FORT HOOD, Texas - "Today we remember the life of Sgt. Clinton Kunze and his light that touched each of us," said Capt. Louis-Philippe Hammond during a memorial service celebrating Kunze's life and service to the nation at Fort Hood, Aug. 22.
Hundreds of soldiers from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, "Black Jack," 1st Cavalry Division, and eight of Kunze's family attended the memorial to pay their last respects.
Kunze died, July 26, 2012.
Kunze enlisted in the Army, Nov. 12, 2002. He completed basic training and advanced individual training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., as a combat engineer. Kunze's duty stations included Fort Drum and Fort Hood.
Kunze was assigned to Company D., 2nd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, "Spartan," 2nd BCT.
Since arriving at Fort Hood in 2005, Kunze immediately made positive impressions within his unit.
"He was a dedicated Soldier who understood the brotherhood of our profession," said Lt. Col. Archie Herndon, commander of the 2nd BSTB. "The reality is Kunze was a lot of things to a lot of people."
"He was a warrior, leader and a soldier who always stood up for his team before himself," commented Hammond, commander of Company C, 2nd BSTB.
Likewise, Kunze focused on taking care of his daughter.
"He was a cheerful guy who loved spending time with his beautiful daughter," said Sgt. Juan Hernandez.
"His ultimate priority was always his family, his daughter, and despite adversity, stood calm and focused on her," stated Hammond.
"Kunze proved to be a true warrior," explained Herndon. "His efforts yielded more than medals; it yielded the respect and admiration of his soldiers."
Kunze's awards include: the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, three Army Achievement Medals, three Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal with three campaign stars, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Combat Action Badge.
Kunze is survived by his daughter, Mercedez; father and stepmother, Curtis and Modina Kunze; mother and stepfather, Lynda and Kenneth Sells; two brothers and three sisters.
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