Name: Army Spc. Pernell J. Herrera Age: 33 From: Espanola, NM Assigned to 1st Battalion, 171st Aviation Regiment, New Mexico National Guard, Santa Fe, N.M. Incident: Army Spc. Pernell J. Herrera died Dec. 31 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, after suffering a heart attack during PT.
Report: N.M. guardsman dies during PT workout
Staff and wire reports
A New Mexico Army National Guard soldier based in Afghanistan has died of an apparent heart attack.
Spc. Pernell J. Herrera, 33, of Espanola, N.M., died Dec. 31 in Helmand province of injuries suffered in a non-combat incident, the Defense Department announced.
The Associated Press reported Herrera died while performing physical fitness training.
He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 171st Aviation Regiment, Santa Fe, N.M.
A news release says Herrera enlisted in the New Mexico National Guard in May 2006 and served honorably over the last 5 1/2 years.
No additional information was available.
Died: December 31, 2011
Prayers & Condolences For: Pernell J. Herrera BY Anonymous on Jan 11, 2012
You were an amazing man with a heart of gold. I dont think I will ever meet anyone as wonderful as you. I never saw you turn your back on anyone and you even helped those you didnt even know. That's what I loved about you. I will always miss you and there will not be a day that will go by that I will not think about you. We had a bond that no matter what could not be seperated no matter how mad we got at one another at times. I love you Pern and until we meet again I know you will still be watching over me and my kids that love you like a dad! Miss you my dear friend thank you for everything you did at home and serving our Country you will forever and always be my hero!
Prayers & Condolences For: Pernell J. Herrera BY John on Jan 09, 2012
May the grace of God, the love of Jesus, and the peace of the Holy Spirit be with you and your family forever.