SALINAS, CA, USA U.S. Army PFC, COMPANY D, 1ST BATTALION 87TH INFANTRY, 1 BCT, FT. DRUM, NEW YORK TEL AL EID, IRAQ 12/21/2007
Private First Class George J. Howell of Salinas, California attended Elkhorn Elementary and Moss Landing Middle School. He also attended North Monterey County and Seaside high schools, but left before graduating to find work, later earning his GED. He decided to enlist in the Army despite the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan in order to take care of his family.
The Army seemed a natural fit for him. His father, who died in 2001, served in the Army during the Vietnam War. Other family members had also been in the military. George signed up for a three year hitch on active duty, followed by reserve duty. George completed basic and advanced individual training at Fort Benning, Ga., and had been awarded a Purple Heart and the Army Service Ribbon.
George enlisted as a way to support his wife and children. George died in Riyadh, Iraq after a roadside bomb exploded beneath his truck at age 24.
From George’s wife Kristen:
George Jimmie Howell was born January 25, 1983. Most his family and friends called him Georgie. We had 3 children together, and he was an amazingly proud and wonderful daddy! Nothing meant more to him than family! He was the kindest and most loving man ever. He was loyal and funny, sincerely polite, and honorable. He was understanding, and a great friend. He loved to cook, and play football. He loved life. When you meet him, he gets deep into your heart, and changes you. You feel like you’ve known him forever… I could go on and on, but hopefully this will help. He was a TERRIFFICLY AMAZING man!!