Two U.S. Army soldiers have died in separate non-combat incidents while deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, according to official statements from the Department of Defense this week.
Staff Sergeant Saul Fabian Gonzalez, 26, of Pullman, Michigan, died Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in Erbil, Iraq. Gonzalez was an Apache helicopter mechanic assigned to D Troop, 2nd Squadron, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
The Army noted the incident was not combat-related, and no further details have been released at this time.
Gonzalez’s death is mourned through the ranks of the 101st.
“The 101st CAB mourns the loss of Staff Sergeant Gonzalez,” said Col. Tyler Partridge, commander of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. “His journey with the 101st, from Private to Non-Commissioned Officer, was one of commitment, grit, and honor. His service will forever be etched in our memories, and his legacy will ride on with the spirit of the Cavalry in the hearts of all who served alongside him.”
Gonzalez enlisted in the Army in February 2018 and had served for over seven years. His dedication was reflected in his extensive list of awards and decorations, including:
- Army Commendation Medal with “C” device
- Army Achievement Medal with six oak leaf clusters
- Army Good Conduct Medal with bronze clasp and one loop
- National Defense Service Medal
- Army Aviation Badge
- Army Air Assault Badge
Just two days prior, Sgt. 1st Class Emmett Wilfred Goodridge Jr., 40, of Roseville, Minnesota, died Sunday, June 15, in Camp Buehring, Kuwait. Like Gonzalez, Goodridge’s death was also described as non-combat related, and the incident remains under investigation.
Goodridge was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, based at Fort Drum, New York. He was deployed to the region in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the U.S. mission to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria.
The Department of Defense has not released additional details surrounding either soldier’s death. The Salty Soldier has reached out to the Pentagon for further information.
As the Army continues its investigation, both soldiers are being remembered for their service, sacrifice, and dedication to duty.
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