Fort Bragg Soldier from Nash County Killed in Iraq

Fort Bragg, N.C. — A Fort Bragg soldier killed in Iraq this week was from Nash County.

The family of Ryan Russell, 20, was a medic with the 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infanry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team based at Fort Bragg.

Russell grew up in Nash County, and his family currently lives in Ayden.

The military confirmed Tuesday that five other Fort Bragg soldiers were killed in a bombing in the Salahuddin province.

The troops were patrolling near Samarra, a Sunni stronghold, north of Baghdad, when the bomb went off, officials said.

Three other soldiers in the unit were injured the explosion and didn't return to duty, including Pfc. Christopher Ess, of Dunn. He was hit by shrapnel in his right arm and ruptured his eardrum.

The attack was the single largest loss of life in the past three years for the Fort Bragg-based division, division spokesman Maj. Tom Earnhardt said. Fourteen soldiers in the 82nd Airborne have died this year in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The division of about 17,000 soldiers has some 8,300 paratroopers in Iraq and about 6,100 on duty in Afghanistan. Another brigade is scheduled to deploy to Iraq this summer.

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I, too, have know Kathy and the family for about 14 years. This is an awesome family and they have paid the ultimate sacrifice for all of us. Ryan was a typical BOY and did what boys do. I haven't spoken with anyone who doesn't have a great Ryan story. This person is not just a number or statistic he is a much loved son and friend. I know the family covets your prayers and support!!! LOVE YOU RYAN!!

chatterbox_lmw
March 9, 2007 9:49 a.m.

just my2cents I completely agree..... I have known Ryan's family for about 15 yrs and I thank God that his family, friends and I know without a shadow of a doubt, he did know God and he IS in Heaven. WE will see him again!! Kathy--- OUR THOUGHTS, PRAYERS AND HEARTS ARE WITH YOU!!!

ladygc1
March 8, 2007 8:10 p.m.

I went to high school with Ryan he was a GREAT friend. He always knew what to do to cheer you up, there was NEVER a dull moment when you were around him. I am so proud of the man that he became and I will miss him dearly. As to CHRONIC about your little comment stating that he should have gone to college!! He chose to go into the military to fight for your right to attend such luxuries as colleges.....remember that and remember that he died for that and many other luxuries that we take for granted everyday!!!!!

asheds07
March 8, 2007 3:21 p.m.

http://www.reflector.com/local/content/news/stories/2007/03/8/soldier_dies.html

Here'a better article.

just my2cents
March 8, 2007 10:47 a.m.

Well said Barbwh. As a military mom, that means alot to me too. The ignorant comments being made here are by ignorant people who SHOULD realize this is a place to offer thanks and condolances to the family. If you want to rant about the war, gov't etc, go to the proper place. God bless this family and I pray this soldier knew Jesus so they find find peace in knowing he is with The Lord. Thank you Ryan, Godspeed.

just my2cents
March 8, 2007 10:36 a.m.