
Giuliana Veneruz Ashby
My son and I met Kristopher last July while we were in Italy visiting family. He rode the train from Sacile to Pordenone and tried to help us get into Aviano AFB for the forth of July celebration. We were not successful and entry was denied since we were not on the "list" of people that had to be pre-approved. This was explained to us by the Italian MP at the gate after she told us to pull over to the side. Kristopher rolled down the window and we listen about the e-mail that was sent to everyone in base letting them know of the rules about anyone interested in participating at the celebration. Kristopher smiled, shrugged his shoulders and replied that he had been out on DBL for the past month and didn't see any e-mail. After explaining the disappointing news to my italian speaking sister who was the driver of the car, and to my nephew at the wheel of the other car, we turned around and headed to dinner.
After trying a couple of restaurant that we found closed, we finally found one open. We had a chance to socialize and had fun.
We remember Kristopher fondly for his kindness and humor and we're happy to have had this chance to have met him. We're sad that we'll never be able to see him again. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and to everyone that loved him that are still trying to deal with this tragedy.
Giuliana Veneruz Ashby