Michigan Soldier Killed In Afghanistan
The fighting in Afghanistan claims the life of another young soldier from Michigan -- the second in a week.
The Defense Department says 20-year-old Specialist Joseph Prentler died Monday after insurgents attacked his military vehicle with a bomb.
Prentler decided when he was 8 years old that he wanted to serve in the Army, just like his grandfather, family members said Tuesday. "Going from when you're 8 and making that decision and sticking with it, that's really honorable,'' Prentler's cousin, Sonya Jakeway, told The Daily News of Greenville. "It was always an interest for him.''
Prentler is from Fenwick, about 32 miles northeast of Grand Rapids. He attended Carson City-Crystal High School and graduated in 2008. He is survived by his parents, Joseph and Tammy Prentler, and a 13-year-old brother, Dakota.
Tammy Prentler told The Grand Rapids Press that many in the small community offered condolences. "He's just an all-around sweet person, just concerned about everybody and anybody,'' Tammy Prentler said. "He's just a good kid, friendly. He tried to make everybody laugh. Everybody loved him.''
Prentler was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment based in Vilseck, Germany.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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