Pena, Paul Wenceslaus

Paul Wenceslaus Pena was born in San Marcos, Texas. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2005, commissioning as a second lieutenant in the infantry. He was assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Captain Pena was killed on January 19, 2010, during combat operations in the Kuhak Mountain area of Afghanistan's Zabul province. According to U.S. military reports, his unit was conducting a dismounted patrol when it came under enemy small arms fire. Pena was fatally wounded in the engagement.

His death occurred during Operation Enduring Freedom, the U.S.-led military campaign in Afghanistan that began in October 2001. In early 2010, U.S. and NATO forces were engaged in intense counterinsurgency operations, particularly in the country's southern and eastern provinces like Zabul, to disrupt Taliban networks.

Captain Pena's body was returned to the United States. A memorial service was held for him at Fort Bragg. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Meritorious Service Medal.

Paul Pena is remembered by his unit and classmates as a dedicated leader. In 2010, the physical fitness field at his battalion's headquarters was named 'Pena Field' in his honor. He is survived by his wife, parents, and siblings.

Captain Pena was killed during Operation Enduring Freedom (2001–2014). The conflict concluded in December 2014. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.

Among those documented in the same conflict: Andrews, Evander Earl, Edmunds, Jonn Joseph, Stonesifer, Kristofor Tif, Davis, Bryant Leroy.

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