The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

"Sgt. 1st Class Forrest W. Robertson, 35, of Westmoreland, Kan., died Nov. 3, in Pul-E-Alam, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire. He was assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters troops, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, Fort Stewart, Ga" (source: Pentagon Press Release, dated October 4, 2013).

Unconfirmed reports suggest this was an "ambush style attack using RPG (Rocket Propelled Grenades) and small arms fire by Taliban insurgents bent on revenge for the killing of Taliban leader Hakimullah Mehsud in Pakistan 3 days earlier by U.S. drone attack.

His family resides in Hinesville, Ga, and his mother resides in Westmoreland, Kansas, according to the office of Senator Moran.

Sgt. Roberton is listed as a former Military Science Instructor with the Department of Military Science at Pittsburg State University (see attached photo).

For more information the media may contact the Fort Stewart public affairs office at 912-210-9375.

The following is a statement by Senator Moran:

"America is forever indebted to Sergeant First Class Forrest Robertson, whose service and sacrifice in defense of his country is immeasurable," Sen. Moran said.

"My deepest sympathies go out to his wife, children and family, and I ask all Kansans to join me in remembering his family and friends in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time" (source: http://www.moran.senate.gov).