Fort Campbell helicopter mechanic killed outside of combat in Iraq

FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. (FOX 56) — A soldier from Michigan who had been based in Fort Campbell was killed on Tuesday in a non-combat-related incident.

The Department of Defense (DoD) announced in a news release on Wednesday that Staff Sergeant Saul Fabian Gonzalez, 26, of Pullman, Michigan, died on June 17 in Erbil, Iraq.

Defense officials wrote that Gonzalez’s death was due to a non-combat-related incident that is still under investigation.

“While his passing was not combat-related, it is felt by all who knew him,” the 101st Combat Air Brigade (CAB) wrote in a social media post on Wednesday.

He was reportedly assigned to D Troop, 2nd Squadron, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Captain Andrew Lightsey of the 101st Airborne Division said Gonzalez joined the army in February 2018 and was assigned to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, six months later.

Gonzalez was reportedly awarded the Army Commendation Medal with a “C” device, the Army Achievement Medal with six oak leaf clusters, the Army Good Conduct Medal with a bronze clasp and one loop, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Aviation Badge, and the Army Air Assault Badge.

“The 101st CAB mourns the loss of Staff Sergeant Gonzalez,” said Col. Tyler Partridge, commander, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. “His journey with the 101st, from Private to Non-Commissioned Officer, was one of commitment, grit, and honor. His service will forever be etched in our memories, and his legacy will ride on with the spirit of the Cavalry in the hearts of all who served alongside him.”