Joint Base Lewis-McChord Military Intelligence Battalion Soldier Dies in Afghanistan

(Editor's note: This is from Joint Base Lewis-McChord's Public Affairs Office)

According to the Dept. of Defense, Staff Sgt. Raul M. Guerra, 37, died July 4, in Spin Boldak, Afghanistan, while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to the 502nd Military Intelligence Battalion, 201st Battlefield Surveillance Brigade, Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

According to unit records, Staff Sgt. Guerra entered the Army in March
1999. After completing Army Basic Training and Advanced Individual
Training in MOS 63B (Light Wheel Vehicle Mechanic), he was stationed at
Fort Bragg, N.C. While stationed at Fort Bragg Staff Sgt. Guerra
deployed to Afghanistan three times (March - August 2002, March -
September 2004, June 2005 - January 2006).

In 2007 he reclassified to MOS 35M (Human Intelligence Collector) and
was stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia. While stationed at Fort Stewart
he deployed to Iraq from October 2007 through December 2008.

Staff Sgt. Guerra was stationed in Germany from May 2009 through July
2011. He arrived at Joint Base Lewis-McChord July 2011 and was assigned
to the 201st Battlefield Surveillance Brigade. He deployed to
Afghanistan with his battalion in May. This was his fifth deployment.

Sgt. Rodriguez's civilian and military education includes a high school
diploma (1992), Military Occupational Specialty 63B: Light Wheel Vehicle
Mechanic (1999), Combat Life Savers Course (2012), Unit Safety Officer
Course (2010), EO Leaders (2009), Advance Leader Course (2009), Military
Occupational Specialty 35M: Human Intelligence Collector (2007), Warrior
Leader Course (2005), Airborne (1999).

His awards and decorations include Joint Service Commendation Medal (two
awards), Army Commendation Medal (two awards), Army Good Conduct Medal
(four awards), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign
Medal with campaign star, Iraq Campaign Medal with campaign star (two
awards), Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on
Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Ribbon (five awards), NATO Medal,
Parachutist Badge, Driver and Mechanic 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 Staff Sgt. Guerra.