Two US soldiers deployed in the Middle East died this week in a non-combat-related incident while supporting operations against ISIS.
On Wednesday, the Department of Defense confirmed the deaths as part of an ongoing indigenous resolve operation. The first soldier, Sergeant Emmett Wilfred Goodridge Jr., 40, from Roseville, Minnesota, died on Sunday at Camp Beauling in Kuwait due to a battle-related incident. He was assigned to the 10th Infantry Division at Fort Drum, New York.
Just three days later, Staff Sergeant Saul Fabian Gonzalez, 26, from Pullman, Michigan, passed away in Erbil, Iraq. Gonzalez was part of the 101st Airborne Division stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
Both incidents are currently under investigation, although specific details haven’t been released yet. The deaths are particularly poignant, coming in a week when the nation reflects on military service. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks faced by military personnel, even in non-combat situations.
Inquiries for additional details from the DOD have not received immediate responses.
