2nd Lt. Michael R. Parros, 21, of Walnut Creek, Calif., was in his first day of U.S. Army Ranger School on July 25, when he fell ill and was transported for medical treatment.

"This is a tragic loss," said Lt. Col. Matthew Weber, Commander of the 2nd Battalion, 11th Infantry Regiment. "While 2nd Lt. Parros was only with us for a short time, he showed so much potential and was the epitome of the kind of Soldier you want to serve with. We are truly saddened to lose a member of our Army family." Parros, who reported to Fort Benning for training on June 27, graduated from the U.S. Army Military Academy in May, as an Infantry Officer. He was assigned to the 199th Infantry Brigade and planned to attend the Infantry Basic Officer Leader Course after completing Ranger School. Parros was an accomplished athlete, having played football, hockey and soccer while at West Point. He also was a member of the Cultural Affairs Club. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Parros family and friends during this exceptionally challenging time," Weber said.

Proceeds from the 2LT Michael R. Parros bracelet will be donated to the 2LT Michael Parros Memorial Fund.