82nd Airborne Soldier Killed in Iraq

An 82nd Airborne Division paratrooper died from injuries sustained when his patrol was attacked with an improvised explosive device near Baghdad, Iraq, Tuesday.

Staff Sgt. Sandy R. Britt, 30, of Apopka, Fla., was an infantry squad leader with 1st Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, Second Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, according to officials.

“Staff Sgt. Britt represented what is expected from 82nd paratroopers and the corps of noncommissioned officers,” said Staff. Sgt. Larry Coburn, Britt’s former team leader. “His willingness to serve his country and lead great soldiers [are] just two examples of the type of soldier Britt was.”

Britt joined the Army in October 2003 after serving in the Navy as a diver. He completed infantry training in February 2004 and the basic airborne course in March 2004 at Fort Benning Ga.

In 2005, Britt completed the first part of explosive ordinance training, and he was assigned in October 2005 to the 1st Battalion.

“Staff Sgt. Britt was a great friend, paratrooper, loving father and husband, as well as a patriot,” said Sgt. Rodrick Solis, a fellow team leader. “He will be greatly missed by his family, his unit, and his country. We will never forget [his] sacrifice and contributions to his country.”

Britt’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.

Britt is survived by his wife, Valorie Britt; his son, Taylor Britt, both of Raeford; his mother, Sarah Arnold of Apopka, Fla; and his father, Terry Britt.

The unit will hold a memorial service in Iraq.