Purcell Marian to name field after Maj. Guy 'Bear' Barattieri, a 1988 grad killed in Iraq
Purcell Marian High School announced the naming of Guy "Bear" Barattieri Field at Staubach Stadium on Monday afternoon.
Major Barattieri, a 1988 Purcell Marian graduate, helped lead the Cavaliers to an undefeated season and a state championship in 1986. He was killed while serving in Iraq in 2006 at age 36.
"The tribute reflects Guy Barattieri's profound impact and unwavering dedication throughout his extraordinary military career and beyond," Purcell Marian Principal Andy Farfsing said in a statement. "The decision to name the field after Guy reflects our deep appreciation for his services and sacrifice. It is a fitting honor for a man who embodied the principles and values that Purcell Marian strives to instill in our students."
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Barattieri graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1992. He served on active duty and became a Green Beret in 1997. Three years later, he transferred his commission to the National Guard and joined the Seattle Police Department.
In 2002, Barattieri's guard unit was deployed to Kuwait and Iraq. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Combat Infantryman's Badge for his combat achievements. In 2004, Barattieri became a contractor providing private security for organizations in Iraq. He died on Oct. 4, 2006, after suffering wounds when his convoy hit a roadside bomb in Baghdad.
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He is survived by his wife, Laurel, daughters, Rees and Odessa, mother, Pat, his father, Guy, a 1960 Purcell graduate., and his sisters, Purcell Marian graduates, Gina, Rebecca and Nicole.
Guy "Bear" Barattieri Field will be home to Purcell Marian Cavalier football, cheerleading, softball and boys and girls soccer. The stadium will be dedicated on Friday, Aug. 18, when Purcell Marian football hosts Deer Park.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Purcell Marian announces naming of Guy 'Bear' Barattieri Field
