Fort Bragg Soldier Killed By Explosive Device In Iraq

A soldier assigned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, was killed recently as part of a security mission with allies in Mosul, Iraq, the Department of Defense announced Sunday.

First Lt. Weston C. Lee, 25, of Bluffton, Georgia, died April 29, from injuries while conducting security as part of advise-and-assist support to partnered forces supporting Operation Inherent Resolve. The incident is under investigation, officials said.

Lee was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 325th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, at Fort Bragg. He died from wounds sustained in a blast outside the city.

Lee joined the Army in March 2015 and was assigned as a platoon leader to the 2nd Brigade. He deployed to Iraq in December 2016. It was Lee’s first deployment, Army officials said.

“First Lieutenant Wes Lee was an extraordinary young man and officer. He was exactly the type of leader that our paratroopers deserve,” said Col. Pat Work, commander of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team. “Our sincere condolences and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Lee received the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Ranger Tab, the Parachutist Badge and the Army Service Ribbon. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal, reports WRAL.

An unofficial Army site said Lee's injuries happened when he stepped on an improvised explosive device.

The news of the casualty comes as two Army Rangers were killed in an anti-ISIS raid in Afghanistan this week. The Pentagon is investigating whether the two soldiers were the victims of friendly fire.

»Photo of First Lt. Weston C. Lee via 82nd Airborne