Street dedication honors fallen EOD Airman

  • Published
  • By Chrissy Cuttita
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Capra Loop not only adds a new roadway leading to Eglin's new Explosive Ordnance Facility, it honors the service of a fallen Airman who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Located off Nomad Way, the street was named for Tech Sgt. Anthony Capra, an explosive ordinance disposal technician who was killed in action April 9, 2008, near Golden Hills, Iraq, of wounds suffered when he encountered an improvised explosive device. Team Eglin still remembers their brother-in-arms and Bronze Star recipient and showed their respect at the ceremony May 1.

"There are roads all over Eglin named after warriors, but it is what you take away from it that's important," said Col. Dennis Yates, 96th Civil Engineer Group commander, who reminisced on times Sergeant Capra impressed leadership here. "It is a simple reminder of a full life."

Sergeant Capra was assigned to Det. 63 at Indian Head Naval Ordnance Station, Md., during the deployment that ended in self sacrifice for his nation. He volunteered for the last six-month deployment, marking his fourth venture into the area of responsibilities and his second consecutive tour of duty, supporting the Army's 101st Airborne Air Assault Division.

"Tony was first to volunteer for all deployments. He charged hard and it was tough to keep up with him," said Master Sgt. Robert Walker, EOD flight superintendant. "Anyone who knows him knows he gave his all."

For that reason the approval process and registration into historical records took less than four months. Heroism was obvious just by looking at the amount of decorations Sergeant Capra received.

His long list of awards include; the Purple Heart, Bronze Star (one oak leaf cluster added posthumously), Air Force Commendation Medal (one oak leaf cluster), Air Force Achievement Medal (two oak leaf clusters), Air Force Combat Action Medal, Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (with Valor device and two oak leaf clusters), Air Force Good Conduct medal (one oak leaf cluster), National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the Iraqi Campaign Medal.

Courage was the one word speakers used to describe Sergeant Capra. He was described as having a sharp mind, constant smile and dedicated soul by Colonel Yates. Additionally, Sergeant Walker said his fallen comrade was known for family values and treating co-workers like as if they were a brother.

"I'm extremely proud of what my son stands for and it is reflecting in the uniformed service members here today," said Anthony Capra who came to the ceremony with his wife and daughter-in-law.

Sergeant Capra entered the Air Force June 4, 1997, shortly after his 20th birthday, and is survived by his wife, Angie, and their five children.

Mr. Capra said the road is a physical reminder of his son's legacy for his children.