Fort Lewis soldier killed in Iraq

THE OLYMPIAN | • Published May 10, 2008

Fort Lewis soldier Pfc. Aaron J. Ward, 19, of San Jacinto, Calif., died Tuesday in the Iraq war, the Department of Defense said today.

Ward was killed when his unit was engaged by small arms fire during a cordon and search operation in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.

He was assigned to the 107th Military Police Company, which is part of the 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade. The company deployed to Iraq in May, 2007.

According to unit records, Ward enlisted April 17, 2007, at San Diego. He reported to Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., for initial entry training on July 18, 2007. Upon graduation, he reported to Fort Lewis on Jan. 1, 2008, where he was assigned to the 170th Military Police Co.

His military and civilian education includes the Military Occupational Specialty 31B: Military Police Officer Qualification Course (2007), and a high school diploma (2007).

His awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon. Ward was posthumously promoted to his present rank from his previously held rank of specialist.