KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- For our Fallen Warrior commemoration this week we remember Staff Sgt. Alex Viola, Company B 3rd Battalion 7th Special Forces Group engineer sergeant.
Native to Keller, Texas, Viola originally enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard in 2009 where he was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group at Camp Williams, Utah. During his time in the National Guard, Viola earned a degree in mechanical engineering from University of North Texas before joining the U.S. Navy with hopes of becoming a Navy SEAL.
Viola suffered an injury during SEAL “Hell Week” prompting him to leave the Navy. Viola then joined the Army as an engineer sergeant with the U.S. Army Special Forces.
In June 2011, Viola graduated from the Special Forces Qualification Course and was assigned to the 19th Special Forces Group.
In March 2013, Viola was mobilized on active duty and assigned to the 3rd Battalion 7th Special Forces Group in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. This was his first deployment. On Nov. 17, 2013, while on a dismounted patrol in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, Viola’s unit was attacked by an improvised explosive device. He died from wounds inflicted by the IED.
Viola is survived by his parents and sister.
Editor's note: The Fallen Warrior series highlights Fallen Warriors who exemplify our core values and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Take a moment to honor this week’s hero.