Blackhawk Crash Claims 14 Soldiers

Blackhawk Crash Claims 14 US Soldiers

The Department of Defense announced the death of 14 soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Aug. 22 in Multaka, Iraq, of injuries suffered when their helicopter crashed. All of the soldiers were members of Task Force Lightning.

The military said initial indications showed the UH-60 helicopter experienced a mechanical problem and was not brought down by hostile fire, but the cause of the crash was still under investigation. It was one of two helicopters on a nighttime operation.

Killed were the following soldiers assigned to the 4th Squadron, 6th U.S. Air Cavalry Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.:

Capt. Corry P. Tyler, 29, of Georgia.

Chief Warrant Officer Paul J. Flynn, 28, of Whitsett, N.C.

Sgt. Matthew L. Tallman, 30, of Groveland, Calif.

Spc. Rickey L. Bell, 21, of Caruthersville, Mo.

Also killed were the following soldiers assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii:

Capt. Derek A. Dobogai, 26, of Fond du Lac, Wis.

Staff Sgt. Jason L. Paton, 25, of Poway, Calif.

Sgt. Garrett I. McLead, 23, of Rockport, Texas.

Cpl. Jeremy P. Bouffard, 21, of Middlefield, Mass.

Cpl. Phillip J. Brodnick, 25, of New Lenox, Ill.

Cpl. Joshua S. Harmon, 20, of Mentor, Ohio.

Cpl. Nathan C. Hubbard, 21, of Clovis, Calif.

Spc. Michael A. Hook, 25, of Altoona, Penn.

Spc. Jessy G. Pollard, 22, of Springfield, Mo.

Spc. Tyler R. Seideman, 20, of Lincoln, Ark.

This is a tragic loss to the family and friends of these Soldiers, the Brigade, and to all of America. All of you will be in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.