In the News

A Carbondale woman will work with U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright to help locals navigate government agencies.

Lee Anne Pugliese is the first recipient of a Congressional Gold Star Family Fellowship for Cartwright’s office. She’ll work at the representative’s district offices as a Congressional Advocate. Established by the U.S. House of Representatives, the Gold Star Family Fellows Program provides employment opportunities for families of service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice to our nation.

In 2005, Pugliese’s husband, the late SFC George A. Pugliese, was killed in Ramadi, Iraq, while serving with the Pennsylvania National Guard. In addition to Lee Anne, he is survived by the couple’s three children: Nicholas, Jonathon and Avianna.

“I will forever be grateful for all the support my family has received,” Lee Anne Pugliese said. “One small act of kindness can make a huge difference. I really appreciate this opportunity to work with Congressman Cartwright’s team, where I can be part of making a difference.”

Cartwright added, “To our fallen servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice for defending our nation, we promised that we would be there for their families. This fellowship is not only about keeping this promise, but also about adding to our team someone who knows better than most what it means to give back to our country.”