Soldier from Vancouver killed in Afghanistan

VANCOUVER, Wash. - The Department of Defense announced the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died August 28 in Jaji, Afghanistan, from wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device.

One of the soldiers, Sgt. Bryce D. Howard, 24, was from Vancouver, Washington.

According to unit records, Howard, a Technical Engineer, entered the military on Jan. 16, 2002.

Howard attended initial entry training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and then reported to Camp Henry, Korea, in August 2002, where he served a 12-month tour.

He reported to Fort Lewis on August 19, 2003, and was assigned to 864th Engineer Battalion, 555th Engineer Brigade.

His civilian and military education includes a high school diploma, Basic Combat Training (2002), the Technical Engineer Qualification Course (2002), Warrior Leaders Course (2004), and Combat Lifesaver Course (2003).

According to the Department of Defense, Howard's awards and decorations include:

- Army Commendation Medal (2 awards),
- Army Achievement Medal,
- Army Good Conduct Medal,
- National Defense Service Medal,
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal,
- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal,
- NCO Professional Development Ribbon,
- Army Service Medal,
- Overseas Service Ribbon
- NATO Medal.

Sgt. Howard was posthumously promoted to his current rank from his previous rank of Corporal.



Information provided by the Department of Defense.