 Delaware County Daily Times -- A Hawaii-based soldier from Chester Heights died in Balad, Iraq, on New Year’s Eve, the Department of Defense announced Monday.
Pfc. Christopher W. Lotter, 20, died of wounds after being hit by enemy forces in Tikrit. He had been assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks.
A family member declined comment Monday night.
Lotter joined the Army last January and came to Hawaii in June, according to Stephanie Gardin of the Public Affairs Office at Schofield.
As for his specialty, Gardin said Lotter was a cannon crew member. Gardin was unfamiliar with details regarding Lotter’s mission at the time of his injury and referred inquiries to the 25th Infantry Division in Iraq.
At press time Monday, an officer said the deputy public affairs officer for the 25th Division in Iraq would be available today.
In an e-mailed response Monday night, U.S. Rep. Joseph Sestak, D-7, of Edgmont, offered his condolences to Lotter’s family here at home, as well as his military comrades in the 25th Infantry Division.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss in action in Iraq of Private First Class Christopher Warren Lotter, U.S. Army. He, his family and his comrades in the 25th Infantry Division are in my thoughts and prayers,” responded Sestak. “Every good American is humbled and honored to know that young men and women like PFC Lotter will stand in our defense thousands of miles from our shores with courage and the determination to represent the best of our national character.”
Members of Sestak’s staff have been in contact with members of the Lotter family over the last few days.
“At this time, the family is receiving the very best support available,” Sestak stated. “I have written to express my personal condolences and appreciation for the sacrifice of this family to PFC Lotter’s family.”
According to Military Times Honor the Fallen Web site, 4,831 service men and women have been killed supporting Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom as of Dec. 31, 2008. |
I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
"Nunquam Aerumna Nec Proelio Fractum"
(Never Broken By Hardship Or Battle)
7th FA Motto