by Jason Salas, KUAM News Sunday, September 09, 2007 Subscribe to Jason's newsfeed   E-mail this article Printable version KUAM Toolbar Web Widgets Get RSS headlines

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A native son returned home for the last time. There are few things in life more emotional than an elegy for a soldier...pulling at both sides of the heart because of the pride with which they served and the pain of what they leave behind. The island continues to grieve the loss of Talofofo's Henry Ofeciar, the highest-ranking Guamanian to lose his life in defense of freedom and liberty.

And early this morning at the Won Pat International Airport to a crowd of tearful mourners still coping with the shocking loss, Henry came home.

Those who knew him best describe "Hank", as he was affectionately known, as truly an officer and a gentleman. The numerous pictures we've seen since his passing and countless recollections about the man that we've likewise been told describe a happy person and proud islander, dedicated to his family, his friends, his country and his homeland. So it's no surprise that Hank's upbringing and values led him to a career in the military.

Governor Felix Camacho spoke to the sizable gathering of people, "On behalf of a truly grateful people. To honor the life of a hero and welcome home our brother, Major Henry Ofeciar, a man of faith, courage and conviction. A man of honor."

His easy-going, playful nature juxtaposed the heart of a true soldier. Having received his commission from the Army in 1993 after graduating from the University of Guam, Ofeciar went on to earn a master's in finance from Syracuse. His duties posted him all over the world, most recently with the formidable 1st Infantry Division out of Fort Riley, Kansas.

"Major Ofeciar served with flawless distinction as a leader of a dedicated training team responsible for working with the Afghan Police," solemnly announced Major General Donald Goldhorn, commandant of the Guam National Guard.

Ofeciar during his lifetime was many things to the many people who had the privilege of knowing him - jokester, confidant, steadfast listener, that comforting smile when you needed someone to be there for you, and that type of person that would call you out of the blue and welcome you over, even after years of being away. "To his family, friends and all those whose lives were touched by this extraordinary man," continued Camacho, "I want you to know that the people of Guam stand with you as we remember the life and the legacy of this brave soldier. Our sincerest condolences and our deepest gratitude and our support during this very difficult time."

But the history he helped to forge and the flag he gave his life to defend doesn't shield the pain felt by those he leaves behind. His parents, in-laws, and scores of acquaintances shed tears, both for the man that's no longer with us, but also with pride for the manner in which he gave his life. Hank literally died doing what he lived to do.

Henry San Nicolas Ofeciar will be laid to rest been this Saturday, with final masses to be held from 9-12 at the San Miguel Catholic Church. Ofeciar's death is the sixth life lost in the year 2007 with Guam roots, and the ninth from the Micronesia region. Since the conflict in the Middle East broke out in 2003, twenty-three servicemen have paid the ultimate sacrifice. He's is also the second person to die from Talofofo.