The United States Department of Defense announced the death of 26-year-old Staff Sgt. Saul Fabian Gonzalez of Pullman, a small community in Allegan County.
The release stated he died June 17 in Iraq in a non-combat related incident.
Gonzalez joined the Army in 2018 and was currently an Apache helicopter mechanic assigned to the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky supporting military efforts in Erbil, Iraq.
The decorated soldier was part of Operation Inherent Resolve; a combined joint task force working to defeat ISIS and develop a security framework in the region.
His commander, Col. Tyler Partridge, stated “His journey with the 101st, from Private to Non-Commissioned Officer was one of commitment, grit, and honor. His service will forever be etched in our memories, and his legacy will ride on with the spirit of the Cavalry in the hearts of all who served alongside him.”
Military officials are releasing few details about the incident, saying it is still under investigation.
