Ray, Adam James
Male
Verified U.S. Army Sergeant Adam James Ray, 23, of Louisville, Kentucky, died on February 9, 2010, from hostile action at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan.
Their Story
Adam James Ray grew up in Louisville, Kentucky, and enlisted in the United States Army. He served as a sergeant with Company C, 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, part of the 5th Stryker Brigade Combat Team based at Fort Lewis, Washington. He was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
On February 9, 2010, Sergeant Ray was killed by enemy action at Camp Bastion, a major British-run airfield and military base in Helmand Province. The Department of Defense announced his death the following day. According to reports, he was killed by an improvised explosive device while on a dismounted patrol outside the base's perimeter.
Ray's death occurred during a period of intense fighting in Helmand Province. In early 2010, U.S. and allied forces launched Operation Moshtarak, a major offensive to clear Taliban strongholds in the region, including around Marjah. The operation involved thousands of troops and resulted in significant casualties on all sides.
The Department of Defense officially notified Ray's next of kin. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star medals. His remains were returned to the United States, and he was buried in his home state of Kentucky.
Sergeant Ray is remembered on memorials at Fort Lewis and by veterans' groups. His name is inscribed on the Kentucky Veterans Memorial and is included in the online registry of fallen service members maintained by the Department of Defense.
Explore Further
Adam James Ray 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.
