On September 17, 2017 Specialist Robert L. Gagnon Jr. was traveling in Northwest Florida, westbound on Interstate 10, when he suffered a head on collision with another vehicle. Specialist Gagnon and the driver of the second vehicle were killed. Specialist Gagnon was born on May 13, 1992 in Exeter, New Hampshire and entered active duty military service into the United States Army on October 8, 2013.
Specialist Gagnon attended Basic Combat Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and Military Occupation Specialty Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He completed the United States Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, and was assigned to Group Support Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida on April 22, 2014 as a Motor Transport Operator (88M). Specialist Gagnon worked in the Special Forces Advanced Skills Company Maritime Operations Training Detachment (ASC MOT-D) as a Small Boat Maintenance Operator, where he maintained the fleet of Zodiac small craft and boat motors for the entire 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
Specialist Gagnon’s awards and decorations include the U.S. Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Parachutist Badge and Army Marksman Badge.
The Commander of 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Col. Patrick T. Colloton, released the following statement, “It was an honor having Robert serve within the ranks of 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne). He was a part of our family and will not be forgotten. Our focus now is to provide the best care and support possible to Specialist Gagnon's family and loved ones. I ask that you please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”
For additional information please contact the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) Public Affairs Office at (850) 885-7276.