New Port Richey Soldier Killed During Training At Fort Bragg

NEW PORT RICHEY, FL — An enlisted Army sergeant from New Port Richey was killed during a training accident at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on Feb. 19, according to a news release issued by the 18th Airborne Corps Friday.

Sgt. Joseph Thomas Zygarowski, 24, was a mechanic assigned to the 10th Transportation Battalion, 7th Transportation Brigade, based out of Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Joseph Zygarowski,” Col. Samuel Miller, commander of the 7th Transportation Brigade, said. “He was an exceptional soldier as part of our Resolute Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this tragic time.”

"Sgt. Zygarowski was a model soldier, non-commissioned officer and leader. His presence and expertise will be deeply missed by everyone in the team,” said Capt. Jonah Crews, commander of the 149th Seaport Operations Company.

Zygarowski lived in the Woodridge Estates neighborhood in New Port Richey before he enlisted in the Army in 2018. He attended basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, followed by advanced training at Fort Lee, Virginia.

Zygarowski served three years with the 101st Airborne Division before being assigned to the 7th Transportation Brigade.

The 18th Airborne Corps did not elaborate on why it took two months to release the notice of his death.

In his brief time in the Army, Zygarowski received the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal with an oak leaf cluster, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terror Ribbon and the Army Service Ribbon.

He will be awarded the Meritorious Service Medal posthumously.