U.S. Army Europe Public Affairs —
POZNAN, Poland – A 1st Cavalry Division Soldier deployed in support of Atlantic Resolve was killed in an accident in the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Jan. 13.
Spc. Andrew S. Ortega was a Horizontal Construction Engineer with the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team.
The incident remains under investigation.
"On behalf of the Soldiers and Families of Ironhorse, I extend my deepest condolences to Spc. Ortega's family. Andrew's service and dedication to the brigade's mission are displays of his true character and professionalism," said Col. Wilson R. Rutherford IV, commander of the 1st ABCT.
"Andrew is a true American hero, who served his country honorably and made many sacrifices in support of our mission. The Ironhorse Soldiers are deeply saddened by our loss."
Ortega joined the Army in September 2016 and arrived at Fort Hood, Texas, March 2017. He was 32 years old. He was on his first rotation to Europe in support of Atlantic Resolve.
His home of record is Hernandez, New Mexico. His awards and decorations include the Army Service Ribbon and the National Defense Service Medal.
Any queries about the accident should be directed to the U.S. Army Europe Public Affairs Office Media Desk at usarmy.wiesbaden.usareur.list.pao-media-desk@mail.mil.