One of the three soldiers who died in a training accident at a Georgia base was identified as Pfc. Antonio Garcia, a triplet leaving behind two sisters.
The training accident occurred on Sunday at Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield when a Bradley Fighting Vehicle crashed and was submerged in a stream, killing three and injuring three others.
Garcia, 21, was one of the three soldiers who lost his life in the accident. The young soldier leaves behind two siblings and his parents. In a statement, the Garcia family shared their devastation.
“As a family we are shocked and devastated by the loss of our beloved Antonio. While his time was far too short, we are so thankful and appreciative of the time we had with him. He was the most brave, kind-hearted and loving person we have had the privilege of knowing. He loved his family, friends and his country. We love him with every fiber of our beings and we will cherish and celebrate his life and carry on his memory forever,” they wrote.
Pfc. Antonio Garcia’s family says “While his time was far too short we are so thankful and appreciative of the time we had with him. He was the most brave, kind-hearted and loving person we have had the privilege of knowing.” #AZFamily pic.twitter.com/1OV2Ls1zRE
— Lauren Reimer (@LaurenReimerTV) October 22, 2019
“We ask that others do the same, while also respecting the privacy and space we need to heal in such a heart-breaking time,” the family added.
Garcia, who was from Peoria, Arizona, will be honored statewide, following the order by Gov. Doug Ducey to lower the flags in remembrance of the soldier.
U.S. Army Pfc. Antonio Garcia served our nation honorably. He will be remembered for his commitment to duty and willingness to serve. In honor of his life and service, I’ve ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff tomorrow. https://t.co/hKc0yThU3u
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) October 22, 2019
Two of the three soldiers hospitalized following the accident have been released. The third is expected to be released soon, as the injuries are not life-threatening.
The two soldiers who died alongside Garcia were identified as Sgt. 1st Class Bryan Jenkins, 41, and Cpl. Thomas Cole, 22, who were from Florida and Ohio, respectively.
