MSG Robert Spatzier, United States Army, Ret.

Robert Spatzier was born January 13, 1942 in New York, New York and passed away on March 16, 2012 in Copperas Cove, Texas at the age of 70.

Robert proudly served his country in the United States Army for over 26 years and retired at the rank of Master Sergeant.

His numerous military decorations and awards include the Army Commendation Medal and four awards of the Good Conduct Medal.

Robert married Maria Regina Bernardelli on March 20, 1976 in Soave, Italy. To this union was born one son, who lives in Italy with his wife Eleanor.

Funeral Services were held on March 22 at the Sheppard Funeral Home in Copperas Cove, Texas, with Father Reese Hutcheson officiating. In attendance were the Patriot Guard Riders who formed a line of American flags at the entrance to welcome the arriving family and friends.

After the service, the Riders led the procession to the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, at Killeen, Texas. There, the Riders formed a line of flags around the committal shelter as final prayers were said by an United States Army Chaplain.

The Army Honor Guard rendered full military honors. The Army detail of five rifles fired three volleys of fire, representing Duty, Honor and Country. The Army bugler, standing in the shade two live oak trees, played taps. A song bird performed his happy melody in the tree above.

The Honor Guard carefully unfolded the American flag that rested next to the cremains, and carefully refolded it into a tight triangle and ceremoniously passed it to an Army Staff Sergeant, who presented the flag to Robert's dear wife on behalf of a grateful nation and the United States Army, as a token of appreciation for Robert's honorable and faithful service.

The cremains of Master Sergeant Robert Galiana were buried on the shoulder of the cemetery hill, as the American flag flew at half-staff, in his honor, at the top of the hill.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, his son and his wife and numerous other dear family and friends.

With thanks to Sheppard Funeral Home for biographical information.