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West graduate dies in Afghanistan
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By MARK HAYWARD
New Hampshire Union Leader
Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2007
A Manchester West High School graduate who rescued two fellow soldiers from a burning vehicle six months ago died from wounds received while on ground patrol in Afghanistan, military officials at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, said yesterday.
Zachary D. Tellier, a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne, listed his official address as Charlotte but considered himself a Manchester, N.H., resident, said his mother, Pamela Morse, of Falmouth, Mass. Tellier, who was 31, died Saturday, and Morse said she learned of his death Sunday afternoon.
Tellier died from gunshot wounds received during a prolonged firefight with the Taliban, said his wife, Sara Tellier.
Tellier (pronounced te-LEAR) attended grade school and middle school in Bedford and graduated from West High School in 1994, Morse said. He graduated from American University, returned to Manchester and moved to Charlotte in 2004. He was working as a carpenter when he enlisted two years ago, his mother said.
"He wanted to feel successful at a job. He wasn't feeling like he was in control of his own success in any job he had," Morse said.
He married his wife, a former Nashua resident, in June 2006.
In August, Tellier started a blog. Entries include:
The Afghan mountains: "something out of Lord of the Rings."
His frustration with Afghan people: "Their (Afghan National Army) platoon sergeant already threatened to kill me."
His love of non-alcoholic beer: "Is it possible, but I think I'm a non-alcoholic."
Changes in himself: "As I was stripping my funky clothes off yesterday before my shower, I realized I've never felt more alive, more satisfied with what I'm doing."
Tellier pulled two comrades from a burning vehicle in April. At the time, his unit was conducting a mounted patrol when one of its vehicles drove over and detonated a bomb, which set the vehicle on fire, according to a statement from the 82nd Airborne.
He suffered severe burns to his hands and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with valor and the Purple Heart.
Spc. Larry Spray, who was one of the two paratroopers Tellier rescued, called Tellier "a good friend and a buddy."
After he was burned, Tellier jumped up in the turret to return fire, said Sgt. Michael Layton, a member of Tellier's unit. A lieutenant made Tellier get out of the vehicle because of his injuries, Layton said.
"Zachary Tellier has to be the biggest hero I've ever known or heard of, not just because of what he did, but because of his personality," Layton said. "He came in the Army because he wanted to be around soldiers and serve his country, and he paid the ultimate sacrifice."
Morse said her son detested his hospital stay while recovering from his burns. "He loved his guys (in his unit). He talked about them all the time," she said.
He was due to return to the United States two weeks on leave. He had planned to spend a week on a desert island with his wife and a week in New England with his friends and family, Morse said.
Tellier is survived by his wife; his father, David W. Tellier of Groton, Mass.; and two brothers: James Tellier of Seattle and Daniel Tellier of Groton, Mass.
Morse said arrangements are incomplete, but a military service is expected to be held on Otis Air Force Base.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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YOUR COMMENTS
there arent any adjectives i could think of when describing tellier....except beautiful. though he would laugh if i ever called him that. sometimes i wish i hadnt waken him up that morning of september 29...sometimes i wish i was on that same hill so i could take his bullet...sometimes i think of him when im walking around and have to stop. im sorry sara that this happened
- Jules Tindungan, Vancouver, BC
My heart goes out to you and your family. May your memories bring you comfort. Thank you Zack! We will always remember you...
I’m proud to be Zack’s friend!
- Emerson Portes, Nashua
Zach...you are truly a hero and we thank you for your unselfish heart in fighting for our freedom. Sara and family our prayers are with you
- The Moorehead Family, Snellville, GA
Zach was a good buddy of mine from American. His humor, kind spirit and generosity left lasting impressions on anyone fortunate enough to meet him. My thoughts and prayers are with Sara and the entire Tellier family.
- Teddy Novin, Newtown, CT
Zach, I've always found you to be a such a great person. You gave me the opportunity to play drums on my first ever gig! The backpacking trip we did with Jim in the White Mountains was such a great time! I am honored to be your friend. You will be missed!
- Michael Walsh, Dover, NH
Zach will live in my memory as an outstanding individual that I am glad to have been able to know from American. He was always able to make me laugh in any circumstance and I cherish those memories. I'm so proud of the way he served this country and my heart goes out to his family.
- Brian Tinger, Somerville, MA
Sara- I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family have been in my prayers and thoughts. I requested that the school where I teach to do a moment of silence tomorrow in honor of your husband. My heart goes out to you. Love, Meilssa
- Melissa Davis (Torigian), Boston, MA
As neighbors of the Telliers in Groton, Zach was already an adult when we all moved in 10 years ago. I remember seeing him playing with Sam and Hannah, his young halfsiblings and my kids on their front lawn. He was a wonderful young man who will be missed. Our sympathies to Sara who he loved so dearly, his mother Pam, his father and stepmother Dave and Lauren and all of his siblings.
- Dorothy Christiansen, Groton, MA
Zach, thanks for being such a great friend to my brother, Eric. I'll never forget how you'd come over and "jam" with him in our basement. It was so loud! I didn't mind when when you played, though, because the drums were (and still are) my favorite. You and your family are in my thoughts.
- Katrina (Pellerin) Schilling, Nashua, NH
Zach,
You were one of my closest friends in middle and high school. You had a great sense of humor, we used to laugh so much when we watched silly movies. You were a great drummer, and I still have the tape you made of our band. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
- Eric Pellerin, Brooklyn, NY
My sympathy to Sara and the entire Tellier family in this loss. Zack was an amazing person and he will always be remembered with love. I am so sorry. Love, Natalia.
- Natalia Maldonado, Madrid, Spain
We will never understand what God's intentions are. Any of us that had the chance to know Zach know how blessed we are. There is a true angle watching over us now. So sorry Sara and family. Love, Erica
- Erice Dionne, Goffstown, NH
Zach was my roommate back at American University. There was never a time he couldn't make me laugh, one of the most generous people I've ever met. I'll miss you good buddy
- Taresh, Meriden, CT
Peace out, bro...Cheers...
- KLord & Shawn, Manchester, NH
Though I haven't seen Zach for many years, I'll always remember the way he helped his younger cousin through some homesickness. My thoughts are with my family at this time of great sadness.
cousin Maggi
- Maggi Prong, Knoxville,TN
Hey Bro, I know this is what you really wanted to do. Thank you for being there for me, thanks for beieng there for our country, we will miss you! Love you! I never said this to you, but you are the best freind a guy could have. THANK YOU!!!! Steve.
- Steve Black, londonderry NH
I have also known Zach since grade school. I didn't realize he was in the military. He was always someone with very strong values, and stood up for what he believed in, even if it wasn't what everyone else was doing. He has touched so many peoples lives. God Bless, you Zach. And my prayers go out your wife and family.
- Margaret Goodrich, minnie, Goffstown, nh
My brother, who served with Zach as a part of the same unit, states Zach was a great friend and serviceman. I am sorry for your loss and will never forget the sacrifice made for our country.
- Jennifer Beights, Dallas, TX
Zack was my cousin, but he was also my big brother. Zack and his brothers, Jamie and Danny, are the men in my life. I am so proud of Zack ... and it brings a smile to my face to read how proud everyone is of him. Zack would hate to be called a hero - but that's exactly what he is. Our hero. Sara, you are amazing. You are forever family. As Zack did, I love you with all my heart.
- Julia Morse, Chicago, Illinois
Zach, thank you for being a hero and a great friend. We will always remember your sense of humor, and we will always be proud to have known you. Sara, our thoughts are with you. Love, Pat & Marisa
- Patrick Esposito and Marisa Ciuffetti, Manchester
My thoughts and prayers are with Zach and his family. He was one of the most honest, genuine, passionate and caring person that I have had the privilege of befriending. Zach, you will be missed.
- Scott Therrien, Chestnut Hill, Mass.
Our condolences to Zach's family. Zach is a true hero and will be missed greatly. Thank you for your service to this country and for many fond memories.
- Rob and Maria Zannerini, Tewksbury, MA
I wanted to thank everyone for their incredibly kind words.
- Sara Tellier, Charlotte, NC
Zach, you were one of my closest friends throughout my life. I still remember the first time meeting you at McKelvie Middle school in 8th grade. I'll always remember your constant smile and laugh, your amazing drumming skills, and your willingness to help anyone in a time of need.
My family's prayers go out to you and your loved ones.
- Derrick Belanger and Abigail Gosselin, Broomfield, Colorado
Zach is heroes like you that make the USA the greatest country the world has ever known
- eddie, miami fla
Zach, You are a true hero who will be missed. We will miss that wonderful personality and smile. My Prayers go out to you and your family.
- Scott Houle, Manchester
Pam, David, Sara and Morse and Tellier families and friends, I am so sorry to hear the sad news about Zach. The last time I saw him he was probably 12 or 13 years old. He was a good kid, and a brave man to serve our country. G-d bless him and your families.
- Steve Sender & family, Cleveland, Ohio
To all of the readers who have left beautiful comments about Zack and Sara, I thank you so much. As Zack's mom, I can tell you he would rather be remembered as a man with many dear friends like you than as an American hero.
- Pamela Morse, Falmouth, MA
Zach you are truly an amazing person. Thank You for all ultimate sacrifice. Take comfort in knowing he is still watching over all of of us. Sarah you are in our thoughts and prayers.
- Meaghan & Ben Campbell, Old Orchard Beach, ME
God must have been looking for a hero to bring home....he certainly picked the best. Zach, you will be missed more than you know. You have left such an impression in the lives of so many people and you will never be forgotten. Thank you for your loyal service to our country. Your mission is complete. My condolences to Sarah and the entire family. Love, Sunshine
- Sunshine Drouin, Goffstown NH
Zach you are a great friend and always gave every one a chance You served us as a hero would. My blessings with you Sara and your family.
- Christopher isabelle, nashua nh
I am so proud to have known you and so sad that you are gone. I can not thank you enough for standing up for America and fighting for your country, friends, family. You are simply an amazing individual. To Sara: I am so sorry for your loss, our prayers are with you. To Zach, I will miss your infectious smile :) Please continue to smile over us from above.
- Jenny & Blake Bless, Goffstown
My Best friend of 19 years is gone. Sad as I am, I will always cherish the times we had. Zack, I will miss you greatly. Thank you so much for teaching me to hold my head up high and always have you heart in the right place. Sara, we love you and were are always here for you. Love Gregg & Rebecca
- Gregg & Rebecca Pothier, Woburn, MA
An american soldier who is coming home a hero. Thank you Zach. We love you.
- Shawn Drouin & Karen Lord, Manchester NH
Sara, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My heart reaches out to you during this difficult time. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. I am requesting that my school where I teach do a moment of silence in honor of your husband. Love, Melissa
- Melissa Torigian (Davis), Boston, MA
I'll never forget your good natured way. Sara you are in my heart.
- Shawn Kelly, Manchester
I am a fellow gradute from Manchester West as well, My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. Bless you. You are a true hero.
- Jo, Manchester
Our nephew. We are unbelievably sad.
Thank all of you for your kind comments about our Zachary.
- Debby and Rob Morse, San Rafael, CA
Zach, your service to our country is greatly appreciated. You made the ultimate sacrifice and will not be forgotten. Captain Chris Dodd, USAF (West - Class of '93)
- Chris Dodd, Houston, TX
Zach,
You are a true hero my man.
Zach and I were in the same grade together and shard alot of classes as well. I heard this morning what happened from another one of my friends back home. It is a tragic and horrible thing to happen to such a great person.
my thoughts are with you and your family
- Jamison LaGuardia, Miami Beach, Florida
You are one of the nicest people we have ever known. A stand up guy who had an infectious smile, laugh and personality. You're love for life was amazing! You will never be forgotten. Peace and love to your family.
- Shannon & James Aiken, Manchester, NH
Zach was a tender and kind friend that would do anything for anyone. He will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to you Sara. Love Natalie
- Natalie Paris, New Smyrna Beach, Fl
Our sincere sympathy to Sara and all
of the Tellier family in this loss. We are
grateful to Zachary and many others
like him for fighting for our freedom.
You are all in our thoughts and
prayers today.
- Les & Maureen Chisholm, Wilmington, Mass.
Zack has been a very dear friend of mine since we were both 15 years old in high school. We were roommates after college and have remained good friends since then. He is one of the sweetest people I have ever known in my life. I have so many fond memories of Zack. My heart mourns this terrible loss and I will deeply miss his friendship. My love to his family and dear wife Sara.
- Jen Drociak, Manchester NH
To Zach's family,
I am so sorry for your loss, may you find some comfort in knowing that Zach died doing what he loved. Sarah I am so so sorry! Jim
- Jim Malley, Goffstown, NH
Zach, you will be missed. You will always will be a hero to us. Sara, we are so sorry. Sara, you and and Zach are in our thoughts, our hearts, and our prayers.
- Steve and Nicole Black, Manchester
Read the article! Sorry for your loss.
Thank you Zach for my life and my freedom. I will not forget you or all of our servicemen.
- Paula Green, Hampstead, NH
Zach was one of a kind. Always giving. My prayers go out to you Sara and his family.
- Chris McAloon, Holly Springs, NC
Sarah, I only met him once back when you kids were in college, and even back then he was soo good looking, smart and funny. Your were so in love with eachother. Words can not express what you are going thru. I know that Zach is proud of you and he loves you very much.
- Larissa and Christian Troy, East Hampton New York
His laughther is what I remember most- I can still hear it. The happiest I saw Zach was the moment he kissed Sara on thier wedding day. I'll never forget that. We'll get through this together and always remember Zach for the gentle, loving, and strong man that he was. Love, Noelle
- Noelle Franey, East Hampton, NY
Zach, we too will remember your gentle manner, your kind eyes, and love for all things natural in this world. It is with honor and love that we will not forget our times spent together, and your service to our Country. Our hearts go out to you, Sara, and your entire family.
- Tanya and Lance Flagg, Manchester, NH
To Zach's Friends and Family,
We're so sorry for your incredible loss. We fondly remember many wonderful summers with Zach on the Cape.
- The Kain Kids, New York and DC
These are the types of heroes that make my life, what I do day in and day out, seem to inconsequential. Thank you for doing what you do, soldiers. I'm a grown man, but I look up to you.
- Sam, Hooksett, NH
So many memories that I'll hold in my heart. All those jam sessions at your house, hiking in the Whites, hanging out with friends... you as our best man...
Zach, we'll miss you, my friend. Sara, though we have not met, I wish you peace. If you ever need anything, you have a family in NH to give it to you.
Amanda Dahl
- Amanda Dahl, Manchester, NH
Sara, I'm so sorry for your loss. It will be a loss felt by so many. He was a hero's hero. God Bless you!
- John J, Manchester
Zach: I'll always recall your beaming smile, calm demeanor, and casual sense of humor. It is no wonder how easily you could put a person at ease!
We miss you greatly.
- Denise Hendershot, Manchester, NH
I remember your voice, your calming presence, your love for Sara and your beautiful wedding day. I mourn for you, all the family and our country for this incredible loss. Love, Diane
- Diane Franey, East Hampton, NY
I can't belive that long-haired little kid I met when we were 14 is gone. Sara, my prayers are with you. We'll all miss him terribly.
- GypZ, Bedford, NH
My sympathy goes out to this young mans family.He is a true hero.Doing what he beleived in for all of us.GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY and comfort them at this time of loss.
- KAREN SHUTT, MANCHESTER
To New Hampshires best,we are thankful and proud to have Zachary and thousands of other troops defending our freedom. Our whole country mourns Zachary as his family, THANK YOU again Zachary and God Bless America!
- Marc Larochelle, Manchester
Zach...You are a great friend. And we'll miss you more than you'll ever know...I'm so sorry Sara, Love Clint
- Clint Forest, Manchester
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