Eglin Airman killed in Iraq Published April 15, 2008 By Lois Walsh 96th Air Base Wing Public Affairs EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Department of Defense announced today the death of an Airman who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Tech. Sgt Anthony L. Capra, 31, of Hanford, Calif., died April 9 near Golden Hills, Iraq, of wounds suffered when he encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to Detachment 63, 688 Armament Systems Squadron, Indian Head City, Md. Detachment 63 serves the Department of Defense Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) program as the AF approval authority for EOD-specific tools and equipment, as well as tactics, techniques, and procedures. The 688 Armament Systems Squadron, located here, provides acquisition services for a broad variety of combat support equipment, including EOD equipment. From February 2003 to September 2007, Sergeant Capra was assigned to the 96th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Flight here. He was awarded a Bronze Star in May 2006. "It's a huge hit to the Eglin EOD flight because we knew Tony personally," said Capt Shane Frith, EOD commander, "We won't be able to forget his character and the way he represented the EOD community. The impact is tremendous on the local troops here." Other releasable information: Air Force Specialty Code: 3E871; Explosive Ordnance Disposal Craftsman Date of Rank: June 1, 2006 Additional Decorations Air Force Commendation Medal (2) AF Achievement Medal (3)