Joseph L. Pullen
- Jan 2, 2025
- 2 min read
1943 - 2024
OBITUARY
COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR JOSEPH PULLEN (US ARMY RET) POUGHKEEPSIE-Joseph Pullen, a lifelong local resident died on December 31st, 2024. The son of Esther Shea Pullen and Malcolm F Pullen, he is survived by a brother James Pullen, in Florida. His wife Rita Spatafora Pullen predeceased him. A 1961 graduate of Wappingers Central High School, he also graduated from the University of Alabama in 1971 with a B.S. Degree. Mr. Pullen was a retired member of Plumbers Local 21. He worked for thirty years in a profession that he enjoyed and was very good at. In 2001 he retired from the "ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES" with the rank of "COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR". He was awarded the "SILVER STAR" and BRONZE star or gallantry, and the "PURPLE HEART" for wounds received while serving in Vietnam, 1967-1969. He was also decorated with the "LEGION OF MERIT" in Gallantry recognition of his service in Saudi Arabia, during the first gulf war. 1990 through 1991. CSM Pullen was a life member and "Adjutant" of Arlington American Legion Post 1302. He diligently endeavored to improve the operation of Post 1302 to ensure it would better serve the needs of all veterans, and the members of our community. He was enrolled in the "National Purple Heart Hall of Honor" and was a respected life member of the" Vietnam Helicopter Crewmember Association". This organization is comprised exclusively of men who flew combat helicopter missions in Vietnam and adjacent countries. His demise marks the passing of a patriotic citizen soldier who willingly chose to serve the nation, and his comrades, as best he was able. May he rest in peace with his departed brothers in arms. Funeral services are private for immediate family.
Joe as a union brother, fellow car guy and friend. we worked on many jobs over the last 40 + years.WE did a lot of car cruises and car shows together with great memories. Joe was a true patriot serving our country for years , in our union he was given a nick name of G I JOE out of respect for everything he did for our country R.I.P. friend
Joe was my cousin through marriage for over 50 years. He was a true patriot and a man who deserved respect for his concern and actions for others. He mainly kept to himself at home reading history, watching the news, and working on a truck in the garage. He had a wicked sarcastic sense of humor. When asked by my cousin Rita if he wanted to see the movie Platoon he replied, "No thanks, I was in the stage play". We had rare times alone as he drove me to the railroad in New Hamburg. He was saddened by the loss of so many friends due to the effects of Agent Orange. He asked why he was spared. I guess…
Joe was a great man and a true American Patriot, who I was fortunate enough to call a friend. He was a wealth of knowledge and I always enjoyed our conversations. He will be missed. May he rest in eternal peace and may perpetual light shine upon him.