Zach will be turning 22 in April and his ever evolving maturity continues to astound us and make our hearts swell with pride.  For as long as we can remember, Zachary has been strongly drawn to pyrotechnics and things that go “BOOM,” so while his decision to enlist in the Army came as somewhat of a surprise to us, we did not bat any eyelash when he told us his MO would be EOD.  This conversation took place in September 2005 and following our initial inquiries to be certain he had weighed his decision with all the earnestness it warranted, we kissed him, hugged him, pledged our steadfast parental supporter and sent him off to basic training in November of 2005.  Being the daughter of a retired Army colonel and life-long brat, I could not have been more pleased with his decision to serve and the quiet authority with which he approached his choice.   Zach’s Dad, Vince, was not as familiar with the Army life but has more than made up for lost time since 2005 and leads the charge as Zachary’s biggest fan, sounding board and his “go to guy.” 
 
              
               PFC. Zachary Fulgenzi, or "Fugi" as he is affectionately referred to by his friends in the unit - is pictured here at the Unit Party in November.

From basic training in Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Zachary transferred to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama to continue with his schooling and his training, on Eglin Air Force Base, culminated with graduation from EOD School on February 1, 2007.  His diploma from this fine achievement, graces the walls of our home and is a continuous reminder of Zachary’s unwavering determination and accomplishments.

Quite recently, Zach informed us that he had re-upped for 5 years and has his sights set on Anchorage, AK as his next state side assignment.  Zach’s enlistment has been a wonderful experience for us as a family unit and we wholeheartedly support his re-enlistment decision.  We do, of course, have concerns about our son choosing such a dangerous occupation and worry every day while he and all our heroic men and women are in theatre, but we remain so proud of him for having the guts to not only follow his dream but the heart to pursue it with such dignity and grace.  The Army has helped Zach create an enviable life plan and afforded him the opportunity to grow into the most amazing young man – one any parent would be proud to know, to staunchly claim as our own and to love with all our hearts.  

       
Vince Fulgenzi pictured with his son PFC Zachary J. Fulgenzi at graduation

You can write to Zach in Iraq at: zachary.fulgenzi@us.army.mil