Sheldon grad killed by mortar fire in Iraq | News

The Department of Defense issued a press release Tuesday afternoon on the death of Sheldon High School graduate Erin McLyman in Iraq.

Lyman died Saturday, March 13, in Balad, Iraq.

Here is the complete press release:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Joint Base Lewis-McChord Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Erin L. McLyman, 26, of Federal Way, Wash., died March 13 in Balad, Iraq, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked her base with mortar fire. She was assigned to the 296th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.

According to unit records, McLyman had prior military experience with the U.S. Air Force before she enlisted in the U.S. Army. Her current term of military service began Dec. 31, 2008, when she reported to Fort Jackson, South Carolina. She reported to Fort Lewis (now Joint-Base Lewis McChord) on April 6, 2009, where she was assigned to the 296th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, as a wheeled vehicle mechanic. The brigade deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in August 2009. This was her first deployment with the unit.

McLyman's civilian and military education includes a high school diploma (2001) and training in her military occupational specialty.

Her awards and decorations include the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Air Force Training Ribbon.

On behalf of the entire Joint Base Lewis-McChord military and civilian community, we extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Pvt. McLyman.

A photo of this Soldier is not available from the JBLM Public Affairs Office at this time.

Do you have a photo of Erin McLyman in uniform? Contact KVAL News by e-mail at kvalnews@kval.com or call (541) 685-KVAL (5825).