Release # 08-008
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE
82nd AIRBORNE DIVISION
Fort Bragg, NC  28310-5000
Phone (910) 432-0661/0662 
Fax (910) 432-5205  

August 27, 2007   
Release #08-008    

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
82nd Airborne Division Paratrooper dies in Iraq

FORT BRAGG, N.C. — An 82nd Airborne Division Paratrooper died from injuries sustained when the enemy attacked his unit using  small arms fire and hand grenades in Samarra, Iraq, Sunday.

Sgt. Joshua L. Morley, 22, of Carthage, N.C. was a sniper, with 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachust Infantry regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Abn. Div.

“It was truly both an honor and a privilege to have served with Sergeant Joshua Morley,” said Capt. Carlos Morales, Morley’s company commander. “He was a fearless Paratrooper who epitomized the highest forms of bravery, dedication to duty, and selfless service on a daily basis.  Sergeant Morley was a dedicated NCO that was totally committed to his duties as a Sniper Team Leader and always represented the ideals which make our nation great.”

Morley enlisted the Army in January 2004 in Boise, Idaho. He completed Infantry One Station Unit Training and the Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning, Ga. in July 2004.

He arrived to the 82nd in July 2004 and was assigned to the 3rd Bn., 505th PIR as a rifleman.

“During the last 12 months, he risked his life while participating in hundreds of combat operations with his Sniper Team against insurgent forces within the city of Samarra.  His moral character, stalwart leadership, and aggressive spirit will always be remembered.  His sacrifice will never be forgotten,” added Morales. 

Morley’s  awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart Medal, the Army Good Conduct medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and the Parachutist’s Badge.

Morley is survived by his wife, Kendra Morley; his daughter Alexis Morley, both of Albertson, N.C.; his mother, Sara Morley, of Cary, N.C.; and his father, Joseph Morley, of Carthage, N.C.

The unit will hold a memorial service in Iraq.