Steven R. Elrod, 20

Steven Elrod

Spc. Steven R. Elrod, 20, a former resident of Mountain Home, died Sept. 10 due to wounds sustained when the truck he was travelling rolled over near Baghdad, Iraq.

Elrod was one of seven soldiers, along with two detainees, who were killed in the accident. The soldiers were riding in an armored cargo truck that plunged 50 feet off a highway overpass. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.

Elrod was a Cavalry Scout, with 1st Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division.

Elrod joined the Army in February 2006. He completed Infantryman One Station Unit Training in June 2006 and the Basic Airborne Course in July 2006, at Fort Benning, Ga. He was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division in July 2006 and was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 73rd CAV, as a scout.

After finishing his service, Elrod had aspirations in pursuing marine biology or sports journalism. He also wanted to try out for the Boise State University's basketball team.

Elrod's awards and decorations included, Bronze Star medal, Army Commendation medal, Army Commendation medal, National Defense Service medal, Iraq Campaign medal, Global War on Terrorism Service medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman's Badge and Parachutist's Badge.

Elrod is survived by his mother, Karen Morin, step-father Michael Morin, sister Kristen Elrod, brother Scott Morin all of Hope Mills, N.C., His father Denny Elrod, step-mother Susan Elrod, step-brothers Jack and Daniel, grandmother Yolanda Harris, grandfather Gene Brimmage, grandmother Mary Morin, grandfather Robert Morin.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Sept. 22, at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St. in Fayetteville, N.C.