Joseph Lee Schiro

JOSEPH LEE SCHIRO Special Forces Warrant Officer Joseph Lee Schiro, an American hero, a devoted father, son, brother and husband, was killed in action on October 6th, 2012. He was killed by enemy forces during direct ground combat while serving as part of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Joseph was a 27-year-old native of Coral Springs, Florida. He lived a life full of accomplishments and selflessness. His triumphs as an athlete, such as being ranked third in the nation as a cyclist during his teen years, were impressive. He was most respected for his intellect and character. He possessed a unique ability to analyze complex problems in the most challenging environments, while simultaneously executing the solutions. Throughout life he excelled in tasks broadly varied, from being a Mensa alum to serving forward of the frontlines during multiple combat tours with Special Forces. He lived with a character that spanned generations. He was the type of man seasoned veteran’s salute and children respect. Joe’s only limitation in life proved to be the amount of time he had to serve the world. His proudest accomplishments were those involving his children. In Joe’s passing the nation has lost a great treasure. His family has lost a great father, son, brother and husband. His community has lost a great neighbor and the brotherhood of Special Forces has lost a great mentor, leader, and friend. His military education includes U.S. Army Airborne School, Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape School, Warrior Leaders Course, Advanced Leaders Course, Modern Army Combatives Level One, Special Forces Intelligence Sergeant’s Course, Advanced Special Operations Techniques Course, Special Forces Warrant Officer Certification Course, Special Forces Detachment Leader’s Course, and the Special Forces Qualification Course. His military awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal (3), the Meritorious Service Medal, the Purple Heart Medal, the Army Commendation Medal (2), the Army Achievement Medal (2), the Army Good Conduct Medal (2), the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 3 Campaign Stars, the Iraq Campaign Medal with 2 Campaign Stars, the Army Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, the Parachutist Badge, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Special Forces Tab. Joseph is survived by his wife Diana Schiro, his sons Joseph Taylor and Nathaniel Lee, and daughter Caroline Grace. He is also survived by his sister Stephanie and loving parents Holly and Joseph. Services will held 2 PM on Monday, October 15, 2012 at Christ Fellowship Church, Royal Palm Beach. Following service, Special Forces Warrant Officer Joseph Lee Schiro, will be honorably laid to rest in South Florida National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests friends send donations to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or make donations to the following site for the children of Joseph: Children's Trust Fund, or cut and paste the following URL into your web browser. https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=SYKYH9Y8SQUG2

Joseph Lee Schiro

February 3, 1985 - October 6, 2012