Update: Airman From El Paso Died Of Gunshot Wound In Afghanistan

The Department of Defense announced Friday the death of an airman who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Military officials said Senior Airman Daniel R. Sanchez, 23, of El Paso died Sept.16 while conducting combat operations in Oruzgan province, Afghanistan.

He was wounded by enemy fire and subsequently died of a gunshot wound, military officials said.

“This terrible loss is evidence of the ultimate sacrifice our men in Air Force Special Operations Command make to protect our country and our way of life,” said Maj. Chris Larkin, 23rd STS Commander.

“Danny was a fine Airman and a valuable member of our close community, and he will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathies go out to the Sanchez family,” Larkin said.

According to authorities he was assigned to the 23rd Special Tactics Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Fla.

The 23rd STS will hold a memorial service honoring Airman Sanchez next week, the date and time has not yet been determined.

Sanchez was a graduate of Montwood High School.