RALEIGH, N.C. — A North Carolina soldier died in Afghanistan this week, according to the Department of Defense.
Sgt. James Allen Slape, 23, of Morehead City, was killed on Thursday by an improvised explosive device (IED). He was promoted to the rank of sergeant after his death.
Sgt. Slape was assigned to N.C. Army National Guard's 60th Troop Command, 430th Explosive Ordnance Company, based in Washington, N.C.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of Sgt. James Slape losing his life while serving our country,’ said Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk, Adjutant General of the North Carolina National Guard.
Sgt. Slape’s unit deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel and Resolute Support in April 2018.
“We honor his courage, his selfless service and we extend our deepest sympathy to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers as we hold them firmly in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time," said Maj. Gen. Lusk.
Sgt. Slape is the 26th North Carolina Army National Guard Soldier to be killed in action since 9/11.
"On behalf of the people of North Carolina, I honor the service and sacrifice of Sgt. James Slape and offer our deepest sympathy to his loved ones and his fellow soldiers," said Gov. Roy Cooper.
Sgt. Slape's unit is scheduled to return to the U.S. in the spring of 2019.
