Lewis-McChord soldier killed in Afghanistan

SEATTLE (AP) - The Army says a 20-year-old soldier from Joint Base Lewis-McChord has died in Afghanistan.

Pfc. Michael R. Demarsico II, of North Adams, Mass., died Aug. 16 from wounds sustained after he encountered an enemy improvised explosive device.

He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

The base said Saturday that Demarsico joined the Army in February 2011. He deployed to Afghanistan for the first time with his brigade in December 2011.

His many awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal.