Coumas, Kyle Andrew
Male
Verified U.S. Army Specialist Kyle Andrew Coumas, 22, of Lockford, California, was killed by an improvised explosive device on October 21, 2009, in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
Their Story
Kyle Andrew Coumas was a 22-year-old soldier from Lockford, California. He served as a specialist with Company A, 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, part of the 5th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, based at Fort Lewis, Washington. His unit deployed to Afghanistan in July 2009.
On October 21, 2009, Specialist Coumas was on a dismounted patrol in the Kandahar province of southern Afghanistan. He was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near him. The attack occurred during a period of intense operations by his brigade in the region.
Coumas died during Operation Enduring Freedom, the U.S.-led military campaign in Afghanistan that began in October 2001. His unit, the 5th Stryker Brigade, was among the first major U.S. reinforcements sent to the country's south that year as part of a strategy to counter a resurgent Taliban.
His death was reported by the Department of Defense and noted in local and national news. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and other commendations. His body was returned to California for burial.
Specialist Coumas is remembered on memorials at Fort Lewis (now Joint Base Lewis-McChord) and in his hometown. His name is inscribed on the Afghanistan War Memorial at the California State Capitol.
Explore Further
Kyle Coumas was killed during Operation Enduring Freedom (2001–2014). The conflict concluded in December 2014. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.
Among those documented in the same conflict: Andrews, Evander Earl, Edmunds, Jonn Joseph, Stonesifer, Kristofor Tif, Davis, Bryant Leroy.
