Summerville Soldier Dies in Afghanistan

The Department of Defense announced Monday the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

Chief Warrant Officer Curtis S. Reagan, 43, of Summerville died March 29 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, from a non-combat related illness. He was assigned to the 603rd Aviation Support Battalion, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. 

Reagan's brigade's Facebook page had this message posted Monday morning:

Task Force Falcon Family,

It is with sorrow I inform you one of our most respected and senior Maintenance Test Pilots died from non-combat related cause on Kandahar Airfield, March 29, 2013. Our Fallen Hero embodied the warrior ethos and will be remembered as a true leader. Our thoughts and prayers are with his Family, friends and fellow Soldiers for their loss and during this time of grieving. His legacy will be remembered by his comrades and the great memories of serving with such a great patriot will live with us. 

A true warrior and patriot, he deployed even with a knowledge he would soon retire and attend law school. While deployed, he led from the front by enhancing our capabilities. He will join our recent Heroes in peace, and we will stand tall through this hardship and honor our seven fallen warriors by continuing the mission, as they would demand. Our mission here must continue as we pave the way for Afghan independence, and support our partners for a better future in Afghanistan. Their sacrifices in a time of war only strengthen our resolve. 

Few have the honor of serving with our Nation’s finest sons and daughters, and their losses do not become easier. We will not forget their service and will honor their sacrifices that protect the freedoms Americans enjoy and the positive changes made in the countries we serve. 

I again urge everyone affected by these tragedies to take advantage of the services the Army provides, to seek support from Family, friends, unit family readiness groups, and community. Our committed leaders, volunteers and Families are there to support you. They can be a pillar of support during these difficult times. 

Marne Air, Rock of the Marne.

Colonel Allan Pepin, Commander, Task Force Falcon