DOD IDENTIFIES ARMY SOLDIER KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN

May 20, 2002

The Department of Defense identified today the Special Forces soldier killed in action in Afghanistan yesterday. Sgt. Gene Arden Vance Jr., 38, of Morgantown, W.Va., a member of the 19th Special Forces Group of the West Virginia National Guard, was killed when his unit came under attack from hostile forces.”Sergeant Vance’s death reminds 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.