Paratrooper dies in Iraq

82nd Abn. Div. PAO

	Hopper

An 82nd Airborne Division para-trooper died Friday in Jisrdiyala, Iraq from injuries suffered in a vehicular accident.

Pfc. Lukas C. Hopper, an infantryman with Company D, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, died from wounds suffered during a roll over. The incident is under investigation.

Hopper joined the Army in January 2008. He completed Infantry One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning, Ga., and immediately went on to graduate from the Basic Airborne School, also at Fort Benning.

In May 2008, Hopper reported to the 82nd Abn. Div. and was assigned to 1st Bn., 505th PIR as an infantryman.

“Pfc. Hopper was an outstanding paratrooper. He was a dedicated professional who set the example for all to follow,” said Capt. Travis Stellfox, commander, Co. D, 1st Bn., 505th PIR. “His presence will be severely missed and my heartfelt condolences go out to his Family.”

Hopper is survived by his mother and father, Robin and Yancy Hopper, of Merced, Calif.

“Today the battalion lost a treasured and dedicated trooper with whom it was a privilege to serve along side,” said Lt. Col. Dave Bair, commander, 1st Bn., 505th PIR. “Pfc. Hopper’s great sense of humor, devotion to his fellow paratroopers and his dedication to mission accomplishment set him apart from his peers. He will truly be missed.”