EOD Tech SGT James Johnston died as a result of wounds sustained from small arms fire in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan on Tuesday, June 25, 2019. He was an Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician attached to a Special Forces detachment conducting combat operations.
Also killed in the ambush was MSG Michael Riley of the 10th Special Forces Group. The ambush also wounded several individuals.
James Johnston, age 24, was from Trumansburg, New York. He was assigned to the 79th Ordnance Battalion (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), 71st Ordnance Group, Fort Hood, Texas. He entered the service in July 2013 as an explosive ordnance disposal specialist.
His awards and decorations include a Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Action Badge, Senior Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge, and Explosive Ordnance Badge.
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References:
July 6, 2019. “Sergeant who died in Afghanistan comes home to Fort Hood”, Army Times.
June 27, 2019. Department of Defense Identifies Army Casualties, DoD News Release.
June 26, 2019. Two U.S. Service Members Killed in Afghanistan, Resolute Support. (statement).
Photo of SGT James Johnston: Provided by Fort Hood Press Center.