Military: RI soldier died after saving Afghan girl

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29-year-old Sgt. Dennis Weichel Jr.

Updated: Thursday, 29 Mar 2012, 8:34 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 29 Mar 2012, 8:34 AM EDT

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Military officials say a Rhode Island National Guard member struck and killed by an armored vehicle in Afghanistan last week had moved an Afghan girl to safety shortly before the accident.

The National Guard on Wednesday released details of the March 22 accident that killed 29-year-old Sgt. Dennis Weichel Jr. of Providence and called him a hero.

Officials say Weichel's unit was in Laghman province when they encountered several Afghan children in the path of their convoy. They say Weichel saw a girl trying to retrieve an item under the armored vehicle and moved her to safety, then was struck.

Visiting hours are set for 4 p.m. Sunday at Olson & Parent Funeral Home in Providence. He will be buried at the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery in Exeter.

Military: RI soldier died after saving Afghan girl

29-year-old Sgt. Dennis Weichel Jr.

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