Paratrooper killed in Afghanistan

82nd Abn. Div. PAO

	Corma

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan — An 82nd Airborne Division paratrooper was killed in southern Afghanistan April 29.

First Lt. Salvatore Corma, a 24-year-old native of Pennsylvania was killed by an improvised explosive device during a dismounted operation in Zabul province. He was assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team.

“Sal was one of the most selfless and compassionate people I have ever met and that is the reason why he was respected by his men,” said 1st Lt. William L. Banks, fellow platoon leader. “He held his men and himself to a higher standard and was willing to place himself in harms’ way to keep his men safe.”

After attending the United States Military Academy at West Point, Corma was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the infantry in May 2008 and subsequently attended the Infantry Officer Basic Course, Basic Airborne School, and Ranger School at Fort Benning, Ga. Upon completion of his training, Corma reported to Fort Bragg in September 2009, and was assigned to the rear detachment of 1st Bn., 508th PIR. He joined Co. A, 1st Bn., 508th PIR in Afghanistan in October 2009.

“First Lieutenant Corma was a great officer and a great leader,” said Staff Sgt. Jon Walker in Co. A, 1st Bn., 508th PIR.

Corma’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Basic Parachutist’s Badge, and the Ranger Tab.

Corma is survived by his parents, Salvatore and Gertrude of Wenonah, N.J.
A memorial in his honor will be held in Afghanistan.