So good to see all of you. Lets keep posting. I think that our support of Athena and Joe's family is more important during the future than ever.
Check out this article on our friend-
http://rightcrosspuns.blogspot.com/2007/11/trojan-pride-and-sadness.html
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Post from Seth's girlfriend, Joyce
Hi everyone,
It was wonderful meeting all of you this weekend. I tried to take some photos from our weekend of celebrating the life of Joe, one of the most remarkable people I ever had the honor of knowing--albeit for a regrettably brief period of time.
Unfortunately I didn't capture nearly as many moments or people as I hoped, but here is my contribution to the batch.
Photos from Friday and Saturday can be found at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/55777114@N00/
I also posted a video of the team's SoCal spellout in honor of Joe at Beaches. (I started recording a little late and missed the Hulk Hogan to the right and left portion, but it's still moving nonethless.) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLCPUOlb_A8
Hopefully everyone is back home safely by now, and may the time before you all see each other again pass swiftly.
Me ke aloha,
Joyce
It was wonderful meeting all of you this weekend. I tried to take some photos from our weekend of celebrating the life of Joe, one of the most remarkable people I ever had the honor of knowing--albeit for a regrettably brief period of time.
Unfortunately I didn't capture nearly as many moments or people as I hoped, but here is my contribution to the batch.
Photos from Friday and Saturday can be found at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/55777114@N00/
I also posted a video of the team's SoCal spellout in honor of Joe at Beaches. (I started recording a little late and missed the Hulk Hogan to the right and left portion, but it's still moving nonethless.) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLCPUOlb_A8
Hopefully everyone is back home safely by now, and may the time before you all see each other again pass swiftly.
Me ke aloha,
Joyce
Monday, November 12, 2007
From Jeff Lee,
The one single thing I remember most about our friend Joe is his smile. You all know what I am talking about, just as we all know about the already referenced Bear Hugs. I think this smile is extremely well represented in the picture on this blog titled, "Joe and Josh", down towards the bottom. Joe had this smile on whenever I saw him. On the way to class, on the way to workout, during workout, and most of all, outside of the school and swimming worlds when we were all just taking it easy. Joe was the most sincere and loyal friend I have ever had. From the first time I met him on my recruiting trip, he was always genuinely concerned about how other people were doing. My first year at SC, he was constantly in the freshman dorms helping us with this or that, and just trying to make us feel part of the family that he was so proud a part of. It worked! He somehow took all of us freshman at the same time under his wing and helped show us the ropes.
I remember one time in particular when Joe didn't have his famous smile on his face. It was September 11th, 2001, and we were standing in the Lyon Center lobby after a pre-AM-workout run. Joe, myself, and a few others stood there staring at the TV in complete shock. I remember the look of both anger and sadness on Joe's face, and I understood right then how he had been affected. Several years later when Joe decided to join the Green Berets, I wasn't surprised, because I know what a dedicated, loyal, and devoted man Joe is. He decided that he wanted to do something special (and we are not just talking about anything...), and he did it. I have a lot to learn from all of my experiences with Joe, and I am honored to be a friend of his.
I have emailed on a semi-consistent basis with Joe over the past several years, and I was so happy for him when I heard about his experiences in training and other exercises en route to being a Green Beret. I was so happy every time I got a reply back from him because I knew he probably didn't have unlimited access to a computer. And still after a few years of a pure email relationship, the first line in his emails to me were always, "It was such a treat to hear from you..." That always made me smile, and I will miss dearly those emails.
My heart goes out to all Joe's family and friends.
Godspeed Joseph Curreri!
Love ya,
Jeff Lee
I remember one time in particular when Joe didn't have his famous smile on his face. It was September 11th, 2001, and we were standing in the Lyon Center lobby after a pre-AM-workout run. Joe, myself, and a few others stood there staring at the TV in complete shock. I remember the look of both anger and sadness on Joe's face, and I understood right then how he had been affected. Several years later when Joe decided to join the Green Berets, I wasn't surprised, because I know what a dedicated, loyal, and devoted man Joe is. He decided that he wanted to do something special (and we are not just talking about anything...), and he did it. I have a lot to learn from all of my experiences with Joe, and I am honored to be a friend of his.
I have emailed on a semi-consistent basis with Joe over the past several years, and I was so happy for him when I heard about his experiences in training and other exercises en route to being a Green Beret. I was so happy every time I got a reply back from him because I knew he probably didn't have unlimited access to a computer. And still after a few years of a pure email relationship, the first line in his emails to me were always, "It was such a treat to hear from you..." That always made me smile, and I will miss dearly those emails.
My heart goes out to all Joe's family and friends.
Godspeed Joseph Curreri!
Love ya,
Jeff Lee
From Bill Jewell
Dear Family and Friends,
During my tenure at USC (1999 to 2005) I was fortunate to have coached and mentored an outstanding group of men and women who have matured rapidly into fine adults. I feel very fortunate that many of these individuals have included me in their lives and shared the wisdom they have gained in their journey since college graduation. One person especially close to my heart is Joe who I would have to consider the champion of commitment and dedication. When I learned initially that Joe was not on scholarship and was financing his entire USC education because he believed in the high value of his chosen path, I gained enormous respect for this tough young man from Baltimore. It took a while for us to really connect and talk about his life and dreams but once he made up his mind to join the U.S Army Joe became extremely focused and passionate and was able to share his dreams with me often.
Many would never guess that initially Joe was rejected from enlisting for medical reasons (lower back injury- weight lifting) in the Army after graduating from USC. It was this event that brought us together in an effort to solve the problem. Joe asked me to write a convincing letter that would create a waiver by the Army Medical Examiners and allow Joe to pursue his dream of becoming a Ranger. The act of writing offered me the time to reflect and consider all the factors needed to create a purpose and it was through this process that I gained the ultimate knowledge about Joe’s character, passions, determination plus his ability to take on any challenge. I have rarely met any person of his equal and now I feel his loss deeply. I have been touched by a real man and feel fortunate to have been the benefactor of Joe’s wisdom and convictions.
I will miss Joe dearly for the rest of my life. I love all you guys and I really appreciate the efforts of all who have expressed their feelings with such a meaningful conviction.
With my sincere and deepest sympathy,
Bill Jewell
During my tenure at USC (1999 to 2005) I was fortunate to have coached and mentored an outstanding group of men and women who have matured rapidly into fine adults. I feel very fortunate that many of these individuals have included me in their lives and shared the wisdom they have gained in their journey since college graduation. One person especially close to my heart is Joe who I would have to consider the champion of commitment and dedication. When I learned initially that Joe was not on scholarship and was financing his entire USC education because he believed in the high value of his chosen path, I gained enormous respect for this tough young man from Baltimore. It took a while for us to really connect and talk about his life and dreams but once he made up his mind to join the U.S Army Joe became extremely focused and passionate and was able to share his dreams with me often.
Many would never guess that initially Joe was rejected from enlisting for medical reasons (lower back injury- weight lifting) in the Army after graduating from USC. It was this event that brought us together in an effort to solve the problem. Joe asked me to write a convincing letter that would create a waiver by the Army Medical Examiners and allow Joe to pursue his dream of becoming a Ranger. The act of writing offered me the time to reflect and consider all the factors needed to create a purpose and it was through this process that I gained the ultimate knowledge about Joe’s character, passions, determination plus his ability to take on any challenge. I have rarely met any person of his equal and now I feel his loss deeply. I have been touched by a real man and feel fortunate to have been the benefactor of Joe’s wisdom and convictions.
I will miss Joe dearly for the rest of my life. I love all you guys and I really appreciate the efforts of all who have expressed their feelings with such a meaningful conviction.
With my sincere and deepest sympathy,
Bill Jewell
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
From Bob Martinez,
Well I don’t know where to begin talking about a true patriot and real hero. I will ever forget being a freshman during our week of “Team Bonding,” I was scared to death of the older upperclassmen, sitting down in the basement of “the house.” Joe was leading us in some of our “activities” and I remember thinking how gnarly this guy was. So full of passion for his beloved ‘SC. Well as life progressed I got to know the compassion and genuine love for his boys that Joe had.
I had the honor of living in the house for a summer. I have the fondest memories of that time. Joe and I both had the brilliant idea of getting dogs, I remember the summer afternoons sitting on the back porch of the house watching Bishop and Elvis run around. Bishop being more interested in rocks, then being chased by Elvis. Sitting out back and playing some shoes having a beer and loving life.
After I left school I lost touch with most of the people from ‘SC but I had the pleasure of seeing Joe and his then fiancé Athena several times in the South Bay. I saw him when he was working in some cubical job shuffling papers, I couldn’t help but think how Joe was destined to do more and how hard it must have been for him. He was destined to be great, and he truly achieved this in life. I found out that he had enlisted and was proud to call a man that brave friend. He was the kind of guy who would run through a brick wall. It made me feel safe and proud to know that Joe was out there fighting for us.
Joe was one of the most genuine true and loyal people I have ever met. He was a true role model and great man; I can only hope that my son can be like Joe when he is a man. We will never forget our brother
Deepest Sympathy and love
Bob Martinez
I had the honor of living in the house for a summer. I have the fondest memories of that time. Joe and I both had the brilliant idea of getting dogs, I remember the summer afternoons sitting on the back porch of the house watching Bishop and Elvis run around. Bishop being more interested in rocks, then being chased by Elvis. Sitting out back and playing some shoes having a beer and loving life.
After I left school I lost touch with most of the people from ‘SC but I had the pleasure of seeing Joe and his then fiancé Athena several times in the South Bay. I saw him when he was working in some cubical job shuffling papers, I couldn’t help but think how Joe was destined to do more and how hard it must have been for him. He was destined to be great, and he truly achieved this in life. I found out that he had enlisted and was proud to call a man that brave friend. He was the kind of guy who would run through a brick wall. It made me feel safe and proud to know that Joe was out there fighting for us.
Joe was one of the most genuine true and loyal people I have ever met. He was a true role model and great man; I can only hope that my son can be like Joe when he is a man. We will never forget our brother
Deepest Sympathy and love
Bob Martinez
From Warkentin
Tribute to Joe from Mark Warkentin
I lived with Joe in the dorms our freshmen year at USC, and the times that we spent together in the dorms are the fondest memories of my college career. It was an exhausting year because it was so overwhelmingly emotional, and Joe would rightly be described as the leading force that made the year what it was.
During that year, the men’s freshmen swim class did almost everything together. We rose in the morning together, endured the training together, ate every meal together, and spent the majority of our free time as one large moving entity. And if 20 hours a day wasn’t enough, freshmen curriculum often found us in the same classes. That year I remember Joe being involved in nearly every aspect of every day of my life.
Looking back, to me the most striking thing about Joe’s character was his desire to live in the moment. We all have goals and dreams, but most of the time they are associated with an accomplishment that can be claimed or described. In college we sought to graduate and in swimming we sought to win races. Both were goals that were endured, and hopefully achieved, but seldom were they enjoyed or appreciated until after the fact. I look back on my college memories with fondness, but I was completely unaware of my joy at the time. What I realize now is that Joe wanted to live his college experience with the goal of living every moment, knowing that the journey – not the destination - was the enjoyment. He wanted to graduate, and he wanted to swim fast, but his true goal was to experience the process.
I write all of that to preface the following point: that Joe was the leader of the freshmen class. For myself, and I am sure at least a few others of the group, our first year at USC is what we remember when we think of college life, and Joe will forever be the catalyst of our memories. Joe realized the uniqueness of the moment we were in and he wanted to make sure it was experienced. Joe led every major decision that we made, from the mundane (what time we would all meet at EVK for dinner) to the dramatic (our response to initiation turmoil). He was involved in every major discussion and argument and he was usually the last one in our dorm quad to go to bed. Joe devoted his all of his time and passion to the other guys in the group that year, and I cannot thank him enough for making those sacrifices.
A few quick memories that come to mind: Bond, my goodness, Bond. All night long it seemed, until our eyes were fuzzy. EVK, every meal. Every-single-freaking-meal. The entire group together, breaking bread, on a daily basis. Arguing, complaining, bickering, laughing, sharing, supporting – those meals quickly became family like, and I cannot visualize any of them without Joe. Sunday morning waffles. Sitting there at EVK, for hours, enjoying the stories that we each had from the night before. Joe often had the most interesting story, but if he did not, he was eager to experience the glory of someone else’s moment. BEAN. Joe even brought passion to the stupidest thing ever. I actually spent time arguing with Joe about BEAN. Joe hiding my tooth. I was so angry I could cry, and I did, but I couldn’t help but laugh as well. Preparing to go to parties, standing in front of the mirror, admiring our 70’s outfits. Recruit trips, and seeing Joe sleeping on the couch in the common room, giving up his bed to the recruit. The Parties. Everyone knew that Joe was a little Ilika in the making, and that someday that torch would be passed to the next party planner. The torch was indeed passed, and for the next few years Joe was the host of the biggest and best semi-organized events at USC. The first night of initiation, and the fact that Joe was actually enjoying the terrible experience.
There’s more, there’s so much more. In the time that I spent with Joe I can say that I lived dramatically. It was great and terrible at the same time, but it was memorable regardless. I give Joe the credit for making those memories possible for me.
Mark Warkentin
I lived with Joe in the dorms our freshmen year at USC, and the times that we spent together in the dorms are the fondest memories of my college career. It was an exhausting year because it was so overwhelmingly emotional, and Joe would rightly be described as the leading force that made the year what it was.
During that year, the men’s freshmen swim class did almost everything together. We rose in the morning together, endured the training together, ate every meal together, and spent the majority of our free time as one large moving entity. And if 20 hours a day wasn’t enough, freshmen curriculum often found us in the same classes. That year I remember Joe being involved in nearly every aspect of every day of my life.
Looking back, to me the most striking thing about Joe’s character was his desire to live in the moment. We all have goals and dreams, but most of the time they are associated with an accomplishment that can be claimed or described. In college we sought to graduate and in swimming we sought to win races. Both were goals that were endured, and hopefully achieved, but seldom were they enjoyed or appreciated until after the fact. I look back on my college memories with fondness, but I was completely unaware of my joy at the time. What I realize now is that Joe wanted to live his college experience with the goal of living every moment, knowing that the journey – not the destination - was the enjoyment. He wanted to graduate, and he wanted to swim fast, but his true goal was to experience the process.
I write all of that to preface the following point: that Joe was the leader of the freshmen class. For myself, and I am sure at least a few others of the group, our first year at USC is what we remember when we think of college life, and Joe will forever be the catalyst of our memories. Joe realized the uniqueness of the moment we were in and he wanted to make sure it was experienced. Joe led every major decision that we made, from the mundane (what time we would all meet at EVK for dinner) to the dramatic (our response to initiation turmoil). He was involved in every major discussion and argument and he was usually the last one in our dorm quad to go to bed. Joe devoted his all of his time and passion to the other guys in the group that year, and I cannot thank him enough for making those sacrifices.
A few quick memories that come to mind: Bond, my goodness, Bond. All night long it seemed, until our eyes were fuzzy. EVK, every meal. Every-single-freaking-meal. The entire group together, breaking bread, on a daily basis. Arguing, complaining, bickering, laughing, sharing, supporting – those meals quickly became family like, and I cannot visualize any of them without Joe. Sunday morning waffles. Sitting there at EVK, for hours, enjoying the stories that we each had from the night before. Joe often had the most interesting story, but if he did not, he was eager to experience the glory of someone else’s moment. BEAN. Joe even brought passion to the stupidest thing ever. I actually spent time arguing with Joe about BEAN. Joe hiding my tooth. I was so angry I could cry, and I did, but I couldn’t help but laugh as well. Preparing to go to parties, standing in front of the mirror, admiring our 70’s outfits. Recruit trips, and seeing Joe sleeping on the couch in the common room, giving up his bed to the recruit. The Parties. Everyone knew that Joe was a little Ilika in the making, and that someday that torch would be passed to the next party planner. The torch was indeed passed, and for the next few years Joe was the host of the biggest and best semi-organized events at USC. The first night of initiation, and the fact that Joe was actually enjoying the terrible experience.
There’s more, there’s so much more. In the time that I spent with Joe I can say that I lived dramatically. It was great and terrible at the same time, but it was memorable regardless. I give Joe the credit for making those memories possible for me.
Mark Warkentin
Monday, November 5, 2007
From Dave Ringe
Joe,
To reflect on you is an awkward thing for me. I wasn't as close to you
as some here might have been - I wasn't lucky enough to live with you or
even hang out with you outside of swimming that much. Like others, its
had been awhile since the last time I got to speak with you - I think it
was about a year ago when you were on campus one morning before a
football game or alumni relays. Still, you made enough of an impact on
my life in the 3+ years we swam together to make me want to share what I
can in the hopes that it would honor you and those close to you.
You were single-handedly responsible for my first memory as a Trojan.
On my recruiting trip you and the guys took me to Hooters where after
gorging ourselves with wings, our waitress proceeded to teach some of us
how to 'properly' use our napkins at my request (the way I'm writing it
sounds more debaucherous than it was, but its hard to describe any
better than that). Anyway, this must have scored me some points because
you promptly stood up and belted "that boy's comin to 'SC." For someone
who grew up in a sheltered life in a small town, this meant a lot to me
to see someone genuinely want me to be a part of their team. It was a
big reason why I became a Trojan. When you hear people talk about 'it's
the team that made me come to 'SC', you are who they are referring to.
Speaking of team, you were the epitome of it. Somehow you were ALWAYS
involved in initiation, not because of the fun torture we got to put the
freshman through, but because of the team-building aspect of it. You
got the point of the whole thing and got pissed when others didn't
respect it. Oh, and you seemed to like extracurricular stretching a lot
too. Not sure how much team-building that was, but I remember you were
really good at it and it made me laugh.
One of the other things I remember about you was your intensity. If
there's anything anyone could learn from you, it was how to be intense.
You were intense in how much you cared about people and how you
approached everything. If it was the weight room, you were intense. If
it was in the pool, you were intense. If he was on the pool deck, you
were intense. If it was Stanford, you were boiling. If it was telling
people what you thought, you were intense. Even a few months ago when
you reaffirmed what you were doing, you were intense. You seemed to
have a passion for life that I don't see everyday. Its almost ironic
that you are the first person I've known relatively well that's passed
away. Your short life has reiterated to me that life is short and that
we need to be intense. I don't know all of the details of how you
passed, but it sounds like you went doing something you loved. That's
something I can only hope to achieve when that day comes.
Thanks Joe - for being fearless and for serving the rest of us in many
ways that most of us never could, in the pool and out.
I know you'll do it anyways, but Fight On,
Ringer
To reflect on you is an awkward thing for me. I wasn't as close to you
as some here might have been - I wasn't lucky enough to live with you or
even hang out with you outside of swimming that much. Like others, its
had been awhile since the last time I got to speak with you - I think it
was about a year ago when you were on campus one morning before a
football game or alumni relays. Still, you made enough of an impact on
my life in the 3+ years we swam together to make me want to share what I
can in the hopes that it would honor you and those close to you.
You were single-handedly responsible for my first memory as a Trojan.
On my recruiting trip you and the guys took me to Hooters where after
gorging ourselves with wings, our waitress proceeded to teach some of us
how to 'properly' use our napkins at my request (the way I'm writing it
sounds more debaucherous than it was, but its hard to describe any
better than that). Anyway, this must have scored me some points because
you promptly stood up and belted "that boy's comin to 'SC." For someone
who grew up in a sheltered life in a small town, this meant a lot to me
to see someone genuinely want me to be a part of their team. It was a
big reason why I became a Trojan. When you hear people talk about 'it's
the team that made me come to 'SC', you are who they are referring to.
Speaking of team, you were the epitome of it. Somehow you were ALWAYS
involved in initiation, not because of the fun torture we got to put the
freshman through, but because of the team-building aspect of it. You
got the point of the whole thing and got pissed when others didn't
respect it. Oh, and you seemed to like extracurricular stretching a lot
too. Not sure how much team-building that was, but I remember you were
really good at it and it made me laugh.
One of the other things I remember about you was your intensity. If
there's anything anyone could learn from you, it was how to be intense.
You were intense in how much you cared about people and how you
approached everything. If it was the weight room, you were intense. If
it was in the pool, you were intense. If he was on the pool deck, you
were intense. If it was Stanford, you were boiling. If it was telling
people what you thought, you were intense. Even a few months ago when
you reaffirmed what you were doing, you were intense. You seemed to
have a passion for life that I don't see everyday. Its almost ironic
that you are the first person I've known relatively well that's passed
away. Your short life has reiterated to me that life is short and that
we need to be intense. I don't know all of the details of how you
passed, but it sounds like you went doing something you loved. That's
something I can only hope to achieve when that day comes.
Thanks Joe - for being fearless and for serving the rest of us in many
ways that most of us never could, in the pool and out.
I know you'll do it anyways, but Fight On,
Ringer
From Brian Whipple
Before the tears came last week, I just sat in shock, trying to put into words what Joey meant to me. My girlfriend, Katie, summed it up best when she said, “Joe was just…he was your hero.”
Joe was the guy I always bragged to my Villanova friends about. They knew him simply as “my best friend from high school who swims at USC”, and later as “my best friend from high school who is a Green Beret”. Joe was the guy I ate lunch with everyday for four years (and the only one who ate more than me). I grew up with Joe, I came of age with Joe. From age 14 to age 18, it felt like we shared everything. From bridge jumping, to concerts, to our annual rafting trips, history class, crab feasts, skipping school to go the re-release of Star Wars, New Years parties, and the North Carolina shore, some of my best memories were time spent with Joe.
We had many fun times, but my favorite times were always a little more serious. From Kairos, our senior year; to long spiritual and political debates; to deciding where to go to college; to hearing the joy in his voice when he introduced me to Athena; to him telling me he had been Confirmed; many of the most important decisions and discussions in my life were with Joey.
He had an incredibly strong will, a determination to succeed and a passion for life unlike anyone I have ever known. As cliché as it sounds, I really do wish I had half the self-determination and courage of conviction that Joe had. For all the hardness of his exterior, his love for Athena, his family, his country, his school, and his friends were overwhelming.
As sad as I have been for the past week for Joe’s family and for myself, I take strength in the knowledge that heaven has gained a hero, and I look forward to seeing him again.
Joe was the guy I always bragged to my Villanova friends about. They knew him simply as “my best friend from high school who swims at USC”, and later as “my best friend from high school who is a Green Beret”. Joe was the guy I ate lunch with everyday for four years (and the only one who ate more than me). I grew up with Joe, I came of age with Joe. From age 14 to age 18, it felt like we shared everything. From bridge jumping, to concerts, to our annual rafting trips, history class, crab feasts, skipping school to go the re-release of Star Wars, New Years parties, and the North Carolina shore, some of my best memories were time spent with Joe.
We had many fun times, but my favorite times were always a little more serious. From Kairos, our senior year; to long spiritual and political debates; to deciding where to go to college; to hearing the joy in his voice when he introduced me to Athena; to him telling me he had been Confirmed; many of the most important decisions and discussions in my life were with Joey.
He had an incredibly strong will, a determination to succeed and a passion for life unlike anyone I have ever known. As cliché as it sounds, I really do wish I had half the self-determination and courage of conviction that Joe had. For all the hardness of his exterior, his love for Athena, his family, his country, his school, and his friends were overwhelming.
As sad as I have been for the past week for Joe’s family and for myself, I take strength in the knowledge that heaven has gained a hero, and I look forward to seeing him again.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Tribute from Ahmad,
It has been a few days now since I came across the jaw-dropping email notifying loved ones that our beloved brother had passed on. And the tears finally hit me hard after reading all the posts on this site and the articles from Baltimore and Maryland, but most of all Kristine’s post opened the flood gates.
Joe, as you all know, was passionate and intense but what struck me most about him was how sensitive he was. Under the tough guy mold he was really a softy who loved family, friends and protecting all of them. Joe and I would discuss a lot of political issues and deep stuff, but we also shared likeness to kids memories of Star Wars and Back to the Future films…lol.
Over the years whenever I had a chance to get to the US we’d either meet up or chat on the phone. Only this year he sent me a long email detailing that he was in the South Pacific and wouldn’t be able to get in touch until this fall. The last time I met with him personally was in Gypsy Café in Westwood, I invited him to dinner, and we discussed the interesting next step in his life the army. It was a great night and will not forget it or the bear hug at the end J.
He always mentioned his loving wife Athena and looked fondly at building his own family and household. God didn’t intend that for you my brother Joe, but as I was reminded by Kristine’s post, you will live on in all our households for the friend you are and the man you became. Having two kids now, that is a challenge for all of us: how to get our kids to be so compassionate, determined and loving and my hat is off to the Curreri’s on the job they did with Joe. He welcomed Nadya, my wife, like she he knew her for years. When I told her of the news she couldn’t believe we’d never be able to go out and discuss the world again.
The year I spent with Joe and the guys in the house was classic and I’ll cherish those memories for a lifetime and beyond. That U2 song “Stuck in a Moment” just popped in my head. Lol…Vendt you remember singing it with Joe and Tyler upstairs? Man we sucked J
What I admired about you most Joe was you always faced the challenges thrown in your way and you always threw yourself to help loved ones. It is only fitting that the last email from Joe was to give out Mikey's address to friends. I am so proud that we were able to discuss the matters that we did over the years and only yearn that I could have more of those in the future. But as Ryo stated in one of the below comments I’ll “see you around.”
Your brother and fellow Trojan,
Ahmad aka “Aak”
Joe, as you all know, was passionate and intense but what struck me most about him was how sensitive he was. Under the tough guy mold he was really a softy who loved family, friends and protecting all of them. Joe and I would discuss a lot of political issues and deep stuff, but we also shared likeness to kids memories of Star Wars and Back to the Future films…lol.
Over the years whenever I had a chance to get to the US we’d either meet up or chat on the phone. Only this year he sent me a long email detailing that he was in the South Pacific and wouldn’t be able to get in touch until this fall. The last time I met with him personally was in Gypsy Café in Westwood, I invited him to dinner, and we discussed the interesting next step in his life the army. It was a great night and will not forget it or the bear hug at the end J.
He always mentioned his loving wife Athena and looked fondly at building his own family and household. God didn’t intend that for you my brother Joe, but as I was reminded by Kristine’s post, you will live on in all our households for the friend you are and the man you became. Having two kids now, that is a challenge for all of us: how to get our kids to be so compassionate, determined and loving and my hat is off to the Curreri’s on the job they did with Joe. He welcomed Nadya, my wife, like she he knew her for years. When I told her of the news she couldn’t believe we’d never be able to go out and discuss the world again.
The year I spent with Joe and the guys in the house was classic and I’ll cherish those memories for a lifetime and beyond. That U2 song “Stuck in a Moment” just popped in my head. Lol…Vendt you remember singing it with Joe and Tyler upstairs? Man we sucked J
What I admired about you most Joe was you always faced the challenges thrown in your way and you always threw yourself to help loved ones. It is only fitting that the last email from Joe was to give out Mikey's address to friends. I am so proud that we were able to discuss the matters that we did over the years and only yearn that I could have more of those in the future. But as Ryo stated in one of the below comments I’ll “see you around.”
Your brother and fellow Trojan,
Ahmad aka “Aak”
Unofficial Service Date Change
Hey Everyone,
Erik and I have decided to change the date of the unofficial service to Saturday, November 10th. We're very sorry if this causes an inconvenience for any of you, but we think it works best if the unofficial services (Pantry & Beaches) are the day after the funeral. Here's the schedule again:
Wednesday, November 7th
-viewing (email Erik for details)
Friday, November 9th
-The Funeral and Military Honors Burial (email Erik for details)
Saturday, November 10th
-Pantry - 11 AM
-Beaches - 2 pm to 5 pm
Remember to email Erik for the exact date and time of the funeral services (eagle2384@aol.com).
Again, sorry for the inconvenience and we hope you all can make it.
Thanks,
Josh
Erik and I have decided to change the date of the unofficial service to Saturday, November 10th. We're very sorry if this causes an inconvenience for any of you, but we think it works best if the unofficial services (Pantry & Beaches) are the day after the funeral. Here's the schedule again:
Wednesday, November 7th
-viewing (email Erik for details)
Friday, November 9th
-The Funeral and Military Honors Burial (email Erik for details)
Saturday, November 10th
-Pantry - 11 AM
-Beaches - 2 pm to 5 pm
Remember to email Erik for the exact date and time of the funeral services (eagle2384@aol.com).
Again, sorry for the inconvenience and we hope you all can make it.
Thanks,
Josh
From Adam Rokoff
I forgot how lucky I am to live the life I live. What I would not give to have one more beer with my friend Joe. He was the epitome of a teammate, friend, and brother. Joseph Curreri is one of the biggest reasons I have many of the best memories.
When I transferred to USC I had no intention of being part of the swim team. I just wanted to be closer to home, get a degree, and move back to San Diego. The first few weeks of school were tough. I did not have many friends. I was living with two random roommates in a small one bedroom apartment on Adams and really just hated life. After missing the beginning of initiation (almost joining a frat, thank you Joe for talking some sense into me) Joe came and spoke with me. He told me how important it was to participate and what it meant to be part of the Trojan swim team. Right then I knew Joe was special. I mean what swimmer in his right mind you go out of his way to make sure some scrub walk-on diver was part of the team. That turned out to be one of the greatest weeks of my life and it was the first time I truly understood what “Team” really meant. I have my best friends because Joe decided to give me a chance. Every year during initiation Joe would lead the charge; instilling heart, loyalty, and determination into the next generation of Trojan swimmers. His unyielding dedication to keeping the Trojan spirit alive truly exemplified Joe. Whether it was welcoming in the freshmen or sending the seniors out at AMF, Joe made sure we all knew what it was to be a true teammate, friend, and brother.
After that Joe and I became very close. Every time I saw him I would smile. We would always joke with each other and laugh about how I was the most inflexible diver and never made morning workout.
Joe and Bishop. His commitment to that dog was unlike anything I had every seen before. They could read each other’s minds. I remember that first day he got Bishop. Joe always dreamed of owning a majestic and noble pure bred German Shepard, but instead he got Bishop. Even as a puppy the dog was a little different. He reminded me of Santa’s Little Helper from The Simpsons. He kind of looked like a German Shepard but sure did not act like one. The dog thought his propose in life was to protect Joe, love everyone else, and kill rocks. I will always remember the loud cries of “No Bishop” coming through my window at the swimmer house. I will never forget seeing them come back from their long runs together. Bishop would be so tired that Joe would have to drag him through the door. Most people would have given up on that kind of responsibility, but Joe did not. When Joe realized that he could no longer give Bishop the quality of life he deserved he made sure that he found a place where Bishop would be truly be happy.
One of my favorite memories was a story Joe told me about when he borrowed my car, “The Lex,” to take Athena on a date. He talked about how special she was and how he instantly knew she was the one. I never really believed in true love until I saw the look in his eyes when he spoke of Athena. I was so happy for Joe and knew his life was heading in the right direction.
Joe could make something out of nothing. What he did with the closet at the Yellow Sub was simply amazing. He kept it spotless, which is very difficult if you’re living with Erik. It was perfect for Joe and Bishop. It was just another example of Joe’s ability to motivate and make the best out any situation. He never let life’s challenges get in the way of his goals. He fought for everything and never gave up. His closet was so creative that I too decided that I could live in a closet, at my buddies house in Hermosa. It did no quite workout the way Joe’s room did. I mean, he had “Game.” Who else could bring the girl of their dreams back to a closet and have her still stick by his side?
Another great story was when Joe randomly called me up one night in San Diego. He was in town visiting some of his Navy Seal buddies and he wanted to grab a drink and introduce me to his friends. We met up and started to drink. The first thing we did was take shots. These were no ordinary shots they were special. I look over at Joe and he had this smirk on his face. I saw his buddies start to line up some salt, limes, and tequila. I thought to myself, “What’s the big deal”. Then Joe explained that these guys are Navy Seals and they take tequila shots a little differently. Then he explained that I must snort the salt, squirt lime juice in my eye, and then take the tequila shot. It was Joe; I could count on him for anything, he asked me to do it so I did it. After that we all talked. His buddies told stories about fighting the war on terror in Afghanistan and their experiences as a Navy Seal. Right then I knew Joe would figure out a way to realizing his dream of serving his county.
Over the last couple of years I only spoke with Joe a few times. The last time I spoke with Joe we were at a football game. I decide to go by myself and, as I was walking to grab my ticket from will call, I ran into Joe and Athena. We hungout for a few minutes and talked about how things were going. I remember thinking to myself how proud I was to have him as a friend and that if I could only be half the man he is I would truly be amazing. Part of the reason I did not keep in touch was because I was so proud of what he was accomplishing and that I was ashamed I was so mediocre. I knew he was on a path to greatness and I did not want to bring him down. Such a great man deserved to be surrounded by great people. I will always regret this. What I failed to realize is that Joe loved his friends no matter what. If you were lucky enough to be one, he was always happy to hear from you no matter what.
Every time someone would bring up the military or the war on terror I always tell them about my friend Joe and how special he is. I felt Joe was living a life that only a few could ever dream of, a selfless life committed to the betterment of the world. I was so proud to have him as a friend and made sure everyone knew that my buddy was a Green Beret. Joe understood how special all these things we all take for granted are and he was willing to die to protect that. I will always remember his commitment to country, family, friends, and tradition; his creativity, passion, and wisdom.
I will still talk about my brother Joe every chance I get. I will talk about how America is free because we have people like Joe protecting us. I truly feel honored to have had such a special person in my life. His name is Joseph Curreri. He died to make all of our lives better. I have lost one of the greatest men I will every meet. I will never forget you and what you taught me about being a Trojan, an American, and a man. My heart is broken and I will always love you. Rest in peace my brother.
Adam Patrick Rokoff
When I transferred to USC I had no intention of being part of the swim team. I just wanted to be closer to home, get a degree, and move back to San Diego. The first few weeks of school were tough. I did not have many friends. I was living with two random roommates in a small one bedroom apartment on Adams and really just hated life. After missing the beginning of initiation (almost joining a frat, thank you Joe for talking some sense into me) Joe came and spoke with me. He told me how important it was to participate and what it meant to be part of the Trojan swim team. Right then I knew Joe was special. I mean what swimmer in his right mind you go out of his way to make sure some scrub walk-on diver was part of the team. That turned out to be one of the greatest weeks of my life and it was the first time I truly understood what “Team” really meant. I have my best friends because Joe decided to give me a chance. Every year during initiation Joe would lead the charge; instilling heart, loyalty, and determination into the next generation of Trojan swimmers. His unyielding dedication to keeping the Trojan spirit alive truly exemplified Joe. Whether it was welcoming in the freshmen or sending the seniors out at AMF, Joe made sure we all knew what it was to be a true teammate, friend, and brother.
After that Joe and I became very close. Every time I saw him I would smile. We would always joke with each other and laugh about how I was the most inflexible diver and never made morning workout.
Joe and Bishop. His commitment to that dog was unlike anything I had every seen before. They could read each other’s minds. I remember that first day he got Bishop. Joe always dreamed of owning a majestic and noble pure bred German Shepard, but instead he got Bishop. Even as a puppy the dog was a little different. He reminded me of Santa’s Little Helper from The Simpsons. He kind of looked like a German Shepard but sure did not act like one. The dog thought his propose in life was to protect Joe, love everyone else, and kill rocks. I will always remember the loud cries of “No Bishop” coming through my window at the swimmer house. I will never forget seeing them come back from their long runs together. Bishop would be so tired that Joe would have to drag him through the door. Most people would have given up on that kind of responsibility, but Joe did not. When Joe realized that he could no longer give Bishop the quality of life he deserved he made sure that he found a place where Bishop would be truly be happy.
One of my favorite memories was a story Joe told me about when he borrowed my car, “The Lex,” to take Athena on a date. He talked about how special she was and how he instantly knew she was the one. I never really believed in true love until I saw the look in his eyes when he spoke of Athena. I was so happy for Joe and knew his life was heading in the right direction.
Joe could make something out of nothing. What he did with the closet at the Yellow Sub was simply amazing. He kept it spotless, which is very difficult if you’re living with Erik. It was perfect for Joe and Bishop. It was just another example of Joe’s ability to motivate and make the best out any situation. He never let life’s challenges get in the way of his goals. He fought for everything and never gave up. His closet was so creative that I too decided that I could live in a closet, at my buddies house in Hermosa. It did no quite workout the way Joe’s room did. I mean, he had “Game.” Who else could bring the girl of their dreams back to a closet and have her still stick by his side?
Another great story was when Joe randomly called me up one night in San Diego. He was in town visiting some of his Navy Seal buddies and he wanted to grab a drink and introduce me to his friends. We met up and started to drink. The first thing we did was take shots. These were no ordinary shots they were special. I look over at Joe and he had this smirk on his face. I saw his buddies start to line up some salt, limes, and tequila. I thought to myself, “What’s the big deal”. Then Joe explained that these guys are Navy Seals and they take tequila shots a little differently. Then he explained that I must snort the salt, squirt lime juice in my eye, and then take the tequila shot. It was Joe; I could count on him for anything, he asked me to do it so I did it. After that we all talked. His buddies told stories about fighting the war on terror in Afghanistan and their experiences as a Navy Seal. Right then I knew Joe would figure out a way to realizing his dream of serving his county.
Over the last couple of years I only spoke with Joe a few times. The last time I spoke with Joe we were at a football game. I decide to go by myself and, as I was walking to grab my ticket from will call, I ran into Joe and Athena. We hungout for a few minutes and talked about how things were going. I remember thinking to myself how proud I was to have him as a friend and that if I could only be half the man he is I would truly be amazing. Part of the reason I did not keep in touch was because I was so proud of what he was accomplishing and that I was ashamed I was so mediocre. I knew he was on a path to greatness and I did not want to bring him down. Such a great man deserved to be surrounded by great people. I will always regret this. What I failed to realize is that Joe loved his friends no matter what. If you were lucky enough to be one, he was always happy to hear from you no matter what.
Every time someone would bring up the military or the war on terror I always tell them about my friend Joe and how special he is. I felt Joe was living a life that only a few could ever dream of, a selfless life committed to the betterment of the world. I was so proud to have him as a friend and made sure everyone knew that my buddy was a Green Beret. Joe understood how special all these things we all take for granted are and he was willing to die to protect that. I will always remember his commitment to country, family, friends, and tradition; his creativity, passion, and wisdom.
I will still talk about my brother Joe every chance I get. I will talk about how America is free because we have people like Joe protecting us. I truly feel honored to have had such a special person in my life. His name is Joseph Curreri. He died to make all of our lives better. I have lost one of the greatest men I will every meet. I will never forget you and what you taught me about being a Trojan, an American, and a man. My heart is broken and I will always love you. Rest in peace my brother.
Adam Patrick Rokoff
from Mikey Williams
hey josh i attached some pics that i have of joe and others. he used to send me pics while i was deployed last time. anyway i wish i could be home for all of this but unfortunately im stuck in baghdad. we all know how great of a person he was and im going to miss looking after him ever since he joined the army. he was like my little brother. i tried to guide him and take care of him as much as possible while we were going though our training to set him up for the greatest success. fight on, mikey
From Jay Sayko,
One of the things I most enjoyed doing with Joe was arguing. That may sound a little odd, but there was nothing like really getting into it with him. We got a little heated sometimes, whether it was about something like European history, the latest bill introduced in Congress, or some newspaper article that one of us had read. He was a great person to argue with for two main reasons: first, he was really, really stubborn. I usually consider myself pretty stubborn, but Joe took it to a whole new level. He would never back down, and it made for great fun. Second, Joe was a fantastic listener. No matter how riled up he got, he would always stop and do his best to understand exactly what you were saying. I always appreciated that. In fact, he was a great listener all the time, not just when he was arguing. When Joe asked you how you were doing, he didn’t just space out while you told him, he really listened and really cared about your answer.
Joe was also one of the most honest people I’ve ever met. I’m not talking about whether he would lie when you asked him a question like, “Did you draw on me while I was sleeping last night?” I’m talking about being a straight shooter. If I felt lost and wanted Joe’s opinion on something important, I could count on him telling me what he really thought. To some he might have come off as brash, but I loved that about him. He was unapologetic, and I never felt like I had to make any pretenses around him.
Joe inspired confidence in me. I would often see him when he drove up from Ft. Bragg to DC for a night or two, and he would usually have just completed some ridiculously difficult training. He would say a sentence or two about it and then ask me 25 questions about law school (which I can assure you is not as interesting a topic). He really had nothing to prove around his friends. Just by knowing Joe I knew that he was good at what he did; he certainly didn’t have to explain it to me.
I also loved it when Joe would talk about Athena. I remember he was visiting me in DC once, and we started talking about Athena. For some reason he didn’t have a picture of her, but he had her old USC student ID. Pretty soon, he was showing it to people, saying “Isn’t she beautiful?” We all know that Athena is beautiful, but it was pretty funny to see him walking around holding a student ID with a half inch photo that was badly scratched. People couldn’t help but agree with Joe because he was so earnest. It was really one of the sweetest things I’ve ever seen.
As everyone has said, Joe was intelligent, funny, loyal, and boy did he give great hugs. We always talked about the many things we were going to do together some day, and it’s really difficult to think of not being able to go through those experiences with Joe at my side. Still, I’m pretty sure I know what Joe would tell me to do. He would tell me with absolute honesty and conviction that I should live my life to the fullest, just as he did.
I love you buddy
Jay
Joe was also one of the most honest people I’ve ever met. I’m not talking about whether he would lie when you asked him a question like, “Did you draw on me while I was sleeping last night?” I’m talking about being a straight shooter. If I felt lost and wanted Joe’s opinion on something important, I could count on him telling me what he really thought. To some he might have come off as brash, but I loved that about him. He was unapologetic, and I never felt like I had to make any pretenses around him.
Joe inspired confidence in me. I would often see him when he drove up from Ft. Bragg to DC for a night or two, and he would usually have just completed some ridiculously difficult training. He would say a sentence or two about it and then ask me 25 questions about law school (which I can assure you is not as interesting a topic). He really had nothing to prove around his friends. Just by knowing Joe I knew that he was good at what he did; he certainly didn’t have to explain it to me.
I also loved it when Joe would talk about Athena. I remember he was visiting me in DC once, and we started talking about Athena. For some reason he didn’t have a picture of her, but he had her old USC student ID. Pretty soon, he was showing it to people, saying “Isn’t she beautiful?” We all know that Athena is beautiful, but it was pretty funny to see him walking around holding a student ID with a half inch photo that was badly scratched. People couldn’t help but agree with Joe because he was so earnest. It was really one of the sweetest things I’ve ever seen.
As everyone has said, Joe was intelligent, funny, loyal, and boy did he give great hugs. We always talked about the many things we were going to do together some day, and it’s really difficult to think of not being able to go through those experiences with Joe at my side. Still, I’m pretty sure I know what Joe would tell me to do. He would tell me with absolute honesty and conviction that I should live my life to the fullest, just as he did.
I love you buddy
Jay
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Message from ET
There was no better teammate than Joe. He was the best recruiter, the most spirited and he always made time for others. It was Joe’s character more than his excellence in the pool that earned him team captainship as well as the Josh Illika Spirit Award and Dr All (USC swimming’s spirit leader). His passion for USC swimming and politics are probably the qualities I will remember most about him, though. One time we lost a close meet to Stanford and Joe was so crushed that he left a dent in a locker that would last for about five years. In political arguments he could hold his ground with the best. He was so smart and knowledgeable about current events and politics. Whenever I find myself on the losing end of an argument I think about Joe and how I wished he was there to back me up. Last night I found myself in this situation and was saddened to be reminded of our loss. There is no doubt that this passion and his camaraderie made him as great a soldier as he was a teammate.
To me the most remarkable thing about Joe was his ability to do everything so well—excelling in the classroom, working so hard in the pool and still making the time to be with his team and friends. His well roundedness was enviable and although he was less than a year older than me, he seemed years ahead because he handled everything so well. He was a renaissance man, not just a swimmer.
Although we didn’t talk or email very regularly over the last three years we seemed to run into each other fairly often at USC, a happy accident it always seemed. In hindsight, this was no accident. Joe loved USC and USC swimming and he wanted to swim in McDonald’s Swim Stadium and run into an old friend or coach; it was the kind of friend and teammate he was. In our last email I wished him a happy birthday and he talked about buying a home and even coming back to USC. Thinking about this makes it even harder to imagine he is gone.
We’ll miss you Joe
To me the most remarkable thing about Joe was his ability to do everything so well—excelling in the classroom, working so hard in the pool and still making the time to be with his team and friends. His well roundedness was enviable and although he was less than a year older than me, he seemed years ahead because he handled everything so well. He was a renaissance man, not just a swimmer.
Although we didn’t talk or email very regularly over the last three years we seemed to run into each other fairly often at USC, a happy accident it always seemed. In hindsight, this was no accident. Joe loved USC and USC swimming and he wanted to swim in McDonald’s Swim Stadium and run into an old friend or coach; it was the kind of friend and teammate he was. In our last email I wished him a happy birthday and he talked about buying a home and even coming back to USC. Thinking about this makes it even harder to imagine he is gone.
We’ll miss you Joe
Update on the Memorial Services for Joe
The Viewing will be Wednesday, November 7th.
The Funeral and Military Honors Burial will be held on Friday, November 9th.
For exact locations and times please email me at eagle2384@aol.com
The Funeral and Military Honors Burial will be held on Friday, November 9th.
For exact locations and times please email me at eagle2384@aol.com
UPDATE!
Tonight at 9PM EST (6PM Pacific) on FOX News, 'War stories with Oliver North' will be doing a special on the "War on Terror in the Philippines." Those interested in what Joe was helping fight against may want to watch.
Here's a link to an epsiode description: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,306056,00.html
Here's a link to an epsiode description: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,306056,00.html
from Brad Bridgewater
Josh and Erik,
Thanks for creating a place that we can celebrate Joey's life, and lean on each other for comfort. I can't say anything here that can't be said by a hundred other people, The picture of Joe at Sharkeez is the Joe I will always remember, a huge smile on his face. He lived a big life. He laughed the hardest, smiled the biggest, his bear hugs are the stuff of legend. Joe did nothing half way, he did it all with his whole heart. He was fierce. He was a warrior long before anyone put a uniform on him and asked him to serve his country and defend every one of us. I've spent my life emulating the qualities in others I admire most, and Joe had many. As is true for many of us, the last time I saw Joe was on a visit of his to Dallas and of course he called me to go spend a little time together, and he wanted to introduce me to the woman he loved. When he told me what he was doing, I had the same pride and fear as I did when Mikey gave me the very same talk a few years before. I know the guys I swam next to, and especially Joe, If there was a hard job to be done, a fellow soldier in trouble, or a dangerous situation that needed a hero, I know my friends would be the first ones in and the last ones out. The world needs men like Joe to do the things the rest of us can't or won't do. I will never look at an American flag or a soldier again for the rest of my life without thinking of my friend and brother Joe Curreri, who takes a place of honor on the distinguished list of men and women who have given their lives in the name of freedom. He lives on in all of us, Love you Joe.
BB
Thanks for creating a place that we can celebrate Joey's life, and lean on each other for comfort. I can't say anything here that can't be said by a hundred other people, The picture of Joe at Sharkeez is the Joe I will always remember, a huge smile on his face. He lived a big life. He laughed the hardest, smiled the biggest, his bear hugs are the stuff of legend. Joe did nothing half way, he did it all with his whole heart. He was fierce. He was a warrior long before anyone put a uniform on him and asked him to serve his country and defend every one of us. I've spent my life emulating the qualities in others I admire most, and Joe had many. As is true for many of us, the last time I saw Joe was on a visit of his to Dallas and of course he called me to go spend a little time together, and he wanted to introduce me to the woman he loved. When he told me what he was doing, I had the same pride and fear as I did when Mikey gave me the very same talk a few years before. I know the guys I swam next to, and especially Joe, If there was a hard job to be done, a fellow soldier in trouble, or a dangerous situation that needed a hero, I know my friends would be the first ones in and the last ones out. The world needs men like Joe to do the things the rest of us can't or won't do. I will never look at an American flag or a soldier again for the rest of my life without thinking of my friend and brother Joe Curreri, who takes a place of honor on the distinguished list of men and women who have given their lives in the name of freedom. He lives on in all of us, Love you Joe.
BB
Friday, November 2, 2007
email from Kristine Quance-Julian
Hello Josh & Erik,
Thank you for communicating with us/Jeff regarding Joe. We've really appreciated your heartfelt emails, updates & set-up of the website.
While I trained with Joe for just one short year, it wasn't hard to recognize early on that he was "one of the good guys." I remember enjoying the friendly competitive banter we exchanged each day in the pool.
I've struggled this past week; easily breaking down a couple times a day, especially when I hear songs like Tim McGraw's "Lay Me Down" to Toby Keith's "Courtesy of the Red White & Blue." I go from mourning for his wife & family (who I unfortunately don't even know) to regretting that I didn't keep in touch with him & others after I retired.
Our eight year-old son, Trenton, has caught me crying in the car a few times this last week. He'll look at me with his worried face & ask "mom, are you okay?" I've tried to use the opportunity to tell him about Joe... about the good things everyone's saying about him; that I really don't remember what his times were, the races he won or what he accomplished in the pool. More importantly I enjoyed training beside him each day, that he always worked his hardest & was a noble person is so many ways.
Who really care's about what we accomplish in this sport? That's not what I want to be remembered for. I can only hope that when I'm gone people will say that I was 10% of the person that Joe was.
Again, thank you so much for sharing your stories. I hope that his short life will inspire us to become better people; valuing & reaching out more to friends & family. For selfish reasons, I wish that I had kept him, as well as many others in the swimming world, in my life. We all need the rare Joe Curreri's to remind us of the importance & power of loyalty, sincerity & dedication.
Thank you again for sharing your thoughts. Please let us (Jeff or me) know if we can ever be of help with anything.
With many thanks & a heavy heart,
Kristine Quance-Julian
P.S. Today Trenton, who loves swimming with his friends every day, asked me if he could tell them about Joe... he said he wanted to tell them that his parents & their friends were really sad about their teammate who was in the Army & tralned with his mom at USC. He showed real empathy for me, but at the same time seemed proud that I had so many good things to say about Joe. I can only hope to teach our son the importance of being a good person before being a so-called "important" or "accomplished" person.
Thank you for communicating with us/Jeff regarding Joe. We've really appreciated your heartfelt emails, updates & set-up of the website.
While I trained with Joe for just one short year, it wasn't hard to recognize early on that he was "one of the good guys." I remember enjoying the friendly competitive banter we exchanged each day in the pool.
I've struggled this past week; easily breaking down a couple times a day, especially when I hear songs like Tim McGraw's "Lay Me Down" to Toby Keith's "Courtesy of the Red White & Blue." I go from mourning for his wife & family (who I unfortunately don't even know) to regretting that I didn't keep in touch with him & others after I retired.
Our eight year-old son, Trenton, has caught me crying in the car a few times this last week. He'll look at me with his worried face & ask "mom, are you okay?" I've tried to use the opportunity to tell him about Joe... about the good things everyone's saying about him; that I really don't remember what his times were, the races he won or what he accomplished in the pool. More importantly I enjoyed training beside him each day, that he always worked his hardest & was a noble person is so many ways.
Who really care's about what we accomplish in this sport? That's not what I want to be remembered for. I can only hope that when I'm gone people will say that I was 10% of the person that Joe was.
Again, thank you so much for sharing your stories. I hope that his short life will inspire us to become better people; valuing & reaching out more to friends & family. For selfish reasons, I wish that I had kept him, as well as many others in the swimming world, in my life. We all need the rare Joe Curreri's to remind us of the importance & power of loyalty, sincerity & dedication.
Thank you again for sharing your thoughts. Please let us (Jeff or me) know if we can ever be of help with anything.
With many thanks & a heavy heart,
Kristine Quance-Julian
P.S. Today Trenton, who loves swimming with his friends every day, asked me if he could tell them about Joe... he said he wanted to tell them that his parents & their friends were really sad about their teammate who was in the Army & tralned with his mom at USC. He showed real empathy for me, but at the same time seemed proud that I had so many good things to say about Joe. I can only hope to teach our son the importance of being a good person before being a so-called "important" or "accomplished" person.
email from Jack Roach
Dear Josh,
Your email flooded me with a reminded of now greatful and supportive we all need to be for the men and women who serve our country. Let us never take our freedom for granted. We owe that to Joe and all of the service men who have served us with courage and pride before and after Joe.
My heart weeps for Joe, you Josh and all of the people who he touched during such a short but very impactful life. In my eyes there is no better way to leave this earth then falling for a belief that you feel so very strongly towards. A belief that protects so unselfishly the freedom to live in the greatest country on earth.
I salute Joe and the courage that he lived his life with. He did truly walk the talk. God will bless and care for him and his loved ones.
Joe you fought the good fight and your soul lives on forever. I am a better person for having known you.
Love,
Jack Roach
Your email flooded me with a reminded of now greatful and supportive we all need to be for the men and women who serve our country. Let us never take our freedom for granted. We owe that to Joe and all of the service men who have served us with courage and pride before and after Joe.
My heart weeps for Joe, you Josh and all of the people who he touched during such a short but very impactful life. In my eyes there is no better way to leave this earth then falling for a belief that you feel so very strongly towards. A belief that protects so unselfishly the freedom to live in the greatest country on earth.
I salute Joe and the courage that he lived his life with. He did truly walk the talk. God will bless and care for him and his loved ones.
Joe you fought the good fight and your soul lives on forever. I am a better person for having known you.
Love,
Jack Roach
From Gausman,
......Where do I start??? I first met Joe when I took my recruiting trip to USC. I might not have been USC’s favorite recruit because I wouldn’t shut up about my car (for those of you who can remember), but Joe made me feel like I was apart of the team, he made me feel like I was the #1 recruit in the nation. I think when he heard that I had signed with USC he probably rolled his eyes and said “oh no, that guy who wouldn’t shut up about his car is coming to USC.” When I arrived, Joe had accepted me for who I was and we instantly became friends. Even though I wasn’t your typical/model swimmer, meaning, waking up for “mandatory” morning workouts, not burning the candle at both ends…….lets just say I was no angel, and Joe was always there for me, always stood up for me and always tried his hardest to make me a better person. Even though he was younger then me, I looked to him as an older brother that always had my best interests in mind.
I had the pleasure of living with Joe for 2 years, I wish I could remember each an everyday we spent together, but that would be near impossible. One of the things I do remember is his love for his dog Bishop……………………Bishop……..everybody who knew Joe in college also knew his dog Bishop. That damn dog (granted I’d loved him), but he would always push my/everybody’s buttons. When he would do something wrong and know it, he would just look at you like……WHAT, what are you going to do. There was something about Joe in which he had a special and unique connection with everybody he came in contact with, even that dog. Joe could be 3 blocks away from the house on his way home and Bishop would jump up off the couch (which he wasn’t suppose to be on, he didn’t care) and start running around crazy. We all would look at each other and say “Joe must be close,” and sure enough Joe would come walking through the door. The smile on Joe’s face and the overwhelming happiness he felt when he saw “that dog” was similar to how he felt when he found out he was going to be a Green Beret.
In a sense I feel ashamed that I didn’t keep in contact with Joe more then I did. I would email him about once every month and a half. I did get to talk to him for about 45mins sometime in July and the great thing about it was we picked up where we left off. I told him all about my (single) life in Chicago, my business, my travels, etc. He updated me with everything that was going on in his life. He told me he was so happy doing what he was doing and that he finally has a path in life, a meaning. At the end of our conversation he said “Gausman, I’m so glad some things never change!” We had some great laughs, I told him that even though we don’t talk as much as we should I still love him and think about him all the time. He told me he couldn’t wait to come home in a couple months and it would be great if I could make it out to LA. Well I’m coming to LA to see you Joe, I just wish it were under different circumstances. I love you man.
Living with Joe (and his DOG) my “second” senior year was great, but I hated to see Joe as unhappy as he was. It was Erik, Joe and I. I remember Joe getting up every morning putting on those slacks and collared shirt, preparing himself for a long day in a cubical. Joe in a CUBICAL…..I know it crazy, he freaking hated it. I felt bad because I was enjoying my last year of college and Joe was sitting in a cubical. We talked all the time about how he didn’t know what he was doing with his life and how much he hated his job. Every time I came home from class or from Campus he was glued to the TV watching CNN or other news stations absorbing every piece of information on the war. I always gave him a hard time and started calling him Dad because he would 1. Listen to AM talk radio 2. Watch the news when he got home from work and 3. Look out for me. He was very into what was happening overseas and was determined to become a Navy Seal. Erik and I where there for him when he found out he would never be a Navy Seal because of his back. That was the saddest that I have ever seen him, but he didn’t give up, he was more determined then ever. Then, like Erik said it was the happiest day of his life when he found out he was going to be a Green Beret. Joe wasn’t made for a cubical, he wasn’t put here on this planet to headhunt or pencil push, he was put here to protect us and fight for our country and what he believed in. Joe had the biggest heart of anybody I know and helping those people and protecting those children in the Philippines completed Joe…….(actually Athena, you completed Joe, but you know what I mean) What I’m trying to say is Joe had found his destiny and he passed doing what he loved, for that I honor him even more.
Joe buddy, I miss you, I love you and I wish that I could have one more of those gorilla hugs you are so well known for. My heart goes out to all friends and family.
I had the pleasure of living with Joe for 2 years, I wish I could remember each an everyday we spent together, but that would be near impossible. One of the things I do remember is his love for his dog Bishop……………………Bishop……..everybody who knew Joe in college also knew his dog Bishop. That damn dog (granted I’d loved him), but he would always push my/everybody’s buttons. When he would do something wrong and know it, he would just look at you like……WHAT, what are you going to do. There was something about Joe in which he had a special and unique connection with everybody he came in contact with, even that dog. Joe could be 3 blocks away from the house on his way home and Bishop would jump up off the couch (which he wasn’t suppose to be on, he didn’t care) and start running around crazy. We all would look at each other and say “Joe must be close,” and sure enough Joe would come walking through the door. The smile on Joe’s face and the overwhelming happiness he felt when he saw “that dog” was similar to how he felt when he found out he was going to be a Green Beret.
In a sense I feel ashamed that I didn’t keep in contact with Joe more then I did. I would email him about once every month and a half. I did get to talk to him for about 45mins sometime in July and the great thing about it was we picked up where we left off. I told him all about my (single) life in Chicago, my business, my travels, etc. He updated me with everything that was going on in his life. He told me he was so happy doing what he was doing and that he finally has a path in life, a meaning. At the end of our conversation he said “Gausman, I’m so glad some things never change!” We had some great laughs, I told him that even though we don’t talk as much as we should I still love him and think about him all the time. He told me he couldn’t wait to come home in a couple months and it would be great if I could make it out to LA. Well I’m coming to LA to see you Joe, I just wish it were under different circumstances. I love you man.
Living with Joe (and his DOG) my “second” senior year was great, but I hated to see Joe as unhappy as he was. It was Erik, Joe and I. I remember Joe getting up every morning putting on those slacks and collared shirt, preparing himself for a long day in a cubical. Joe in a CUBICAL…..I know it crazy, he freaking hated it. I felt bad because I was enjoying my last year of college and Joe was sitting in a cubical. We talked all the time about how he didn’t know what he was doing with his life and how much he hated his job. Every time I came home from class or from Campus he was glued to the TV watching CNN or other news stations absorbing every piece of information on the war. I always gave him a hard time and started calling him Dad because he would 1. Listen to AM talk radio 2. Watch the news when he got home from work and 3. Look out for me. He was very into what was happening overseas and was determined to become a Navy Seal. Erik and I where there for him when he found out he would never be a Navy Seal because of his back. That was the saddest that I have ever seen him, but he didn’t give up, he was more determined then ever. Then, like Erik said it was the happiest day of his life when he found out he was going to be a Green Beret. Joe wasn’t made for a cubical, he wasn’t put here on this planet to headhunt or pencil push, he was put here to protect us and fight for our country and what he believed in. Joe had the biggest heart of anybody I know and helping those people and protecting those children in the Philippines completed Joe…….(actually Athena, you completed Joe, but you know what I mean) What I’m trying to say is Joe had found his destiny and he passed doing what he loved, for that I honor him even more.
Joe buddy, I miss you, I love you and I wish that I could have one more of those gorilla hugs you are so well known for. My heart goes out to all friends and family.
Tribute from Seth Meyer,
As we all have, I have struggled immensely over the last week, coming to grips with the idea that one of the greatest men I’ve ever known is gone.
Joe was the first person I met when we came to USC as freshman in 1998. The things I remember of that day are fleeting flashes Joe-dom. His chlorinated, semi-translucent blond mop. The sound of the Allman Brothers pouring from his room in our suite at Flour Towers. Going to our first (lame) frat party on the row together. Laughing as a certain swimmer girl staggered into the suite with her orange underwear reading “flirt” across the front unknowingly on display.
I knew after that day we would long be friends.
One of my favorite memories of Joe was when we went to the USC vs. Notre Dame game together at the Coliseum in 2002, and we were lucky enough to get some really good seats outside the student section, amongst a plethora of rich, hoity-toity ‘SC fans. Clearly they thought that they had paid for the right to enjoy the game from the comfort of their expensive seat. But if you’ve been to an ‘SC football game with Joe, you know he’s not going to lackadaisically cheer. He’s going to stand, and he’s going to stand pretty much the entire game. I remember people screaming and whining at him to sit down so they could see the game, and him turning around and saying, “No! You stand up! This is a football game!”
The hilarity ensued after the game as we left the Coliseum in victory, trouncing the Irish 44-13, and Joe laughed literally at every single person he saw with a Notre Dame shirt on, victory sign held high, singing the fight song. They didn’t think it was funny.
I know I’m not saying anything that everyone doesn’t already know, but Joe is everything you could want in a friend: loyal, compassionate, giving and completely non-judgmental.
An absolute specimen of a human being, Joe is the epitome of everything good that this country has to offer. I felt proud when I could share his story with others. I frequently tell people, “Joe is the type of person that you’re proud to know is defending our country. Smart, strong, ethical and voraciously intense.”
I didn’t know Joe as a soldier. But I can only imagine the ferocity with which he attacked any obstacle in his way.
I was interning in London during the bombings of 2005. Joe was one of the first people to email me and make sure I was OK. Here’s a bit of the email he sent:
“I just got back yesterday from five weeks in the field doing training, and ,I've been worried sick about you ever since I heard about the bombings, and attempted bombings, in London. I know you are alright, but man was I scared when I first found out. It underscores to me the importance of the fight against these butchers, to say the least. I don't take it kindly when my friends are in the crosshairs.”
I feel honored to be a friend of Joe’s. As I contemplate how to move forward, the thing I keep coming back to is using Joe as a model in my own life. Remember the intensity that he brought to each and every task needed to complete his goal. Remember how Joe made each and every one of his many friends feel loved. Remember how he would selflessly make sacrifices to spend time with loved ones.
It warms my heart to know that I am but one of hundreds of people whose lives have been enriched immensely by Joe.
I love you, buddy.
Seth
Joe was the first person I met when we came to USC as freshman in 1998. The things I remember of that day are fleeting flashes Joe-dom. His chlorinated, semi-translucent blond mop. The sound of the Allman Brothers pouring from his room in our suite at Flour Towers. Going to our first (lame) frat party on the row together. Laughing as a certain swimmer girl staggered into the suite with her orange underwear reading “flirt” across the front unknowingly on display.
I knew after that day we would long be friends.
One of my favorite memories of Joe was when we went to the USC vs. Notre Dame game together at the Coliseum in 2002, and we were lucky enough to get some really good seats outside the student section, amongst a plethora of rich, hoity-toity ‘SC fans. Clearly they thought that they had paid for the right to enjoy the game from the comfort of their expensive seat. But if you’ve been to an ‘SC football game with Joe, you know he’s not going to lackadaisically cheer. He’s going to stand, and he’s going to stand pretty much the entire game. I remember people screaming and whining at him to sit down so they could see the game, and him turning around and saying, “No! You stand up! This is a football game!”
The hilarity ensued after the game as we left the Coliseum in victory, trouncing the Irish 44-13, and Joe laughed literally at every single person he saw with a Notre Dame shirt on, victory sign held high, singing the fight song. They didn’t think it was funny.
I know I’m not saying anything that everyone doesn’t already know, but Joe is everything you could want in a friend: loyal, compassionate, giving and completely non-judgmental.
An absolute specimen of a human being, Joe is the epitome of everything good that this country has to offer. I felt proud when I could share his story with others. I frequently tell people, “Joe is the type of person that you’re proud to know is defending our country. Smart, strong, ethical and voraciously intense.”
I didn’t know Joe as a soldier. But I can only imagine the ferocity with which he attacked any obstacle in his way.
I was interning in London during the bombings of 2005. Joe was one of the first people to email me and make sure I was OK. Here’s a bit of the email he sent:
“I just got back yesterday from five weeks in the field doing training, and ,I've been worried sick about you ever since I heard about the bombings, and attempted bombings, in London. I know you are alright, but man was I scared when I first found out. It underscores to me the importance of the fight against these butchers, to say the least. I don't take it kindly when my friends are in the crosshairs.”
I feel honored to be a friend of Joe’s. As I contemplate how to move forward, the thing I keep coming back to is using Joe as a model in my own life. Remember the intensity that he brought to each and every task needed to complete his goal. Remember how Joe made each and every one of his many friends feel loved. Remember how he would selflessly make sacrifices to spend time with loved ones.
It warms my heart to know that I am but one of hundreds of people whose lives have been enriched immensely by Joe.
I love you, buddy.
Seth
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Letter from John Harper, a great friend of Joe's I've only heard about but never had the pleasure of meeting
To anyone who knew Joe,
For those that do not know my connection to Joe, we met almost three years ago to the week in Ft. Benning, GA at airborne school. Joe and I spent most of our free time and “work” time☺(if you consider freezing our butts off on our backs in 2 ft. of water in December doing hundreds of flutter kicks---work☺) with each other throughout our journey to become Green Berets. We were separated when he left to Ft. Lewis, and I returned to MD. We continued on our paths knowing that we would always see each other whenever we could. We were instant friends, and that friendship quickly turned into a life-long brotherhood.
For those of you that do not know the path of becoming a Special Forces Operator (and those of you that do will agree with me), lets just say we go through the Special Forces Q-course creating bonds that are unique and deeper than anyone can imagine. Before the army, I always thought I knew the reasons I wanted to become a Green Beret…to serve my country, lineage, to challenge myself, etc.; but now I understand more than ever that it was to meet men, like Joseph Curreri, that would be considered my brothers for eternity.
I have been doing a lot of soul searching and trying to recount the wonderful times/drives/discussions/memories that Joe and I shared. Here are some samples:
on politics (boy could he get intense); about Athena and Sarah--the loves of our lives; on what it will be like to finally get that ever elusive “Green Hat” ☺; grade school, high school, and college stories; sports---how I couldn’t stand USC football and how Joe would force me to listen to the USC fight song in MY OWN CAR on the late night drives from Ft. Bragg to MD and back--; how Dan, Biff, Joe and I crammed into my small car heading for DC and how he and Dan couldn’t stop discussing the future of the world and how we all hoped to make a difference; how he loved his family; our compassion and drive to achieve no matter what stood in our way; how I wished I could run/ruck/swim like he could; how he was so in touch with his faith and how I wished I could be as spiritual as he was; and soooo much more.
I remember the instant I met Joe standing in that dreaded airborne school formation; introducing myself and at that moment being instant friends. Then traveling up to Ft. Bragg to SOPC and throughout the Q-Course, where we were so excited when I finally got my car from home (until then we relied on Mickey Williams to drive us all over Ft. Bragg) so we could actually “leave” and make that 5+ hour drive to the rest stop off I-95 where he would meet his Dad. Then finding out we weren’t going to be in the same Phase II course, and seeing each other whenever we got the chance—working out together (meaning Joe out-running/push-upping me), long nights at Barnes and Noble, hanging out watching Lost in our rooms, and much more. Then the disappointment (at least for me), finding out that Joe would be going to 1st GRP and I would be going home to MD. Then how I asked him to be one of my best-men in my wedding, and how the army had him taking Chinese in Ft. Lewis. Joe was very disappointed that he and Athena could not make it. Then we both cursed the army for screwing up yet another opportunity for us to hang out; but in the back of our minds knowing that each of us had chosen that path, and we knew how important it was for the both of us to achieve our goals.
We never had to promise to keep in touch---we just did. And I remember the last moment I saw Joe---he came out to Baltimore to visit his Dad and family before he left for the Philippines, and he and I grabbed lunch and I took him over to my SF unit and introduced him to my SF experience. We wished each other luck and hugged goodbye (and everyone who knows Joe, knows that hug), and he said he would be contacting me as soon as he could from the Philippines---he did, and we exchanged a few emails and a phone conversation over the course of his deployment. I was very much looking forward to seeing him again this winter and continuing our friendship.
Joe was following the path that he so adamantly believed, and a path that most men do not even attempt to follow. Joe Curreri was no ordinary man…he was special in a way that only those who knew him, or knew of him, can comprehend.
I want everyone to know how incredibly he affected my life, as he had an affect on anyone that met him. And, like so many others, how I consider Joseph F. Curreri not just a friend but my life-long brother.
With sorrow in my heart and wonderful memories in my thoughts—Joe’s brother for life,
John
SGT John Harper
20th Special Forces Group (Airborne)
De Oppresso Liber
301-788-4096
Below are some quotes that I sent to Joe, and they help me remember how much I enjoyed our conversations.
War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things. The decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling which thinks that nothing is worth war is much worse. The person who has nothing for which he is willing to fight, nothing which is more important than his own personal safety, is a miserable creature and has no chance of being free unless made and kept so by the exertions of better men than himself.
John Stuart Mill (1806 –
The art of war is simple enough. Find out where your enemy is. Get at him as soon as you can. Strike him as hard as you can, and keep moving on.
Ulysses S. Grant (1822 – 1885
" We sleep safe in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would do us harm. "
" Pacifism is objectively pro-fascist. This is elementary common sense. If you hamper the war effort of one side, you automatically help out that of the other. Nor is there any real way of remaining outside such a war as the present one. In practice, 'he that is not with me is against me. "
We must remember that any oppression, any injustice, any hatred, is a wedge designed to attack our civilization.
Franklin D. Roosevelt
Justice consists not in being neutral between right and wrong, but in finding out the right and upholding it, wherever found, against the wrong.
Theodore Rooseve
Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.
Theodore Roosevelt
My comment in reaction to an article in the Baltimore Sun Wed. Oct.31st:
Even though Joe and I met just 3 short years ago following our dreams to become fabled Green Berets, he became a friend for life. Our ties to Maryland, views on life and love, and shared interests made us instant brothers forever. I am so deeply affected by this loss that I cannot even begin to put into words how much he meant to me and everyone that came across his path. Joe was an unmatched physical specimen, a profound thinker/philosopher, and truly “impressive”. A day won't go by that I will not think of our life-long brotherhood. Rest in peace, brother. De Oppresso Liber!
Roget's New Millennium™ Thesaurus - Cite This Source - Share This
Main Entry: impressive
Part of Speech: adjective
Definition: influential
Synonyms: absorbing, affecting, arresting, august, awe-inspiring, consequential, cool*, deep*, dramatic, effective, eloquent, excited, exciting, extraordinary, fab, far out, forcible, grand, impassioned, important, imposing, inspiring, intense, lavish, luxurious, majestic, massive, momentous, monumental, moving, noble, notable, penetrating, profound, real cool, remarkable, rousing, splendid, stately, stirring, striking, sumptuous, superb, thrilling, touching, towering, vital, well-done
Joseph Curreri you are my brother for life. I love you. Rest in Peace.
For those that do not know my connection to Joe, we met almost three years ago to the week in Ft. Benning, GA at airborne school. Joe and I spent most of our free time and “work” time☺(if you consider freezing our butts off on our backs in 2 ft. of water in December doing hundreds of flutter kicks---work☺) with each other throughout our journey to become Green Berets. We were separated when he left to Ft. Lewis, and I returned to MD. We continued on our paths knowing that we would always see each other whenever we could. We were instant friends, and that friendship quickly turned into a life-long brotherhood.
For those of you that do not know the path of becoming a Special Forces Operator (and those of you that do will agree with me), lets just say we go through the Special Forces Q-course creating bonds that are unique and deeper than anyone can imagine. Before the army, I always thought I knew the reasons I wanted to become a Green Beret…to serve my country, lineage, to challenge myself, etc.; but now I understand more than ever that it was to meet men, like Joseph Curreri, that would be considered my brothers for eternity.
I have been doing a lot of soul searching and trying to recount the wonderful times/drives/discussions/memories that Joe and I shared. Here are some samples:
on politics (boy could he get intense); about Athena and Sarah--the loves of our lives; on what it will be like to finally get that ever elusive “Green Hat” ☺; grade school, high school, and college stories; sports---how I couldn’t stand USC football and how Joe would force me to listen to the USC fight song in MY OWN CAR on the late night drives from Ft. Bragg to MD and back--; how Dan, Biff, Joe and I crammed into my small car heading for DC and how he and Dan couldn’t stop discussing the future of the world and how we all hoped to make a difference; how he loved his family; our compassion and drive to achieve no matter what stood in our way; how I wished I could run/ruck/swim like he could; how he was so in touch with his faith and how I wished I could be as spiritual as he was; and soooo much more.
I remember the instant I met Joe standing in that dreaded airborne school formation; introducing myself and at that moment being instant friends. Then traveling up to Ft. Bragg to SOPC and throughout the Q-Course, where we were so excited when I finally got my car from home (until then we relied on Mickey Williams to drive us all over Ft. Bragg) so we could actually “leave” and make that 5+ hour drive to the rest stop off I-95 where he would meet his Dad. Then finding out we weren’t going to be in the same Phase II course, and seeing each other whenever we got the chance—working out together (meaning Joe out-running/push-upping me), long nights at Barnes and Noble, hanging out watching Lost in our rooms, and much more. Then the disappointment (at least for me), finding out that Joe would be going to 1st GRP and I would be going home to MD. Then how I asked him to be one of my best-men in my wedding, and how the army had him taking Chinese in Ft. Lewis. Joe was very disappointed that he and Athena could not make it. Then we both cursed the army for screwing up yet another opportunity for us to hang out; but in the back of our minds knowing that each of us had chosen that path, and we knew how important it was for the both of us to achieve our goals.
We never had to promise to keep in touch---we just did. And I remember the last moment I saw Joe---he came out to Baltimore to visit his Dad and family before he left for the Philippines, and he and I grabbed lunch and I took him over to my SF unit and introduced him to my SF experience. We wished each other luck and hugged goodbye (and everyone who knows Joe, knows that hug), and he said he would be contacting me as soon as he could from the Philippines---he did, and we exchanged a few emails and a phone conversation over the course of his deployment. I was very much looking forward to seeing him again this winter and continuing our friendship.
Joe was following the path that he so adamantly believed, and a path that most men do not even attempt to follow. Joe Curreri was no ordinary man…he was special in a way that only those who knew him, or knew of him, can comprehend.
I want everyone to know how incredibly he affected my life, as he had an affect on anyone that met him. And, like so many others, how I consider Joseph F. Curreri not just a friend but my life-long brother.
With sorrow in my heart and wonderful memories in my thoughts—Joe’s brother for life,
John
SGT John Harper
20th Special Forces Group (Airborne)
De Oppresso Liber
301-788-4096
Below are some quotes that I sent to Joe, and they help me remember how much I enjoyed our conversations.
War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things. The decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling which thinks that nothing is worth war is much worse. The person who has nothing for which he is willing to fight, nothing which is more important than his own personal safety, is a miserable creature and has no chance of being free unless made and kept so by the exertions of better men than himself.
John Stuart Mill (1806 –
The art of war is simple enough. Find out where your enemy is. Get at him as soon as you can. Strike him as hard as you can, and keep moving on.
Ulysses S. Grant (1822 – 1885
" We sleep safe in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would do us harm. "
" Pacifism is objectively pro-fascist. This is elementary common sense. If you hamper the war effort of one side, you automatically help out that of the other. Nor is there any real way of remaining outside such a war as the present one. In practice, 'he that is not with me is against me. "
We must remember that any oppression, any injustice, any hatred, is a wedge designed to attack our civilization.
Franklin D. Roosevelt
Justice consists not in being neutral between right and wrong, but in finding out the right and upholding it, wherever found, against the wrong.
Theodore Rooseve
Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.
Theodore Roosevelt
My comment in reaction to an article in the Baltimore Sun Wed. Oct.31st:
Even though Joe and I met just 3 short years ago following our dreams to become fabled Green Berets, he became a friend for life. Our ties to Maryland, views on life and love, and shared interests made us instant brothers forever. I am so deeply affected by this loss that I cannot even begin to put into words how much he meant to me and everyone that came across his path. Joe was an unmatched physical specimen, a profound thinker/philosopher, and truly “impressive”. A day won't go by that I will not think of our life-long brotherhood. Rest in peace, brother. De Oppresso Liber!
Roget's New Millennium™ Thesaurus - Cite This Source - Share This
Main Entry: impressive
Part of Speech: adjective
Definition: influential
Synonyms: absorbing, affecting, arresting, august, awe-inspiring, consequential, cool*, deep*, dramatic, effective, eloquent, excited, exciting, extraordinary, fab, far out, forcible, grand, impassioned, important, imposing, inspiring, intense, lavish, luxurious, majestic, massive, momentous, monumental, moving, noble, notable, penetrating, profound, real cool, remarkable, rousing, splendid, stately, stirring, striking, sumptuous, superb, thrilling, touching, towering, vital, well-done
Joseph Curreri you are my brother for life. I love you. Rest in Peace.
email from Erik
Over the past few days many of us have been trying to come to terms with the loss of our great friend, Joseph Curreri. He was the most loyal, passionate, intelligent, meticulous and driven friend I've ever had. And though the list of honorary adjectives are never-ending and can go on and on in his case, I think the best way to describe him is through his love: his love of his wife, his family, his country and his friends. Anyone who was close to Joe knew he would jump through hoops and go over any obstacle just to see his friends, whether it be for a quick hello or for a couple hours.
I'm reminded of two specific times that Joe did this for me. The first was when he had just finished a segment of his Army education and he was back in LA visiting Athena for a small period of time before having to complete the rest of his training. I got a call from him, saying he
was in LA. Needless to say I was super excited I was gonna be able to
see him...He told me,"I'll be there in an hour dude." To which I replied, "What the hell are you walking from Athena's??" "No", he said, "I'm running...with a 50 lbs bag." hahah, keep in mind Athena lived in West Hollywood and I was at the USC campus, I couldn't believe it. Sure enough, less than an hour later I'm on Ellendale, my phone rings, it's Joe, he tells me he's on Ellendale too. I look down the street and there's Joe...backpack and all running up towards me. He give's me (and everyone who's been lucky enough to have been truly hugged by Joe know's what I'm talking about) his typical big old bear hug. though this one was especially big because he had put on about 20 lbs of muscle since joining the army!
The second time, I was in Victoria, BC at a swim meet over the summer of 2006. He was stationed at Fort Lewis down in Seattle at the time. He rearranged his schedule to come up and see me and Ilika. Again, Seattle to Victoria (like West Hollywood to 'SC with no car) is not very easy to get to. But Joe found a way. It was like planes, trains and automobiles for him to get there (plus a ferry because Victoria was an Island) but he found a way, just like he always did. And though our time together was short in Victoria it was well worth it. It was the second to last time I saw Joe and those memories will always be fresh in my mind; Me and Joe, grabbing lunch right on the harbor in British Columbia. It's something I'll never forget.
Ilika and I have been trying to figure out ways to honor the guy that we called a brother. Ilika, though his web savvy, has set up a web
site:
http://Joeycurreri.blogspot.com/
where everyone can post a story like the two that I've shared with you; it can be funny, sappy, heartfelt..it really doesn't matter! It doesn't even have to be a story, it can be your thoughts, your feelings, etc.
It's just a great way for us to remember Joe for the GREAT man he was.
Also, on this web site we've set up an event list for all that can make
it: On Saturday, November 17th, we're having a celebration of Joe's life. The festivities kick off at 11 am at the Pantry, where each table will be getting a chili cheese omelette (Joe's favorite)..though I'll be getting one for myself. From there we're gonna head to Beach's on Manhattan Pier, where we have the second floor rented out from 2-5.
I want to encourage everyone to bring emails, letters, photo's..anything really, that Joe had sent you or given you that you think is important. We'll have a table centered where all pics of the good times that Joe had will be on display. At some point during Beach's we'd like to have 'sit down,' so to speak where those that want to get up and talk about Joe can. It'll be a great place for his family and friends to remember Joe..again this is a celebration.
Nothing would make Joe happier than seeing all the closest people in his life coming together with smiles on their faces. For those of you that are out of town and won't be able to make it but still want some of his emails read, or some of his pics shown, please email me and I'll be sure to do that for you.
It's important to know this celebration is not to take the place of the memorial services, which date and time is still pending. But to add to it; Joe was full of life and deserved 20 of these. I hope this email finds all of you well, and I look forward to seeing all those that can make it to this.
Your Friend,
Erik Vendt
I'm reminded of two specific times that Joe did this for me. The first was when he had just finished a segment of his Army education and he was back in LA visiting Athena for a small period of time before having to complete the rest of his training. I got a call from him, saying he
was in LA. Needless to say I was super excited I was gonna be able to
see him...He told me,"I'll be there in an hour dude." To which I replied, "What the hell are you walking from Athena's??" "No", he said, "I'm running...with a 50 lbs bag." hahah, keep in mind Athena lived in West Hollywood and I was at the USC campus, I couldn't believe it. Sure enough, less than an hour later I'm on Ellendale, my phone rings, it's Joe, he tells me he's on Ellendale too. I look down the street and there's Joe...backpack and all running up towards me. He give's me (and everyone who's been lucky enough to have been truly hugged by Joe know's what I'm talking about) his typical big old bear hug. though this one was especially big because he had put on about 20 lbs of muscle since joining the army!
The second time, I was in Victoria, BC at a swim meet over the summer of 2006. He was stationed at Fort Lewis down in Seattle at the time. He rearranged his schedule to come up and see me and Ilika. Again, Seattle to Victoria (like West Hollywood to 'SC with no car) is not very easy to get to. But Joe found a way. It was like planes, trains and automobiles for him to get there (plus a ferry because Victoria was an Island) but he found a way, just like he always did. And though our time together was short in Victoria it was well worth it. It was the second to last time I saw Joe and those memories will always be fresh in my mind; Me and Joe, grabbing lunch right on the harbor in British Columbia. It's something I'll never forget.
Ilika and I have been trying to figure out ways to honor the guy that we called a brother. Ilika, though his web savvy, has set up a web
site:
http://Joeycurreri.blogspot.com/
where everyone can post a story like the two that I've shared with you; it can be funny, sappy, heartfelt..it really doesn't matter! It doesn't even have to be a story, it can be your thoughts, your feelings, etc.
It's just a great way for us to remember Joe for the GREAT man he was.
Also, on this web site we've set up an event list for all that can make
it: On Saturday, November 17th, we're having a celebration of Joe's life. The festivities kick off at 11 am at the Pantry, where each table will be getting a chili cheese omelette (Joe's favorite)..though I'll be getting one for myself. From there we're gonna head to Beach's on Manhattan Pier, where we have the second floor rented out from 2-5.
I want to encourage everyone to bring emails, letters, photo's..anything really, that Joe had sent you or given you that you think is important. We'll have a table centered where all pics of the good times that Joe had will be on display. At some point during Beach's we'd like to have 'sit down,' so to speak where those that want to get up and talk about Joe can. It'll be a great place for his family and friends to remember Joe..again this is a celebration.
Nothing would make Joe happier than seeing all the closest people in his life coming together with smiles on their faces. For those of you that are out of town and won't be able to make it but still want some of his emails read, or some of his pics shown, please email me and I'll be sure to do that for you.
It's important to know this celebration is not to take the place of the memorial services, which date and time is still pending. But to add to it; Joe was full of life and deserved 20 of these. I hope this email finds all of you well, and I look forward to seeing all those that can make it to this.
Your Friend,
Erik Vendt
Message from Athena
guys, this is the auto-reply message from Athena's email-
Dear friends,
I would like to thank you all for your love and support over these past few days. I don't know where I would be right now if I didn't have so many lovely and kind voicemails and beautiful emails to comfort me.
I know that several of you have started to send the most amazing food and flowers and, for this, I (and Joe's family) could never begin to thank you enough.
As my head becomes clearer, I am reminded of a charity that was very dear to Joe - The Special Operations Warrior Foundation. (a description is below.)
The Special Operations Warrior Foundation (SOWF) provides free college scholarship grants, along with financial aid and educational counseling, to the children of Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps Special Operations personnel who were killed in an operational mission or training accident.
http://www.specialops.org/
From this point forward, in lieu of flowers and food, I ask that you please consider making a donation to this Foundation. I know that this was important to Joe and he would have appreciated it. Hopefully by the end of the day there will be a special group designated to Joseph Curreri on the website.
I should have more information regarding the funeral and memorial in a couple of days.
Thank you, Athena
Dear friends,
I would like to thank you all for your love and support over these past few days. I don't know where I would be right now if I didn't have so many lovely and kind voicemails and beautiful emails to comfort me.
I know that several of you have started to send the most amazing food and flowers and, for this, I (and Joe's family) could never begin to thank you enough.
As my head becomes clearer, I am reminded of a charity that was very dear to Joe - The Special Operations Warrior Foundation. (a description is below.)
The Special Operations Warrior Foundation (SOWF) provides free college scholarship grants, along with financial aid and educational counseling, to the children of Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps Special Operations personnel who were killed in an operational mission or training accident.
http://www.specialops.org/
From this point forward, in lieu of flowers and food, I ask that you please consider making a donation to this Foundation. I know that this was important to Joe and he would have appreciated it. Hopefully by the end of the day there will be a special group designated to Joseph Curreri on the website.
I should have more information regarding the funeral and memorial in a couple of days.
Thank you, Athena
This site is for Joey
Eric and I have been looking for a way to get everyone together. We're working on a website, but in the meantime this will help everyone communicate. As soon as we know when the services will take place, we'll send the information to everyone.
We've lost a dear friend. An exceptional human being. A man who appreciated everything in life; his family, his friends and his country. There is so much more to say about Joe Curreri. I hadn't seen him in a little over a year, and I miss him so much.
Post whatever you want here. You can tell a funny story, just post a picture or talk about how you feel.
Loveya Joe.
Your friend,
Josh Ilika
We've lost a dear friend. An exceptional human being. A man who appreciated everything in life; his family, his friends and his country. There is so much more to say about Joe Curreri. I hadn't seen him in a little over a year, and I miss him so much.
Post whatever you want here. You can tell a funny story, just post a picture or talk about how you feel.
Loveya Joe.
Your friend,
Josh Ilika
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