Soldier From Austin Killed In Kuwait

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Military Department on Friday identified the soldier from Austin who was killed in Kuwait in a non-combat incident.

Staff Sgt. Timothy Manchester, 34, was a non-commissioned officer with the 36th Infantry Division, Texas Army National Guard, headquartered in Austin. Manchester deployed with the 36th ID in September 2020, officials wrote in an email responding to Patch inquiries. Manchester was killed in a non-combat related incident while supporting Operation Spartan Shield at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, officials said.

“We are devastated by the loss of one of our own,” Maj. Gen. Tracy Norris, the Adjutant General for Texas, said in a prepared statement. “In this profession, we always know in the back of our mind that this is a possibility, but we hope it never comes to pass. The entire Texas Military Department sends our deepest condolences to Staff Sgt. Manchester’s family and loved ones he leaves behind. We are also keeping his fellow service members in our thoughts and prayers who are still overseas mourning the loss of their brother in arms.”

The statement continued: "The unit leadership will continue to provide support and assistance to his family during this difficult time."

Manchester joined the Texas Army National Guard in 2018 after serving in the U. S. Marine Corps, officials said. His awards include the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, officials added.

Photo of Staff Sgt. Timothy Manchester provided by the Texas Military Department.

No further details were disclosed. Officials said the incident is under investigation.