me today. I will always be proud to have served with him as his Platoon Leader and Executive Officer!

ROBYN GARSIDE

August 12, 2006

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOUR DAUGHTER. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI



A PROUD MARINE MOM

Maryann Cabarga

June 30, 2006

Just viewed the moving tribute by Ashleigh and Aunt Patti...and I am having a very serious "Jake" moment....daily we see little things around us that remind us of our loss....I thank you so much for all you gave and thank God that you were able to leave us such a precious gift. We love Madison, she is such a joyful reminder of you as a baby & toddler.

Aunt Maryann

Sgt. Frederick Turley a.k.a (Charmin)

June 22, 2006

Puck,

You will always have a special place in my heart. You are the definition of a true hero. I miss you very much brother. May God Bless you and your family. From your brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity.

Zachery Watkins

June 20, 2006

Hey brother. I found out you died when I visited Hinesville in Dec. 2005. Your death has hit me very hard because of what you meant to me. You were a great soldier and an even better friend. Your braclet has never left my wrist and my wife and I have decided to name our son Jacob. Till I see you again, love you bro.

Robert Blake

May 1, 2006

I'm so sorry guys. I just happened to be surfing the web and ran into this page. I don't know what happened but i would like to know. Someone please contact me and let ne know.

Lynn Vanderhoff`

April 28, 2006

Tomorrow is the 1 year annivesary of the day we laid Jake to rest, it is also Uncle Rick's and my 28th Anniverisary. It will forever be a day we share with Jake. We had dinner tonight with Mom, Sandi, Greg and Jadyn, Maryann and Monica. Of course, we ate at "Amy's Place" (the Moose Lodge) because Amy is the best cook around bar none. On the way home we stopped to "see" Jake, the Town of Evans Veteran's Memorial Park has stone with Jake's name engraved on it. We took a bouquet of cut flowers to represent the Freedom that Jake lived and died for. We each talk to Jake and smoke a cigarette to honor a fond memory and wept a silent tear....for it is so hard to believe it's already been a year.



You were not our child but of the heart....

A special bond from the very start.

We hold sweet mrmories very near and dear.

And shed tears at the marking of a year.

You will forever have our love ...

Sweet kisses to br delivered when we again meet above.



We Love You, Jake!!!!



Uncle Rick and Aunt Lynn

Dan Bouvier

April 28, 2006

jake was truly a hero.

Amy MacGregor

April 20, 2006

1 yr ago today the Army was at my front door. Yesterday Mom,Monica & I spent the day doing something that Jake & his Grandfather Hugh would have enjoyed doing together, walking around Letchworth State Park. They were with us in the woods taking in the quiet beauty. Always with us in ours hearts.

Hope Matteson

April 19, 2006

First and foremost iwould like to take the time to thank Jacob for his bravery and his selfless serevice for defending our country. I am deeply saddened by our loss. He's beautiful, his love for our country and the people of our nation is much more than no other can imagain. I would like for the family to never forget that we are never alone. Somedays are harder than others and his physical contact will always be missed, however though his spirit and memories will continue to live within us and as long we keep them close in are hearts,and that is where hewill be.

To Andrea I'm so so,sorry that you have to feel the pain that knowone will ever imagain or begin to feel. IT's extremely hard but he's always close.Hang in there and remember you never walk alone.:)



GOD BLESS

james matteson

April 19, 2006

my deepest condolences to the family of Jacob, he is a true patriot to serve and protect those he never met.I know your pain for my son J.C. was killed in iraq novemer 12 ,2004.I wish there were words to comfort you but none surficefor such a great loss. I do beleave Jacob and J.C.are doing Gods work welcoming all to enter the pearly gates to whom St. Peter holds the keys.God bless to you all and I pray God keeps your hearts close. Father of Fallen Hero

matt & kai shultz

March 12, 2006

Your missed so much bro. You will never be forgotten, you were a great soldier and a better friend.

James Honeycutt

March 2, 2006

I just wanted to say that it is an honor to wear Cpl. Pfister's KIA bracelet. It will be worn proudly. I am currently an Army ROTC cadet.

Tom Gugliuzzas-Smith

January 17, 2006

My heartfelt sympathy to the Pfister family in the loss of Jacob. I did not know Jacob, but my heart is broken and I am sadden for your loss of such a young man. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers.

I send each of you a hug from my heart.

Love and Peace

Tom



To live in the hearts

of those you leave behind

is never to die"

~Robert Orr~

Luis Li Vargas

January 4, 2006

Jake I still can't believe your gone bro. We cheated death the first time we came here and even when we got back to the states we took our lives to the limit. There are days I think of the day I last got to talk to you. I miss you bro. Going back to the states doesn't feel right without you. I'll see you when my number is up. Your Brother in arms Louie

william Vanderhoff

July 13, 2005

My cousin, My Idol....

you will never be forgotten.

Randy Williamson

June 25, 2005

Your name will forever be honored as a hero in my mind. Your unselfish duty to protect this country gives me confidence that we will triumph over evil. Rest in peace and God Speed!

Nancy Gordon

June 22, 2005

I am sadden by your lose.I never knew Jacob...I read what others wrote of him.

He was a true hero....

Know that he now is at rest win the arms of God.For no greater love can a man show than to lay down his life for another...God will honor his willingness to do that,for you and for us too.He gave much for us to be able to live in safety.Now he has been rewarded by God for it...forever...

Words are not much comfort at this time.I pray God's Holy Spirit will comfort you during this time.

My son and I pray for you to find the happy times with Jacob to hold in your hearts and memories...

Not many are man enough to do as he did...you must be proud of him for his willingness to sereve and protect....

May God's peace be on all of you,

Nance G.

kanapathy Dave

June 22, 2005

A true hero…who stood up for his country and family, I salute you..Jacob M. Pfister.

Nicholle Halseth

June 18, 2005

To the entire Pfister family:

I knew Jake through my boyfriend Robert "Bob" Sciria....whom most of you might know. Jacob became a brother to me, and the news of his death shocked and saddened me. Jacob was a person who lived life to the fullest, and I will miss him greatly. There is nothing I can say or do to help ease your pain, but I hope you take solice in the fact that you aren't alone in mourning this loss. Bob and I miss him very much, he was family to us. I really think of Jacob as a hero and a roll model for those looking for something good in life. I don't know what else to say other than Jacob will be greatly missed and we will all keep his memory alive. If any of you feel the need to talk or share memories or anything feel free to contact either me or Bob and we will do what we can. Jacob we love and miss you, you are family to us and always will be.

Sgt. Ken Clark

June 10, 2005

Pfister,

I am happy and honored to have served with you in OIF and become your friend. You were a good man, always with the positive outlook, and you were a fine soldier. I won't forget you or our many conversations.

Scott Maitland

May 30, 2005

As a WNY native and Navy veteran, I send my appreciation for your sacrifice and wishes that your family receives some peace and understanding from the honor you deserve.

william c brown

May 19, 2005

jacob

well done good and noble servant

now enter into the house of the lord.

Andrew Roser

May 16, 2005

I knew Jake from when he first came to stewart.We served in the same platoon the first time in Iraq.I just learned of your loss from cpt carter,I feel the deepst sympathy for you.Jake was a great guy,a great soldier,I will miss him and he will not often be far from my thoughts.

Ron Sigeti

May 16, 2005

Encourage us, O God,

in our endeavor

To live above the common level of life.

Help us to choose the harder right

Instead of the easier wrong,

And never be content with the half truth

When the whole can be won.



(West Point Prayer)





Jake Pfister chose the harder right instead of the easier wrong. He could have stayed home after his first tour of duty, but that was not the way Jake lived his life. Jake was a son, a husband, a soon-to-be-father, a veteran who died for his country and his belief of freedom, and our fraternity brother.



When I first met Jake in the fall of 1997, he was a young, high spirited, cocky student at the University at Buffalo. He joined the largest national fraternity in the country, Sigma Phi Epsilon, and became a brother of SigEp at the University at Buffalo in the fall of 1997. Jake and I spoke many times about what he wanted to do with his life. He had a “nothing can harm me” approach to everything, and wanted to "do it all".



I watched Jake grow as a student, a young man, a member of society, and as my "little brother". I never questioned his ability to reach for the stars and to accomplish whatever it was that he set his mind to.



Even though we will not see Jake in a physical sense, he will be in the hearts of his family, friends, and his fraternity brothers for eternity.



We all miss you Br. Pfister. Know that you and your family are in our prayers.



Br. Ron Sigeti

Chapter Counselor and Big Brother

April Sunshine

May 14, 2005

Many families are torn apart during the loss of a loved one. Find strength in yourselves to remain strong and united. Each person feels the loss differently. A mother greives differently from the rest. For she carries her child for a life time. May God find peace in Jacob's Mother's Heart.

JoAnn Donner

May 12, 2005

I did not know Jacob, I knew of him from conversations with my Brother Bill, (Ashleigh's Uncle). He always spoke highly of him and after reading this book I know he must have been an outstanding young man. My sympathies and prayers go out to his family, I am so very saddened by your loss. God Bless.

glascott marilyn

May 6, 2005

to the entire pfister family: this is very difficult as i have never met you, but feel a need to send this message.



last friday, as you were saying goodbye to your wonderful jacob, i was on a plane to ft stewart ga for a vtc with my son who is deloyed at camp liberty.



needless to say, it was emotional.. just thinking of your pain, andmy having the luxury of talking and seeing chris.



my thoughts and prayers are with you.. jacob will always be remembered in your lives and to all that he touched... he is a beautiful hero to our country and our community.. i know that God will take care of all of you.



again, we have never met, but i would like to let you know that the staff of the JAG office at ft stewart wished to express their sincere condolences to you and yours.



i'm so sorry,

Dawn Bryant

May 2, 2005

What an honor and privilage to give your life for your country, we are honored by his service. May God grant this family peace beyond understanding, surround you with love and continue to provide for all your needs according to His riches in glory.

Susan Cabarga

May 1, 2005

Jake was truly a hero in my eyes and always will be, even in the eyes of his daughter. He made our family proud, we all will love and miss you. You were one of the many protecting our country you are a true hero. Ashleigh and your daughter will always know that.

Melanie Waite

May 1, 2005

With deep sadness a Blue Star turns to Gold. Please accept our deepest sympathies and our prayers.



The Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc

New York Chapter #1

Melanie Waite, President

Kevin O'Neil

April 30, 2005

Dave and Amy,

Although I haven't seen you in several years, sorry for the loss of your son. I think about you alot and our prayers are with you.

Maryann Cabarga

April 30, 2005

God gave us all a special gift 27 years ago, being loving and selfish at the same time, we were not prepared for God to call him back "home" so soon. But in our grief & sorrow we find a place of peace knowing Jacob was doing what he felt was his destiny. He was a dedicated son, brother, husband and soon to be father, but sometimes above all he was a soldier. A path he had chosen and took very seriously. He loved his military family in a bond so strong it amazes me. I know he will be looking out for all of them as well as us his family and that he will look over his Baby Maddison & guide her. Till we meet again dear nephew...I love you.



Aunt Maryann

Kitrina Noe

April 30, 2005

Altough i only hung out w/ him for about a year i found him to be a great guy and a great artist. he will be known in ours lives forever and i know his wife and unborn child will live a life knowing how great and brave he was.

Clavin

April 30, 2005

It is tough to know what to say after such a long few days.



It does not suprize me one bit to know of Jake's actions and valor in combat - because he had that approach to life. He was a good man who prided himself on making others around him feel welcomed and loved.



Puck we will all miss yoy here and your memory will never be forgotten.

Rosalind Barris

April 30, 2005

Well-done, faithful servant!

May God bless Jacob, and all of his family for their service to this country. May HE watch over Jacob's wife and baby girl every day of their lives. Military people are a special breed. Thank-you from a Dunkirk native.

Cory Russell

April 30, 2005

Ashleigh...We just want you to know that we are here if you ever need us. Jacob left you his most personal possession to give you comfort in the times ahead. Treasure Maddison and know that he is always with you. We love you and send you hugs and all our love +1...Aunt Cory and Uncle Steve..

Nicole Schukraft

April 29, 2005

I am very sorry for the loss of Jacob.He was truely a great friend to everyone and he will be sadly missed.He will live on in our hearts forever.

Helen Lemke

April 29, 2005

Although I did not know you or Jacob I am saddened by his death. I work with his cousin Renee and my husband was a veteran, he passed away when my children were very young. I lost a nephew last August who was a veteran and a father. My niece gave birth to their 2nd child after Mike was killed in a car accident. She also knows the kind of pain you will all go through as she is raising two children, one that Mike never met. If you ever need someone to talk to please contact me and I will ask Stacy if I can forward her email to you. The loss of my husband still hurts even though it has been 15 years. Now that I have lost my nephew the pain has returned. I will keep you in my prayers. Thank you Jacob for paying the ultimate price for freedom.

Helen Lemke, Angola, NY

bill brown

April 29, 2005

as mother cry's and wife she weeps

a little child in her womb does sleep. only to awaken to find that dad went away but at the end of her time dad will be waiting there .

may the peace of the lord be with you always [dad] bill

Tanya Ivey-Bloom

April 29, 2005

Ms. Pfister,

I am very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family at this difficult time. Your husband was a true hero! May God ease your burdens and provide strength for you at this time.

Danny Armand, Sr.

April 29, 2005

I have to say something to you. I just don’t know what to say. My son was there with Jacob. I learned of his death from him. He spoke of Jacob as a brother. He speaks of him as a brother because he was his brother. Everyday I think of how I would feel if I lost my son. I don’t know how you feel. I can only imagine it. I have to say something to you but what do I say? My heart goes out to you. I am truly sorry for your loss. All I can say is that I know that there is another soldier in Heaven watching over the ones down here.

Chandra Holmes-Baker

April 29, 2005

I never knew Jacob,but I'd like to express my condolences to Ashleigh and Maddison. Your husband/father-to-be was a hero. I know you've heard it over and over... but now he's my hero. I am so grateful for your husband. I am so saddened by his loss, but when Maddison is born, look into her little face and eyes, and you'll see Jacob there... it might make it easier. If there's anything we can do for you and your family, please don't hesitate to email me and ask.



Chandra Baker

(formerly Orchard Park, NY)

Fran Tulumello

April 28, 2005

I am saddened by your son's death and all those who have died during this war defending our freedom. I say a prayer every night with them all in mind. Thank you for the service of these fine young men and women seems hardly enough. God Bless your entire family.

Marlene (Pfister) Terrell

April 28, 2005

Amy,Ashleigh,Maddison and family

I never got to know Jacob in this life, but I will in the next.He is my nephew and I love him. Thank you Jacob for the ultimate sacrifice.

May the angels lead you into paradise; may the martyrs come to welcome you and take you to the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem.I pray,heavenly father keep Jacob's family close to you.I am so proud of you sweetie and your grandma loved you so much.I know you are with her and Jesus now.Good bye for now dear nephew.

Love in Christ Aunt Marlene,Uncle Scott,Missy&Jason and Jesse&Tifiany

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