Seyboth Tirador, who was 29, was working as an Arabic-spreaking interrogator at the time of her death. She was on her second tour of duty.
According to a release sent out by the school district, Tirador had enlisted in the Army in 1999 and had lived in Washington for the last few years. She leaves behind her husband, Mickey, who is also serving in Iraq, whom she met while serving in the Army in Germany. The two were married for two years.
“This is a terrible loss for our South Colonie family and our thoughts and prayers are with Amy’s husband and her family,” said Superintendent of Schools Jonathan Buhner.
During her time at Colonie Central High School, Seyboth Tirador was a member of the National Honor Society and a Regents graduate. She graduated the high school with a 90 average and ranking 59th in a class of 384 students, the district said.
She was also a member of the school Key Club and a four-year member of the school band, playing trumpet in the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Orchestra.
“I think what I remember most about Amy was her incredible spirit,” said band director Karen Macwatters. “She was such a highly spirited person. When I heard this tragic news, that was what I thought of immediately, her bright smile.”
Macwatters said Seyboth Tirador was a highly talented trumpeter and always came to class prepared and motivated.
“I heard that she had gone on to the military and I knew it was a terrific choice just because of her spirit and her passion for life,” Macwatters said. “I will miss her very, very much.”
For more on this story, check back at www.spotlightnews.com, or read the Wednesday, Nov. 11, print edition of the Colonie Spotlight.
