Decorated Fort Bragg Soldier Dies in Pakistan

Fayetteville, N.C. — A Fort Bragg officer and North Carolina native died Monday in Pakistan following a battle.

Maj. Larry J. Bauguess Jr., 36, of Moravian Falls, died in Teri Mengel, Pakistan, of wounds sustained from enemy small-arms fire, Department of Defense officials announced.

He was the operations officer of the 4th Brigade Combat Team’s Special Troops Battalion in the 82nd Airborne Division.

Bauguess graduated from Appalachian State University in 1993 and received his commission in July 1993, DOD officials said. He was a recipient of the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart, among other awards.

Bauguess is survived by his wife, Wesley, and two daughters, Ryann and Ellie; and his parents, Larry and Martha Bauguess.

“Larry’s untimely death has left a void in our family that will never be filled, nor should we expect it to be,” Wesley Bauquess said in a statement Tuesday evening. “We are left with many joyous and happy memories, and we are left with a lot of sadness of unfulfilled dreams. “

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Larry was one of the best ROTC trainers that I had at App. He was a top-notch guy with a great sense of humor. His wife, Wesley was top cadet in my ROTC class. I am deeply saddened for her loss and their daughters who will now grow up without him.

Brandon Keith

appgrad95
May 16, 2007 11:34 a.m.

Larry is also survived by his sister, Laura, who lives in Raleigh.

lglduck
May 16, 2007 11:19 a.m.

I grew up with Larry, played ball with him for years, and was a friend of his in school and even graduated with him from WCSHS in 1989. He had a fabulous curve ball that hardly any of us could hit as kids! He was a joker in school and always had a smile on his face. The last time I saw him was graduation night 18 years ago, but it is nice to hear how he served our country during that time. My thoughts and prayers go out to his parents in Wilkes, his wife/children, and all of his platoon.

Greg Miller

theegman
May 16, 2007 11:09 a.m.

So sorry for your family's loss - we also honor you and your family today. My family is so appreciative of the sacrifices made by our military and their families. God bless you and all the other military famiies out there.

PictureQueen
May 16, 2007 11:08 a.m.

Please accept the our thanks for the service your family has given. I am very grateful for all those who work diligently for American freedoms. You've given beyond measure. I realize daily that the things we take so much for granted have been bought with sacrifice such as yours. God bless you and yours with peace and comfort. My family honors you today.

ttc248
May 16, 2007 10:43 a.m.