Family remembers Chandler soldier who died in extremist attack in Somalia
CHANDLER, Ariz. (KSAZ) - The family of a Chandler soldier who was killed while serving the military in Somalis is speaking out.
The soldier, identified as 26-year-old Staff Sgt. Alexander Conrad, was killed in an extremist attack. Conrad came from family that has served the country with distinction.
"Alex joined the Army. It is family tradition," said Alex's brother, Jacob Conrad. "Our grandfathers served in the Army. My father did, then Alex and me and my cousin joined the Army. The Army is what my family does. We are happy to do it and happy the Army is there."
Alex grew up in Chandler.
"Growing up, we had a lot of fun," said Jacob. "We did a lot to piss my family off. Played baseball, sports, mom and dad running us around. He loved motorcycle riding, snowboarding, drinking a craft beer, Universal Studios and furniture shopping with my mom."
Staff Sgt. Conrad was serving in Somalia, and had completed two tours in Afghanistan.
"He loved the Army," said Jacob. "Loved going to the ranges, the field training, airborne school, how he told me I need to go airborne and I said no way. He was braver than me and loved doing roller coasters, and all sorts of outdoor activities."
Alex's family says the Army is doing a great job helping them at this tragic time. Alex was assigned to 3rd Special Forces Group out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He died on June 8, of injuries sustained from enemy indirect fire. That incident is currently under investigation by the Army.