Fort Hood authorities on Tuesday identified a soldier who died after a boating incident in Bell County over the weekend as 24-year-old Spc. Francisco Gilberto Hernandezvargas.
The soldier’s remains were found on Stillhouse Hollow Lake on Sunday, about 20 miles from the post, according to a statement from Fort Hood. The incident is under investigation.
Lt. Col. Neil Armstrong, commander of 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, said Hernandezvargas’ fellow soldiers are “heartbroken by the loss.”
“Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this difficult time,” Armstrong said. “Specialist Hernandezvargas served his country honorably both stateside while at Fort Hood and abroad in Korea and Romania and this tragic loss is felt by every member within our formation.”
Hernandezvargas, whose hometown is listed as Woodside, New York, entered the army in 2017 and served as an automatic rifleman.
The soldier was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since December of 2017.
Hernandezvargas’ awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon and the Army Service Ribbon.
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