CAMP BONDSTEEL, Kosovo, July 6– A U.S. Army Soldier, Pfc. Alexander Klass, 20, serving as part of NATO's Kosovo Forces Regional Command-East, assigned to 2nd Battalion 162nd Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oregon National Guard, died at Camp Novo Selo on July 4. The incident is currently under investigation; the Army notified the soldier's next of kin.
Klass, a resident of Willamina, Ore. entered the Army on January 17, 2019, and completed basic training and Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) training 11B Infantry, Fort Benning, Ga. August 16, 2019. He then received an assignment to D Company, 2nd Battalion 162nd Infantry Regiment, November 12, 2019. He served as a Rifleman as part of the KFOR 27 deployment to Kosovo since March 2020.
"This is a tragic loss felt throughout our organization. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Pfc. Klass’ family and friends," said Regional Command- East Commander Col. Eric Riley.
Klass’ awards include the Army Service Ribbon and NATO Medal and recently recognized by his Battalion Commander for his outstanding performance during a training exercise. More information will be released as it becomes available.
For inquiries, please contact Regional Command-East Public Affairs Officer Maj. Wayne Clyne at wayne.c.clyne.mil@mail.mil.