JBLM Releases More Information About "Model Soldier" Spc. Vilmar Galarza Hernandez

(Editor's note: This came today from Joint Base Lewis-McChord)

According to the Dept. of Defense, Spc. , 21, of Salinas, CA, died Saturday in Zharay, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, when enemy forces  attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device.

He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

According to unit records, Spc. Galarza Hernandez entered the Army in August 2009. He reported to Fort Benning, GA., for Initial Army Training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for MOS 11B (Infantryman).

He was assigned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord in January 2010, and upon arrival Spc. Galarza Hernandez was assigned to 4-23 Infantry, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division. The unit deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in April. This was his first deployment.

His company commander noted him as “the model Soldier,” said Capt. Brandon Wohlschlegel, Bravo Company Commander, 4-23 Infantry Regiment. “Under some of the most difficult conditions I have ever seen, Spc. Galarza Hernandez was always doing the right thing.  He was a rock that we could all depend on in any situation.  Spc. Galarza Hernadez was the kind of guy that I would follow anywhere knowing he was in the lead.”

Spc. Galarza Hernandez’ civilian and military education includes a high school diploma (2008), and MOS 11B (Infantryman).

His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, The Purple Heart Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon, NATO Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

On behalf of the entire Joint Base Lewis-McChord military and civilian community, we extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Spc. Galarza Hernandez.