Posted on 07/28/2006 6:34:58 AM PDT by CedarDave
The Department of Defense announced Thursday that it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Andrew Velez, a 22-year-old Army specialist from Lubbock.
According to a statement issued by Fort Irwin in California, Velez died of a non-combat-related gunshot wound early Monday morning.
Velez is the second of two brothers who have died while serving their country.
Jose "Freddy" Velez, a 23-year-old Army corporal, was shot and killed in 2004 while fighting in Iraq. He received two Purple Hearts and a Silver and Bronze Star for his bravery.
John Wagstaffe, a spokesman for Fort Irwin, said that it may be several weeks before the Army completes its investigation into Andrew Velez's death.
University Medical Center will host a prayer service for Velez at 9 a.m. Friday in the University Medical Center chapel.
Funeral arrangements for the slain soldier have not been finalized, but the family expects that a burial service will occur sometime next week.
The family requests that any cards or letters be sent to 2717 91st St., Lubbock, TX 79423.
Earlier threads:
Lubbock family mourns the loss of a second son
Texas family loses both sons to war (True sacrifice from Texas !)
Fallen brothers gave their all in war and in life (please pray for the Velez family)
This has got to be the worst news a family could get. My prayers are with them.
Friendly fire?
+
non-combat-related gunshot
That being the case, the CID is required to investigate......I'm sure they jumped right on it. There are many possibilities, some which the family would not wish to be publicized....the CID's ROI will tell the story.
Light-A-Candle
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