Fort Riley has informed KMAN that a 1st Infantry Division soldier with the 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, died Thursday in Al Asad Airbase, Iraq, of non-combat-related injuries.
The soldier is identified as Sgt. Joseph F. Stifter, 30, of Glendale, Cali. He was a field artillery cannon crewmember.
“Sgt. Stifter was an exceptional soldier and leader in our battalion,” said Col. Miles Brown, commander of the 2nd ABCT. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a member of the ‘Dagger’ family. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Dagger brigade go to his family and friends during this difficult time. His memory will forever remain with those who served with him.”
Stifter joined the Army in May 2011. He arrived at Fort Riley in January
2012 and deployed with his unit in October to Iraq in support of Operation
Inherent Resolve.
Stifter’s awards and decorations include three Army Commendation Medals, the
Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Combat
Action Badge.
Stifter is survived by his wife, daughter, mother and father.
