CW2 Balli: Troops remember life of one of their own

By Combined Task Force Dragoon Public AffairsJanuary 23, 2014

CW2 Edward Balli
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- International Security Assistance Force officials have released the name of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Edward Balli, a Soldier killed in an insurgent attack in southern Afghanistan, Jan. 20. He is survived by his wife, Kristie Balli, his stepdaughters, Momilani Morales, Desiare Abrera and stepson Michael Donios.

Balli, 42, whose home of record is Kapolei, Hawaii, was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2d Cavalry Regiment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Balli's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Afghanistan and Iraq Campaign Medals and Combat Action Badge.

His fellow Soldiers described Balli as an outstanding leader of Soldiers. He was a person with a kind heart and smile that aimed to please those who he worked for and with. He was a very motivated person who loved his job as an Unmanned Aerial System Operations Officer Platoon Leader, providing the eyes in the sky for those soldiers on the ground.

Balli would always give advice to his younger soldiers assisting them with personal and professional goals. He was an inspiration to all with whom he served; he lived his life to the fullest.

A memorial service will be held for Balli at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, Jan. 25 and at his home station of Rose Barracks, Vilseck, Germany, on a date yet to be determined.

The 2d Cavalry Regiment would like to send our deepest condolences to his family and we will truly miss our fallen Dragoon and the sacrifice he made for his country.