Paratrooper Dies in Iraq

FORT BRAGG — An 82nd Airborne Division paratrooper died from injuries sustained when a landmine detonated near his vehicle in Bajyi, Iraq, Friday.

Sgt. 1st Class David Heringes, 36, of Tampa, Fla., was a platoon sergeant with the Forward Support Company, officials said.

“[Heringes] represented everything good about our paratroopers,” said Capt. Desmond Jack. “He always strived to be the best at everything he did.”

Heringes joined the army in November 1991. He completed two overseas tours in Korea from January 1998 to November 1998 and February 2003 to February 2004.

“His willingness to serve his country and lead great soldiers is just two examples of the type of soldier Heringes was. [He] will be sorely missed by all those who had the honor of serving with him. His family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers,” Jack said.

Heringes had one previous combat deployment in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan from September 2004 to November 2004.

He is survived by his wife, Shannan Heringes; his son, Logan and his step-daughter, Cheyenne Ward, all of Raeford.; and his parents, Ronald and Joyce Heringes of Spring Hill, Fla.