The Department of Defense identified today the Army soldier killed in action in Afghanistan yesterday, Dec. 20, 2002. Sgt. Steven Checo, 22, of New York City, a member of the 504th Infantry, Fort Bragg, N.C., was killed when his unit came under attack from hostile forces.

“Sergeant Checo’s death is a reminder to us of the sacrifices being made everyday by the dedicated men and women of our armed forces,” said Assistant Secretary of Defense Victoria Clarke. “His death, as well as his dedicated service, strengthens our resolve in pursuit of terrorists, terrorist networks and those who harbor and support them,” she said.