Army Mourns Loss of Troops in Iraq and Kuwait; Investigations Ongoing

On Wednesday, the Department of Defense reported that two U.S. Army soldiers stationed in the Middle East have lost their lives in unrelated non-combat incidents. Authorities are currently looking into both incidents.

Staff Sgt. Saul Fabian Gonzalez, 26, from Pullman, Michigan, passed away on Tuesday in Erbil, Iraq. The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) reports that Gonzalez held the position of an Apache helicopter mechanic with D Troop, 2nd Squadron, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

“The passing of Staff Sergeant Gonzalez deeply saddens the 101st CAB,” stated Col. Tyler Partridge, brigade commander.  Partridge continued, “His journey from Private to Non-Commissioned Officer showcased unwavering dedication, resilience, and integrity.” Gonzalez’s legacy will endure in the essence of the Cavalry and in the hearts of those who stood by him.

In February 2018, Gonzalez joined the Army and was assigned to Fort Campbell later that same year. He has received several accolades, including the Army Commendation Medal with a “C” device, six Army Achievement Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Army Aviation Badge.

In a separate report, it has been confirmed that Sgt. 1st Class Emmett Wilfred Goodridge Jr., 40, from Roseville, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday at Camp Buehring, Kuwait. He received his assignment to the 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, located at Fort Drum, New York.

“We are profoundly grieved by the loss of Sgt. 1st Class Goodridge,” stated Maj. Geoffrey A. Carmichael of the 10th Mountain Division. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.” We are assisting his family and are fully engaged with the current investigation.

Goodridge, an experienced veteran with three tours of duty, possessed a range of qualifications, including Ranger, Parachutist, Air Assault, and both Combat and Expert Infantryman Badges.