Local Soldier Dies in Basic Training Incident

A Suffield resident and Connecticut National Guard member died Friday while participating in basic training at Fort Benning, GA.

Pvt. Sammuel “Sam” M. Mercouriou, 18, was shot during a rifle range training exercise at the base, according to base officials. The shot was “apparently self-inflicted,” according to Fort Benning public affairs officer. Army officials reported that no other injuries resulted from the incident, which is currently under investigation.

Mercouriou, who attended school in the younger grades in East Windsor, was pronounced dead that afternoon after being transported to Martin Army Community Hospital, also located in Fort Benning, according to base officials.

Mercouriou, a 2011 Suffield High School graduate, enlisted in the Connecticut National Guard shortly after he graduated. Born in Middletown, Mercouriou went through the East Windsor public school system for much of his childhood before moving to Suffield.

had a strong attachment to writing and reading, with plans to obtain a teaching degree and an ultimate goal of becoming a writer.

Family and friends have begun to leave remembrances for Mercouriou on the Leete-Stevens Funeral Home’s online book of memories and memorial candle display. The messages frequently recall the strength of Mercouriou’s bonds with others and benefits of his friendship, his writing, his love of the English and Latin languages and the positive affect he had on those in his life.

A date and time for the memorial services and visitations has not been finalized, but a first visitation will occur at at 61 South Rd. in Enfield. The burial will take place at West Suffield Cemetery on Mountain Road, according to the funeral home.

Mercouriou was a member of the Army’s D Company, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 198th Infantry Brigade.