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Eric Paliwoda Obituary
United States Army Captain Eric Thomas Paliwoda, 28, formerly of West Hartford and Farmington, was killed in action on Friday, (January 2, 2004) in Balad, Iraq. Born February 23, 1975 in Hartford, Eric was the beloved son of Alfred and Mary Paliwoda of Sedona, AZ. In addition to his parents, his sister and brother-in-law Allison and Captain Jeff Csoka of Clarksville, TN, his fiancee Wendy Rosen of Hartsdale, NY, and his uncle, aunt, and cousins Thomas, Susan, Michael, and Cailin Luneburg of Danville, CA survive him. Eric is predeceased by his maternal grandparents Phyllis and Thomas Luneburg and paternal grandparents Helen and Jan Paliwoda. Growing up in Farmington, Eric attended West District Elementary School and Irving A. Robbins Middle School. Eric graduated from West Hartford's Conard High School in 1993, where he was an exceptional student and an All-State and All-American honored basketball player. During high school, he received a congressional nomination and was accepted to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Eric entered the Academy in 1993 and over his four years there was a member of Army's Division I Basketball and Track & Field teams. He graduated from West Point in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. Following graduation from the Academy, Eric traveled to Fort Hood, TX where he served as both a Platoon Leader and an Executive Officer for an Engineering Battalion. He then moved to Fort Carson, CO where he was the Battalion Personnel Officer and Assistant Brigade Engineer for the 3rd Engineering Battalion. Eric's extensive military education included graduation from the Engineer Officer Basic course, the Scout Platoon Leaders Course, the Armor Officer Advanced Course, the Combined Arms Services Staff School, and the Cavalry Leaders Course. Over the course of his career, Eric was awarded both the Army Commendation Medal and the Army Achievement Medal twice, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. He will also be honored with a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star posthumously. Eric had served as Company Commander for Bravo Company, 3rd Engineering Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, CO as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom since April 2003. He had also recently been chosen to return to West Point as an instructor in the Department of Environmental Studies. Eric will be terribly missed by all of those who knew, loved, and cherished him. As a special leader and friend, he reached, touched, and changed many lives during his brief time on this earth. Services will be held Monday, January 12, 1:30 p.m. in the Old Cadet Chapel at West Point, New York. Burial will follow at West Point Military Cemetery. Flowers may be sent to the William F. Hogan Funeral Home, 135 Main Street, Highland Falls, New York, (845) 446-2868.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Eric Paliwoda
Charlie Gili
April 22, 2025
Hello,
We wanted to let your family and friends know that we are sending Care Packages to deployed troops this week and some of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo and hometown of Eric T. Paliwoda US Army Captain.
We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families and friends and others who support our mission.
We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
Father Robert Repenning
March 24, 2025
Twenty-one years and counting and Eric's life and his memory is still touching hearts. I remember FOB Paliwoda back in Iraq and a few days came across Eric's name. I read a little bit about him and see what a remarkable impression this man left on people. My prayers are with his loved ones and I hope they are comforted that we will "Never Forget," Eric. Blessings and peace!
December 30, 2017
I still have his "Hero Bracelet" that was found in Pinellas County, Florida in 2014.
[email protected]
John McNamara
October 20, 2014
There isn't a day I don't think of my Battle Buddy, Eric you were the best, only the good die young.
Michelle
August 25, 2014
I am sorry for your loss. My deep condolences. I did not know him personally, but I feel that his passing had been a great loss for many. May his deeds of bravery and care continue to live on in the hearts and memories of those who love him dearly.
The original "I'll Be Back!" :^)
Cheryl Taylor-LaMay
July 23, 2014
I wept today...again. I think of you very very often Sir.
I tell others, including total strangers, of your sacrifice. It touches me and all those I feel compelled to share your ultimate sacrifice with. May your Beloved Fiancee', your Darling Mother, Daddy, family and friends find peace in knowing you are with God.
Your Sister in Christ, Cher.
I am the Way, the Truth and the Light
Cheryl Taylor-LaMay
July 23, 2014
REPOSTING "Momma's Early Valentine":
"For Eric's Momma, Daddy & family who has felt such a tremendous loss. As well as, for all those who knew & loved Eric. For all who heard of this grievous loss & are deeply moved by it (like myself, an Army Momma)...”??
Especially for Eric's Momma...
?In memory of: ?Army Captain Eric T. Paliwoda??
I live through you & through your love.
?I watch over you from up above.?
And one day soon I'll see your face,?
and in your arms will be embraced!??
I LOVE YOU Mother AS I ALWAYS HAVE!? Have HAPPY THOUGHTS MOTHER, please don't be sad!
??Because, I live through you & through your love.
?I watch over you from up above.?
And one day soon I'll see your face,?
and in MY arms YOU'LL be embraced!
??So LOOK FOR ME in each sunshines' ray,?
and remember together we'll be one day!
?I look for you in Jesus' face?
and peace I find in HIS embrace!??
While we wait for you to come on home!?
Be patient Dear, you're NOT alone!
For by our Saviour we have life!?
And more abundantly! Just peace, no strife!
??So wait for Jesus to come or call!?
And meet me in His Holy Hall!
?For God Himself will bring you home
?when it's YOUR time! You are NOT alone!
??One more thing Dear Mother Mine!?
This is my early Valentine!?
See I've heard through God that you are sad,
but DON'T be Mother, and DON'T feel bad.??
For in the arms of Christ I REST,
?remembering that "MY MOTHER IS BEST"!?
Oh! One more thing that you should hear!
?Don't be afraid! GOD LOVES YOU DEAR!??
Love always,? Your Son Eric
?
Written by: Cheryl M. Taylor, Orlando, Fl. on Jan. 27, 2004 of the USA!
Wes Swanson
July 20, 2014
God bless sir, BRAVO BEAST!
Fard Lambert
January 25, 2013
Hi. My name is Fard Lambert. I was a specialist in the army and i was there. I new Cpt Paliwoda very well. He sent me home on two weeks leave when my grandmother past when we were over there. We always talked. I know what kind of guy he is. A great one. even under pressure. I remember the incident as clear as day. Kind of hard to believe that it was almost a decade ago. Well I can never forget him. He will always be in my memory. I tell the story to my brothers and family all the time. So rest-in-peace Capt. He know hes not forgotten. Best love and wishes to your family and I would love to meet them someday and tell them the story. His soldiers are still here and I'm one of them.
Peggy Childers
January 3, 2013
To the family and friends of Capt. Eric T. Paliwoda:
It has truly been my honor to sign Eric's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, it has become increasingly difficult for me to continue after this message. Please forgive me and know that Eric will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy
Peggy Childers
January 2, 2012
To the family and friends of Capt. Eric T. Paliwoda:
Always remembering Eric. "Some gave all."
Sean Burns
September 12, 2011
I served along side of him, the talks me and CAPT Paliwada had made me want to stay in the army. I was one of the Medics there working on trying to save his life. I miss him a lot and wish he was there he was like a father and big brother to me.
Cher Taylor-LaMay
September 2, 2011
Just checking in. Tho' I never knew Eric, we have a common bond. My son. Sending my best to all and I am sure that none of us WILL NEVER FORGET!
Cher Taylor-LaMay
March 8, 2011
It has been so long Dear since I last wrote to you.
But I have not forgotten that love will get us through.
This great divide between us gives cause for many tears.
But one day my dear hero we'll see you I've no fear.
And when we're all together we'll dance a dance above!
For we will be together and basking in GODs' LOVE!
And in this joyous gathering we'll laugh and joke and hug!
Yet for now my dear one still many tears stream down.
Not because you left us, but, rather that you've gone
to our loving Father where you're resting in His arms.
For like you Eric one day we too away will fly!
To be with you in our Fathers' arms, never more to cry...
Peggy Childers
January 2, 2011
To the family and friends of Capt. Eric T. Paliwoda:
Please accept my remembrance of Eric on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten in my home.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Peggy Childers
January 2, 2010
To the family and friends of Capt. Eric T. Paliwoda:
Remembering Eric 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
Michelle Joynt
January 2, 2009
Thank you to the parents of Capt. Eric Paliwoda for raising a fine young man to serve our country. A thank you to his Fiance for supporting him as well. Just wanting to let you know all that your son/fiance/brother/friend did is not forgotten.
Michelle
In Memory of Eric ~ (Debra Estep)
January 2, 2009
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
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 Eric, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Peggy Childers
January 2, 2009
To the family of Capt. Eric T. Paliwoda:
Eric 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
Melissa Reichert
April 24, 2008
I did not know Eric personally, but my x-husband did, I do know how much he helped him in many different ways. Eric was a great man, who did everything he could for his soldiers, and should be remembered as just that, a wonderful man! You will always be in my prayers, may he never be forgotten.
Debbie , Kenny Coffey
January 1, 2008
Our continued thoughts and prayers out to the PALIWODA family.Knowing now what they have always known is one of many reasons that our HERO[ES] shall NEVER be forgotten.Rest well brother as prommissed 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 great nation.THANK.YOU...HO..YAAH..B.V.C.
August 6, 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)
An American
May 24, 2007
...Now arises from hallowed ground a delicate cloud of bugle notes that softly say, Farewell Soldier...
Garnet Jenkins
January 2, 2007
In Remembrance of this Fine Young Soldier, Capt. Eric T. Paliwoda, on the 3rd anniversary of the day he gave his life for our Country and for Freedom.
May he, rest safely in God's Loving Care and know that he is a True American hero, that shall Never Be Forgotten.
May the Peace of the Lord be with the Paliwoda family.
There will never be enough ways, to humbly thank these Heroes, for their Supreme Sacrifice, my brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.
"And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes,
there shall be no more death,
nor sorrow, nor crying,
there shall be no more pain.
For the former things have have passed away."
Revelations 21:4
As another New Year begins without Eric, Please know he is close, in your heart and soul.
May you find peace in knowing the love and memories you have, will remain with you forever and that this Country remembers his sacrifice.
I am deeply sorry for your loss
SPC Francisco Figueroa
September 12, 2006
CPT P
it still feels fresh of the day they took you away from us. You did alot for me not only in trusting a guy with hardly any experience to work in your commo shop but helping me in my personel issues. The company was never the same with out you. Thank you for the memories and the leadership
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
April 5, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Paliwoda family in the loss of Eric. I did not know Eric, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. 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. Eric it has been 27 months since you were taken. You are a hero and you will never be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Linda Denning
April 4, 2006
Mary,
I know several months have now passed, but many, many of us here in Tolland, CT still keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. My son Michael was blessed to have you as a teacher... it makes me sad to know that other students will not have the opportunity to have Eric as their teacher. However, you must be very proud of all that he was able to accomplish in such a short time. Please take care.
Kathleen Farella
October 26, 2005
My condolences to the Paliwoda family. My son, Sgt. Jonathan Farella, served with him in Iraq. He was with him on that terrible day. Jon and I visited his grave at West Point this past July. My prayers are with you.
Kenneth Paliwoda
October 23, 2005
Our sincere condolences to the family of Eric. Although I do not know of any relationship, he has made the name of Paliwoda proud because of his sacrifice, strength, compassion and leadership
alex lucas
July 21, 2005
Cpt.P your larger than life bro.god knows anyone would follow you.i did and i can not thank you enough.thanks for the opurtunity.your Delta Lucas
Rosario Diaz
January 13, 2004
Our deepest condolences to the Paliwoda family and Ms. Rosen. The Paliwods served as our family's mentors when my brother Rafael was a plebe. Your guidance and assurance truly helped us through that time. I only hope that our prayers for Eric and your family will provide the same.
Robert Betts
January 12, 2004
Having known Eric in Conard, I have no doubt that he was the best of officers, one whose men would have followed him anywhere--he was a natural leader and a good man. I hope that as time passes the pleasure of your time together helps ease the pain of your loss.
Gerald&Marlene Long
January 12, 2004
OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. WHEN WE READ ABOUT ERIC'S PASSING WE WERE VERY SHOCKED. WE DON'T KNOW IF YOU REMEMBER US BUT WE SURE REMEMBERED YOU. WE TOOK CARE OF ERIC WHEN YOU HAD ALISON.WE FEEL VERY PROUD TO HAVE KNOWN ERIC AND TO FIND OUT HOW SUCCESSFUL HE BECAME.WE WANT TO THANK YOU FOR HAVING GIVEN OUR COUNTRY SUCH A WONDERFUL YOUNG MAN. PLEASE RELAY OUR CONDOLENCES TO ALISON AND ERIC'S FIANCE.
Adam Goodwin
January 12, 2004
It is the saddest of news to hear of Eric's passing. As a classmate at Conard High, I recall many happy moments shared with him. I am reminded that his sense of humor and good nature were supreme features of his long list of outstanding qualities.
Thank you Eric for your heroic service to our country.
My deepest sympathy to the Paliwoda family and to all who were lucky enough to know Eric closely.
Kevin Kelliher
January 11, 2004
There isn't anything I could add that hasn't already been said about Eric: humble, friendly, intelligent, patriotic. Having any of those qualities is desirable, but Eric's exceptionallness comes through in that he truly was meld of them all. My fondest memories of Eric are those we shared as teammates on the Conard High School basketball team. I don't think we ever referred to one another by our first names during those days...always "E" and "K" . It was "K, I'm feeling it. Get me the ball". I had the easiest job in the world: just give it to the big guy and let him do his thing. Those were good days. Although we lost touch over the years, I am very proud to have known and become friends with Eric. My condolences to Mr. & Mrs. Paliwoda, Allison and Wendy.
Kristin Lovett
January 10, 2004
Eric was very loved in our family. He would often come by the house with my brother, Brian and make sure to make us all have fun and laugh with his easy going, teasing way. My parents used to refer to him as Eddie Haskell- so polite, formal, but always sincere in his conversations with us all.
I will always respect Eric for his choices to honor and fight for our country and it saddens me that he can now only contribute as a role model and memory- he obviously had so much more to offer as a future husband, father and citizen.
Thank you Eric for your loyalty, wisdom and humour. Thank you for being a wonderful friend to my brother and my family. You have touched our lives and you will be in our hearts always.
My condolences to all of your family, friends and fiance.
David Kerznar
January 9, 2004
My deepest sympathy to the family.
As a distant second cousin on my
grandmothers side, I still bleed a little for a death of a relative and one of our finest fallen solders.
God be with you...
Linda Erickson
January 9, 2004
My thoughts and prayers are with family and friends of Eric. I remember reading of Eric's appointment to the academy years ago in the Hartford Courant and was pleased that CT continued to have wonderful candidates to USMA...and no doubt Eric was yet another one. May your many memories of Eric help you during this difficult time in your lives.
Our condolences...
Linda and Keith Erickson
(son..Ross Erickson,
class of '95 USMA)
stacey zagorski(greenwood)
January 8, 2004
my deepest sympathies to the poliwada family.
Erica-Hope Scott
January 8, 2004
My deepest sympathies to The Paliwoda Family, Ms. Rosen and U.S. Army family.
One day while staying after school, I came upon the boys and girls basketball practice. I wanted to join as a freshman but never played an organized sport. There I was in the middle of the gym with the balls zizagging and shadows of bodies swiftly running past me.
I found a spot by the bleachers to watch my friends play, there he was the captain of the boys basketball team, Eric Paliwoda!!
He was discussing his future plans with a coach, that he wanted to go to West Point. He was waiting to hear from our congress leader.
I thought how exceptionally smart he was and talented!! He definitely would get in and he did!
His dreams and goals were reached when the news came. After overhearing his conversation on that day, I thought dreams are goals that can be reached. He was always deeply committed, determined and impassioned to reach his goals.
He was and will always be a role model and our hometown HERO!
Thank you Eric!
Meghan Lovett
January 8, 2004
Eric was a wonderful person to know and grow up with. Being a best friend to my brother, I knew him well and he will be missed. Thank you Eric for all you have done for our Country and for your friends.
Bill Kranmas
January 8, 2004
Eric you were a great friend and will be missed. My family and I would like to express our deepest condolences.
mike and jessie brissett
January 8, 2004
On behalf of our son Ben who served under Cpt. "p" be ever so proud of the young man whom died with grace and valor and much honor.....We will for ever be served by his great but short time hear on earth. our thoughts and many prayers go out to his entire family.
Jonathan Abel
January 8, 2004
My condolences.
Hyla C. Sklar
January 8, 2004
After reading the obituary, I needed to thank Eric for giving his life for our country.He was a remarkable person. May G-d bless him and his family. Our sincere thoughts of sympathy are with you all at this difficult time.
Hyla and Harry Sklar
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