Link:
MERRIMACK, N.H. -- A decorated member of the New Hampshire Air National Guard killed himself at his home Wednesday, just a day after returning from a six-month tour of duty in Iraq.
Tech. Sgt. Dave Guindon, 48, of Merrimack, was a member of the 157th Air Refueling Wing based in Newington. In Iraq, he and four other members of the unit provided security to Army convoys. They returned Tuesday.
The state medical examiner's office told The Telegraph of Nashua that Guindon died Wednesday afternoon after shooting himself in the head. Air Force officials were investigating the death.
Guard officials praised Guindon's service, saying his mission marked the first time Air National Guard members from New Hampshire participated in Army combat missions.
Last month Guindon and his team were awarded Army combat honors after carrying out more than 100 missions.
"Dave was an outstanding airman and a good friend to many in our wing family," said Col. Richard Martell, the unit's commander. "He continually demonstrated a willingness to embrace new challenges and always performed to the best of his abilities. We are all deeply saddened by his sudden death. Our hearts and prayers are with his wife and daughter during this very difficult time. We have lost a good man and a true patriot."
Guindon joined the unit's logistics readiness squadron in 1997 after having served 23 years in the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Air Force Reserve and New Hampshire Army National Guard.
"Trained by the Air Force as a vehicle operator, he was called upon to perform an Army combat mission in Iraq," said Maj. Chris Hurley, the squadron's commander. "In the face of these extraordinary circumstances, Dave displayed the courage and dedication of a true professional. His actions are a testament to his character and his love for his country."
What on earth is happening to these people over there?
UPDATE: Richard Cranium at the All Spin Zone has more.
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