A Schweinfurt, Germany-based soldier has been killed in Iraq, the Department of Defense announced Thursday in a news release.
Pfc. Ryan J. Hill, 20, of Keizer, Ore., died Saturday in Baghdad of wounds suffered when a roadside bomb exploded near his Humvee. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment “Blue Spaders,” part of 1st Infantry Division’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team.
Hill attended McNary High School for three years, where he played football, principal Ken Parshall told the Statesman Journal newspaper in Salem, Ore.
“It’s a tragic loss for the family and community,” Parshall said.
“We’re very thankful for the kind of life that Ryan has lived, the honor that he’s shown to his country,” Rev. Scott Erickson told the newspaper. “He was a high-caliber individual, a person of incredible character.”
This is the 12th death the battalion has suffered since deploying in early August. Overall, the 2nd Brigade has had 18 fatalities since beginning its yearlong deployment. The unit, which is in several locations throughout the country, is stationed primarily in and around Baghdad and Ramadi, two of the most volatile locations in the country.
A memorial service has been scheduled for 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Ledward Barracks Chapel in Schweinfurt, a spokesman for 1-26’s rear detachment said.