US Army Corporal John P. Sigsbee, 21, of Waterville, passed away Wednesday, January 16, 2008 in Balad, Iraq, from injuries sustained in the line of fire, while on combat duty. John was born August 3, 1986, in New Hartford, the son of James and Susan Cornelius Sigsbee. He was a graduaute of Waterville Central School, class of 2004, and attended MVCC. In October of 2005, John entered the US Army and was a member of the 101st Airborne Division 32nd Calvary Unit. In July of 2006, Cpl. Sigsbee was injured in a roadside bombing outside Balad, Iraq. A devoted and proud soldier, John returned to Balad after recuperating from his injuries. Cpl. Sigsbee was a recipient of the Purple Heart and received the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Medal of Valor, the Army Achievement Medal and was a Weapon Qualifications Expert. Cpl. Sigsbee was a member of the Helmuth-Ingalls American Legion Post #232, Franklin Springs, the VFW Post #9591, Clinton and the National Purple Heart Society. John enjoyed hunting, target shooting, spending time with his family and friends and was an avid collector of anything "military". His love for the military came to John naturally. He was extremely close to his grandfather and namesake, John Cornelius, who served in two branches of the service. John's study of family history also revealed that the Sigsbee's have a long and distinguished record in the military. He is survived by his mother, Susan of Waterville; his father, James of Vernon; two brothers, Jason Sigsbee and his friend, Kelly and Jarid Sigsbee, all of Waterville; a niece, Cassandra Sigsbee of Waterville; his maternal grandparents, John and Genevieve Cornelius of Deansboro, who often referred to John as their special anniversary gift, because he was born on their wedding anniversary; his paternal grandparents, Donald and Margaret (Peggy) Sigsbee of Madison; his paternal great grandfather, Robert Sigsbee of Hamilton; and many aunts, uncles, cousins; and special friends. A celebration of life will be held Friday at 10 am in the auditorium of the Waterville High School, Madison St, Waterville, with full military honors. Interment will follow the service at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville. Calling hours are Thursday from 4-8 pm in the auditorium. Legionaires will meet at the auditorium Thusday evening at 6 o'clock for services. An informal gathering, for family and friends, will take place on Friday evening at 6:30 at the Helmuth-Ingalls American Legion Post in Franklin Springs, upon everyones return from the cemetery. Arrangements are with the Kloster-Northrop & Bentz Funeral Home, Waterville. "Hey, how's it going."