Granby Soldier Killed in Afghanistan

North Granby resident Army Specialist Richard Charlton Emmons III was killed in action in Afghanistan Tuesday, according to a press release from Governor Dannel P. Malloy. The governor has directed state flags to be flown at half staff in his honor.

 “Our prayers go out to the family and friends of Specialist Emmons at this devastating time,” said Governor Malloy. “We will not forget that Specialist Emmons, like too many of our men and women in uniform, gave his life for the cause of freedom and in service to this country.  Our thoughts are with his unit still in Afghanistan, and hope they, and the rest of our troops overseas, return home safely.”

Spc. Emmons, 22, was the driver on a mounted patrol in Logar Province, Afghanistan when his vehicle was hit by a rocket propelled grenade.  He died at a military hospital of shrapnel injuries sustained in the attack.  Spc. Emmons enlisted in 2009 and was a member of the 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry, 4th Brigade Combat Team,  10th Mountain Division out of Fort Polk, Louisiana.

Flags will fly at half-staff until burial, arrangements of which are forthcoming.