Hernandez, Joseph Michael

Joseph Michael Hernandez was born in Hammond, Indiana, a city in the northwestern part of the state. He enlisted in the United States Army and was assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, which was based at the Hohenfels Training Area in Germany. The battalion was part of the 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

On January 9, 2009, Hernandez was at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Lagman in Zabul Province, southern Afghanistan. The base came under indirect fire from insurgent forces, a common tactic involving mortars or rockets. Hernandez was reportedly killed by the incoming fire. Another soldier, Sergeant Joshua L. Rath, 22, of Decatur, Alabama, died in the same attack.

The attack occurred during Operation Enduring Freedom, the U.S.-led military campaign in Afghanistan that began in October 2001. By early 2009, the conflict was in its eighth year, with a focus on counter-insurgency operations against Taliban and other militant groups. Zabul Province was a known transit and staging area for insurgent activity.

Hernandez's death was reported by the Department of Defense. His body was returned to the United States. A memorial service was held for him and Sergeant Rath at their home base in Germany on January 16, 2009, according to an Army press release.

Corporal Hernandez was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart. His name is inscribed on the Indiana Fallen Heroes memorial. He is remembered by his family, fellow soldiers, and his hometown community.

Joseph Hernandez 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.

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