Memorial held for fallen EOD Airman

Published April 14, 2008
By 1st Lt. Lisa Spilinek
332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

BALAD AIR BASE, Iraq -- Airmen and Soldiers gathered here April 12 to say goodbye to their wingman and comrade, Tech. Sgt. Anthony Capra, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician, who died in support of combat operations April 9.

During his 107th combat mission, Sergeant Capra, who was an EOD team leader assigned to the 332nd Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron, was conducting post-blast analysis of a roadside bomb crater near Forward Operating Base Paliwoda. During his investigation, he discovered a second improvised explosive device only a few meters away; while attempting to render the second device safe, it detonated.

"Sergeant Capra exemplified all the characteristics that being an EOD operator demands. He thought quickly and clearly under pressure, he took charge of any situation, he had a keen eye for details, an astounding memory and courage without measure," said Capt. Robert Scott, 332 EOD Flight commander. "Tony loved the EOD mission and took great pride in defeating the enemy's most deadly weapon -- the improvised explosive device."

The memorial ceremony, which was held in Balad's Town Hall, was attended by hundreds of Airmen and Soldiers from the EOD community and his fellow Airmen at Balad. Many of the attendees traveled to Balad from nearby forward operating locations specifically to attend the memorial for their hero and friend.

"Everyone has their own definition and image of a hero -- firefighters, police officers, sports figures and movie stars are often identified as heroes. Some kids look at their parents as heroes, but to us, Tony is our hero, said Staff Sgt. Jason Kreider, a fellow EOD team chief, during the memorial ceremony. "A hero lets his actions speak louder than his words. A hero is an EOD tech making that long, lonely walk. Tech. Sgt. Tony Capra is a hero."

"Tony had a glow about his personality that could brighten any mood. His contagious smile and sense of humor were enjoyed by everyone in his company. He was always there to put a smile on your face," Sergeant Kreider said.

While the dangers of the EOD career field are numerous, Sergeant Capra's co-workers said he took them in stride.

"As a team leader and noncommissioned officer, Tony served as a tremendous role model. In a close-knit community [EOD] where reputation means everything, Sergeant Capra's was top-notch. His leadership abilities were noted by all," said Captain Scott. "Additionally, his expert technical knowledge was endless and we often referred to him as a 'walking EOD encyclopedia.' When one of us couldn't determine the type or origin of a piece of ordnance, we turned to Tony, who invariably would know the answer."

Sergeant Capra entered the Air Force in June 1997; his most recent assignment was with Detachment 63 at Indian Head Naval Ordnance Station, Md. The sergeant had volunteered for his six-month deployment to Balad, his fourth since November 2001.

Sergeant Capra was posthumously awarded a Bronze Star, first Oak Leaf Cluster, for his heroic actions during his deployment.

According to his medal citation, during his deployment, which began Nov. 10, Sergeant Capra's actions ensured the safety and freedom of movement for more than 41,000 coalition forces, multi-national contractors and local nationals. He contributed to the recovery and destruction of more than 24,000 pieces of ordnance weighing more than 26,000 pounds.

"As any person who has served with Tony can attest, he is the embodiment of what it means to be a warrior. Many images come to mind when I think about what a warrior is. I think of King Leonidas standing before the Spartans. I think of William Wallace leading his Scottish forces into battle. I think of George Washington crossing the Delaware. Each of them standing tall, head raised, leading their troops from the front," Sergeant Krieder said. "I think of the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice to give us the freedom we cherish so deeply. I think of Tony, a true warrior, a true hero."

Sergeant Capra was known as being a competent leader who made sure his fellow Airmen were prepared for the numerous dangers they would face on missions.

"He relished being tasked with difficult operations, and rose to the challenge of every mission with vibrant enthusiasm," Captain Scott said. "When it was determined that we needed to mount M240 machine guns on our armored vehicles, it was Tony who ran all the Airmen through live-fire machine gun training, and ensured they had the skills necessary to operate in a hostile combat environment."

As a husband and father of five children, Sergeant Capra placed a lot of importance on his family.

"Growing up as the oldest of twelve in a military family, Sergeant Capra was a born leader," said Captain Scott. "As the oldest, the personal skills he cultivated by acting as mediator, guardian, counselor and friend no doubt contributed to his prowess as a leader and mentor.

"Sergeant Capra will be deeply missed as a beloved son, loving husband, and terrific father, and although they will grow up without him, Tony has left a legacy of heroism and service that his children can be proud of," the captain continued.

His EOD brethren will miss the sergeant as well.

"He touched us all and left a part of him with us all. He is and will always be a great part of our EOD family. The time we spent together holds a special place in all of our hearts," Sergeant Krieder said.