MEAWW.COM / NEWS / HUMAN INTEREST

Who was Michael Clark? Soldier killed by lightning at Fort Gordon was a 22-year veteran

A lightning strike on Wednesday, July 20, killed Clark and left nine other soldiers with injuries

FORT GORDON, GEORGIA: The soldier killed by a lightning strike at a Georgia Army base on Wednesday, July 20 has been identified as a 22-year Army and reserves veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan four times. According to Fort Gordon Range Control officials, a bolt of lightning struck the base's training area at around 11 am. 

Sgt 1st Class Michael Clark, 41, was killed by lightning during a training exercise at Fort Gordon on Wednesday, July 20, according to the US Army Reserve. Clark, a reservist assigned to a medical team that performs emergency surgery in combat zones, was airlifted to the Dwight D Eisenhower Army Medical Center but died. According to the Army Reserve, nine other soldiers were hospitalized as a result of the lightning strike. "It is with great sadness that we confirm that on July 20th, one of our Soldiers was killed & nine others sustained injuries associated with a lightning strike at Training Area 26 on Fort Gordon, GA, during a training exercise", US Army Reserve wrote on Twitter. 

ALSO READ

Donations pour in for ‘hero’ Nick Bostic who rescued five people from house fire in Indiana

THE BIG COJONE! Internet gobsmacked over rumors Cristiano Ronaldo uses Botox on his genitals

Who was Michael Clark?

Clark, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was assigned to the 3rd Medical Command's 933rd Forward Resuscitative Surgical Company. Clark has received several honors during his year of service, including the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal 4th Award, Army Achievement Medal 3rd Award, Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, and many more.

“The 933rd FRSD family is devastated by the loss of our brother, Sgt. 1st Class Michael Clark. Sgt. 1st Clark was a loving husband, father, and Patriot who deeply loved our country. His leadership, knowledge, experience, and love for his fellow Soldiers were immeasurable", Commander Maj Stephen W Rhinehart said. "Sgt 1st Clark’s smile and laughter were infectious and always brought joy to everyone around him. Words will never be able to describe how much he will be missed, but his influence on our unit and Soldiers will remain forever. This especially hurts because not only was Sgt. 1st Clark one of my Soldiers, but he was my friend and brother. Our prayers are with his family", he added in a press release. 

Lt Gen Jody Daniels, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General of US Army Reserve Command, said, “We extend our sincere sympathies to Sgt.1st Class Clark’s unit and his family during this difficult time. People are our most important asset. Sgt. 1st Class Clark was a valuable member of our Army Reserve team and we are all deeply saddened by his loss.”

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of our brother, Sergeant First Class Michael Clark. Michael was well known throughout the Army Medical and Special Forces communities for his Soldier skills and professional demeanor. His loss is being felt around the globe. The 3rd Medical Command Deployment Support sends its deepest sympathies to Sergeant First Class Clark’s wife, children, and loved ones. This is a difficult time and I send my love and unwavering support", said Major General Joe D Robinson.

Governor Brian Kemp tweeted, “Marty, the girls, and I are praying for the family of this soldier and for those hurt by this unfortunate lightning strike. As we hope for their recovery, we ask our fellow Georgians to join us in mourning the loss of their fellow servicemember”.

Representative Rick Allen also tweeted saying, "We are praying for those injured in the lightning strike at Fort Gordon yesterday. This is a heartbreaking story and our hearts are with the victims and their families."

According to the Army Reserve, one of the nine others — eight reservists and one soldier — has been treated and released from the hospital, while the remaining eight are still receiving treatment and are in "good condition".