Robert Allen discusses his son, Lou, and the proposed renaming of the post office in Chester, NY. Barbara Allen listens, in back. Rep. John Hall (D-NY) is right.

CHESTER NY – Lt. Lou Allen’s family gathered around Congressman John Hall at their Chester home Monday afternoon as the House member made if official; he has introduced legislation to honor the memory of Lt. Louis Allen by renaming the Chester Post Office in his name.  Lou Allen was a Chester high school teacher.

Allen’s father, Robert, would like a memorial of some kind, in Milford, where Allen, his wife, and their four sons lived, when he died in Iraq.

Allen and Capt. Philip Esposito, were killed in an apparent fragging, while in Iraq four years ago. The sergeant, Alberto Martinez, who was charged with throwing a bomb that killed both, was acquitted in a military trial, leaving many unanswered questions for Lt. Allen’s father, Robert.

Hall said the day was bittersweet, but meant to honor Lou’s memory.

Robert Allen said they are also attempting to have his son posthumously awarded a Purple Heart medal. He “proudly” wears his son’s dog tags around his neck alongside his own.

Lou’s widow, Barbara Allen, said she appreciates the “character and courage” of Hall, who supports their family at a time when a military court dismissed the charges against the accused killer.

Robert Allen noted Martinez had offered to plead guilty to murder and accept life in prison. The military turned the offer down and the family was not informed of the decision until Martinez was found not guilty.