Army Pfc. Hernando Rios
Death: Aug 08, 2005
of Queens N.Y.; assigned to the 1st Battalion 69th Infantry Regiment 256th Brigade Combat Team New York Army National Guard New York City; Died Aug. 8 in Baghdad of injuries sustained Aug. 7 when his Humvee was struck by two improvised explosive devices and he received small-arms fire. Also killed was Spc. Anthony N. Kalladeen. NYC soldier defended underdogs says his family Associated Press Hernando Rios had the sort of kindness that moved him to buy an extra McDonald’s meal and give it to a homeless person. If you needed help Rios was your man. “He was very well known in the neighborhood. If he saw someone getting picked on he would stand up for him” said Jeffrey Santiago a longtime friend. Rios29 of New York City Died Aug. 8 in Baghdad from injuries he sustained the day before when his vehicle came under attack. He was based in New York. “He was always looking out for people always trying to defend the people that can’t defend themselves” said Rios’ half brother Pfc. Ramon Germosen. From Iraq he sent home photographs of Baghdad cityscapes and of his comrades at arms swimming at the pool trying to escape 110-degree heat. “None of us will ever be the same in his absence” lifelong friend Jose Pena said. “Remember Hernando as I do: funny caring and most of all full of joy.” He is survived by his wife Liliana and three daughters Marlene8 Alyssa 10 months born to a different mother and 5-month-old Gabriela.Operation Enduring Freedom