PFC Jonathan Michael Rossi, US Army Safety Harbor, Florida July 11, 2007

Wednesday morning July 11, 2007 PFC Jonathan Michael Rossi of Safety Harbor, Florida was laid to rest at the National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. PFC Rossi was a member of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Calvary Division serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom when he was struck down by insurgents utilizing improvised explosive devices and small arms fire. He was the fifth casualty from Pinellas County.

Members of the Florida Patriot Guard began gathering early at the rest stop on I-75 in preparation to set a flag line by the assembly area for the arrival of PFC Rossi, his family and friends. The Florida Patriot Guard arrived before the family and was in place when they and the national organization, PGR, pulled into the cemetery. The air was hot and steamy as an estimated 40 bikes pulled into the parking area.

PFC Jonathan Rossi was from a military family. His father, Michael, was a retired Air Force Staff Sergeant. His seven siblings and step siblings stood, heads bowed as taps were played. PFC Rossi was buried with his mother Myrna Rossi who died of cancer in 1997. Governor Charlie Crist recently passed a law directing flags to be flown half mast when local heros died. PFC Rossi was the first to receive this honor.

America and the citizens of Florida owe PFC Jonathan Rossi a debt of gratitude for his ultimate sacrifice. A debt which can never be repaid. Today as our hearts and prayers go out to the Rossi family we hold Jonathan's memory firm. He was a true American Hero. Jonathan's step brother, Matthew Reif, said it best, "if I could say one last thing it would be 'stand down PFC Rossi, your mission is now complete.' "