Updated at: 11/12/2009 10:23 AM | KSAX.com
By: By Matt Standal
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Minnesota Soldier Who Died in Afghanistan Remembered in Remer

He was described as a soldier small in stature, but big in heart.

24-year-old Army National Guard Specialist George Cauley died in Afghanistan last month, the victim of a roadside bomb in Helmand Province.  Members of his unit, the 114th Transportation Unit out of Duluth, describe him as a young man who loved music, souped-up cars, and had a great sense of humor.

Cauley's life and his decorated military service was honored today at Northland High School in Remer as members of Minnesota's Honor Guard, dozens of area veterans, and hundreds of local folks came out to commemorate the fallen National Guardsman.

Colonel Gregg Parks, Commander of the 114th Transportation Unit, also known as the "Wolf Pack" told the crowd that Cauley had quickly taken on the responsibility of bearing the unit's colors on regular patrols and proudly holding the flag of the 114th Unit.  

"Typically, that's an honor reserved for only the best soldiers," Parks said. "And he was one of those.

"We always taught him to be himself, work hard, and people will stand up and notice him," said Specialist George Cauleys father Richard Cauley, of Remer. "And they did, they really did." 

For his service to the United States of America, Specialist George Cauley was awarded numerous military decorations throughout his career, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.  He is buried at Camp Ripley.