Fallen airman was ‘living her dream’

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Members of the 31st Fighter Wing base honor guard post the colors during the memorial service held Oct. 26 at Aviano Air Base, Italy, in memory of Airman 1st Class Lauren Lagudi, 20. Lagudi was a broadcaster assigned to the American Forces Network Aviano affiliate.


Fallen airman was ‘living her dream’
By Michelle Tan - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Nov 2, 2009 5:59:40 EST

Airman 1st Class Lauren Marie Lagudi was living her dream.

At 20, her ever-present smile and infectious laugh endeared her to those who met her. Her presence and charisma made her a natural on camera, launching her into the broadcasting career she had aspired to since her teens.

In November last year, she survived a 17-day coma caused by toxic shock syndrome and battled her way back to health and back to her first duty station at Aviano Air Base, Italy.

“Even at the young age of 20, she fulfilled her dreams,” said Donna Turner, a longtime family friend.

But on Oct. 20, one day after she was reported missing, Lagudi was found dead near a platform at the train station in Pordenone, just 10 miles from Aviano.


Rest of article at: http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2009/11/airforce_aviano_airman_110209w/