Article Photos

A soldier from Cape Coral who died Sunday in Iraq was serving his first deployment overseas.

Pfc. Derrick D. Gwaltney, 21, died south of Basra, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident, according to information released Tuesday. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation, a standard procedure for non-combat related deaths.

Gwaltney was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 377th Field Artillery Regiment, 17th Fires Brigade in Fort Lewis, Wash.

According to unit records, he enlisted July 22, 2008, in Tampa and reported to Fort Jackson, S.C., for basic training. On Oct. 6, 2008, he reported to Fort Lee, Virgina, for Advanced Individual Training in Military Occupational Specialty 92G: Food Service Specialist.

Gwaltney reported to Fort Lewis on Jan. 3 and was assigned to the 17th Fires Brigade. The brigade deployed to Iraq in July. This was his first deployment.

Gwaltney's civilian and military education includes a General Equivalency Diploma in 2001 and the 92G: Food Service Specialist Qualification Course in 2009.

His awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

"On behalf of the entire Fort Lewis military and civilian community, we extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends Pfc. Gwaltney," base officials said in a prepared statement.

Source: Fort Lewis Department of Public Affairs