FORT HOOD, Texas -- Soldiers, civilians and family members gathered to mourn the loss of Spc. Travis Penney at a memorial service held in his honor here, June 20.
Penney died May 26, 2012, from injuries sustained from a motorcycle accident in Belton, Texas.
Penney entered active duty Aug. 28, 2008, at Fort Benning, Ga., where he completed initial entry training and advanced individual training (AIT). He graduated AIT as an infantryman.
Upon completion of AIT, Penney was assigned to 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment at Fort Hood where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from January 2009 to January 2010. Penney later became a member of Company A., 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division. He deployed again to Iraq in support of Operation New Dawn from May 2011 to December 2011.
"Spc. Penney stood out as one of the most highly disciplined, motivated, and promising young Soldiers in the company," said Capt. Patrick Howlett, the commander of Company A. "Spc. Penney was a truly great Soldier, and above all else, a great friend to many, many people, and his loss will be felt by many."
"He was always that person you wanted to be around," said Spc. Anthony Johnson, who served with Penney in Company A.
"Travis, you were an inspiration to us all, along with motivation to finish strong, and I speak for everybody when I say you were one of the greatest and smartest friends we've ever had the privilege of knowing," continued Johnson. "You were much more than a friend, or brother-in-arms, you were family. We'll never forget you, Travis. Thanks for the memories."
Penney's military awards include the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon. Penney was also awarded the Combat Infantry Badge and the Master Driver Badge.
Penney is survived by his wife, Brittany LeAnn Kohutek; his mother, Laura (Jill) Penney; his uncle, Kelly Duncan; and his sister, Carrie Penney.
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