Article Photos

Fact Box

''Private First Class May's service to our

nation will never be forgotten.''

Area residents are mourning the death of a former Cassadaga Job Corps Academy student who was killed Tuesday in a non-combat incident in Baghdad, Iraq.

The U.S. Department of Defense announced the Tuesday death of Pfc. Patrick W. May on Thursday of a non-combat injury while supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Details have not been released.

According to Julie Cupernall, media relations officer at Fort Drum, an investigation is ongoing and a standard part of procedure.

''Just like in the private sector, we can't comment on ongoing investigations because it might pollute the investigation,'' she said. ''But for every death that occurs, there is an investigation. So this one shouldn't be viewed as any more or less suspicious. It is standard procedure and done for the soldier and the soldier's family.''

May joined the military in June 2006, attending his basic training at Fort Jackson, S.C., where 50 percent of all soldiers entering the Army receive their training. Upon graduation, he went to Fort Huachuca, Ariz, where he received advanced training. May then moved on to Fort Drum, N.Y., where he trained to become an intelligence analyst.

He deployed to Iraq in July, assigned to the Division Special Troops Battalion, 10th Mountain Division.

May's mother lives in Sulpher Springs, Texas, and his father lives in Holland Patent, which is in central New York. Although May's family couldn't be located for comment, public figures shared their gratitude about his service and offered their condolences.

''The tragedies of war really hit home when it's someone from your own community,'' said Mayor Sam Teresi. '' I didn't know the young man personally, but he must truly be an outstanding human being if he's willing to put it all on the line for his country. Our hearts and thoughts and prayers go out to his family and all of the other servicemen and women serving overseas and their families at this time.''

Gov. David A. Paterson has directed that flags on State government buildings be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, Sept. 10, in honor of Pfc. May.

''On behalf of the citizens of New York I wish to extend our condolences to the family of Private First Class May, and to his fellow soldiers from the Army's 10th Mountain Division serving at home and overseas,'' said Gov. Paterson. ''Private First Class May's service to our nation will never be forgotten.''