Release # 05-001
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE
82nd AIRBORNE DIVISION
Fort Bragg, NC  28310-5000
Phone (910) 432-0661/0662 
Fax (910) 432-5205  

May 7, 2008   
Release #05-001     
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
82nd Airborne Division Paratrooper dies

FORT BRAGG, N.C. — An 82nd Airborne Division Paratrooper died of injuries sustained from a gunshot wound at a Fayetteville residence early Sunday morning. 

The incident is under investigation by military and civilian authorities.

Spc. Tavis Tsinigine, 23, of Phoenix, Arizona was a UH-60 Crewchief with C Company, 2nd Bn., 82nd  Aviation Regiment (2-82nd Avn. Reg.), 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB), 82nd Abn. Div.

“Our Troopers are our most important asset, and their safety is our primary concern. We’ve lost a good Trooper, and he will be sorely missed,” said Col. Paul W. Bricker, commander, 82nd CAB. “Our condolences go out to his family.”

Tsinigine joined the Army in May 2004 and completed UH-60 Helicopter Repairer Advanced Individual Training at Fort Eustis, Virginia in December 2004.  He completed the Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning, Georgia in 2004.

“Charlie Company will miss Spc. Tsinigine,” said Capt. Phil Ewell, executive officer, Co. C, 2-82nd Avn. Reg. “He was personable, yet professional and a leader among his peers.  Those who served with him remember his positive attitude and dedication to accomplishing the mission.”

Tsinigine deployed with the 82nd CAB to Afghanistan from January 2007 to January 2008.

Tsinigine’s awards and decorations include the Air Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, and the Parachutist’s Badge.

Tsinigine is survived by his mother, Doreen Molinar, of Phoenix, Arizona.

A unit memorial service will be held May 8.