Soldier From Las Cruces Killed In Afghanistan

A soldier from Las Cruces has been killed in Afghanistan.  The Department of Defense said Staff Sgt. Israel P. Nuanes died of wounds sustained during an enemy attack with an improvised explosive device.  Officials announced the 38-year-old soldier's death Wednesday. The attack occurred in the Kandahar province of Afghanistan.

Nuanes was assigned to the 741st Ordnance Company at Fort Bliss, Texas.

Congressman Steve Pearce says in a statement Nuanes' dedication to preserving liberty will long be remembered in New Mexico and the U.S.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.