Honoring Sgt. Sarah Roque: A Memorial to Celebrate Her Legacy

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Ligonier, IN — The Community Foundation of Noble County is partnering with the family of Sgt. Sarah Roque to establish a permanent memorial at the West Noble School Corporation Memorial Gardens. This tribute aims to honor the life and service of Sgt. Roque, a beloved community member and U.S. Army soldier who was tragically murdered in October at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, where she was stationed.

Originally from Ligonier, Indiana, Sgt. Roque graduated as class president from West Noble High School in 2020. She enlisted in the U.S. Army on June 30, 2020, to pursue her dream of becoming a Combat Engineer. Her career began with One Station Unit Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and she continued her journey with the 50th Multirole Bridge Company, 5th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade. She served as a bridge crewmember and boat operator from October 20, 2020, to August 21, 2022, including a tour of duty in Poland.

In 2022, Sgt. Roque re-enlisted to become a Mine Detection Dog Handler, serving as a Team Leader in the 94th Engineer Detachment, Engineer Mine Dog Detachment, until her passing. Her dedication to service earned her numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon.

Known for her kindness, bright spirit, and caring heart, Sarah was a light to everyone she met, welcoming others with compassion and love. Her tragic passing has left her family, friends, and community heartbroken.

To celebrate her legacy and the joy she brought into countless lives, the Community Foundation of Noble County is working closely with Sarah’s family to create a lasting memorial. This initiative provides an opportunity for the community to come together, remember Sarah’s contributions, and ensure her legacy endures.

The Foundation invites individuals and businesses to contribute to the memorial fund.

Online Donations: Visit cfnoble.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=2132

By Check: Make checks payable to Community Foundation of Noble County, include “In Honor of Sgt. Sarah Roque” in the memo, and mail to PO Box 210, Ligonier, IN.

If you are unable to donate, you can still support this effort by sharing Sarah’s story with others to raise awareness and inspire action.

“Sgt. Sarah Roque was an incredible leader, both as class president and in her service to our country,” said Jazmin Herrera, Program Director, “This memorial is a reflection of the love and respect our community has for her. She touched so many lives with her kindness, and this tribute will honor her memory and ensure her light continues to shine.

For more information about the Sgt. Sarah Roque Memorial or to learn how you can support this initiative, please contact the Community Foundation of Noble County at 260-894-3335 or jazmin@cfnoble.org.