Respect apparent for fallen soldiers

Former Saugus resident Michael Pietrantonio, who has served two tours in Iraq, a stint in Afghanistan and a tour in Kuwait, said the same thoughts go through his mind every time he hears of a military casualty.Pietrantonio, talking about Revere’s Nelson D. Rodriguez Ramirez, who was killed Saturday in Afghanistan said, “It is always sad to hear about a fellow brother who has been killed. For those of us serving you don’t try to think about it (death) too much but when you hear of someone being killed it hits home with you and you always feel sorry for the family.”Ramirez, 22, was killed when the vehicle he was riding in was hit by a bomb and small arms fire in Afghanistan.Pietrantonio, who serves with the 85th Aerial Port Squadron out of Hanscom, said he had great respect for soldiers like Ramirez, because they are the ones who are working outside the wire (beyond the confines of the base).?In all of my tours to Iraq and Afghanistan I have always served inside the wire and it is definitely a different world being outside the base,” Pietrantonio said. “This person was in the military doing what he wanted to do. It is a very sad aspect for any soldier, airman, seaman or Marine.”Marblehead resident Ron Knight, who also serves with the 85th APS, served two years at Dover Air Force Base where Ramirez’ body will remain before being released to the family.?If there is any comfort that can be given to Sgt. Ramirez’ family at this time it is knowing how respectful the military is with each casualty,” Knight said. “Having seen the very solemn service for each casualty that arrives at Dover, while it is difficult to watch, at least you know the deceased is being given the full respect he deserves.”Knight said that Ramirez’ body was more than likely flown from Afghanistan to Baghram Air Force Base in Afghanistan, then to Kuwait, to Germany and arriving in the United States at Dover.?Sgt. Ramirez would have received a very solemn, non-verbal ceremony when he arrived at Dover,” Knight said. “When his casket is removed from the C-5 Galaxy airplane and it is transported to a van, any personnel working in the area will form two lines from the plane to the van and the base commander and a general from the Army will stand at attention for the transfer. The military does a tremendous job showing the proper respect to the person.”