Keith A. Callahan dies of injuries from I.E.D.

FORT BRAGG - An 82nd Airborne paratrooper died from wounds suffered when he was on patrol and a roadside bomb exploded south of Baghdad, the Defense Department said late Thursday.

Sgt. 1st Class Keith A. Callahan, 31, a platoon sergeant with 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment was from McClure, Pa.

"Keith Callahan's death is a tragic loss to our task force, and our thoughts and prayers go" to his family, said Lt. Col. Ross E. Davidson, 1st Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 82nd Airborne.

"At the time of his death his sole concern was for the welfare of his men, as he had deliberately posted himself at a critical road crossing point to act as an additional security element to ensure the security of the platoon," Davidson said.

His widow, Dody Callahan, said in a statement, "Keith was a loving husband, father, son, son-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, friend, and soldier. Keith was a sports enthusiast and a Bragg two-time boxing champion, earning the nickname Bam-Bam Callahan.

"His paramount concern was always his children and family, to include his military family. Keith loved his soldiers and his dedication to duty lasted to the end shown by the fact that he gave his life to protect his soldiers. He would now want his soldiers to bravely forge ahead in this mission and continue his legacy.

"He would also want the American citizens to support his wife, children, and fellow soldiers at this most difficult time. What Keith would not tell you is that he is a hero; but ... he is a true American hero and that is how our family wishes that he be remembered."

Callahan joined the Army in February 1996. He reported to the 82nd Airborne Division in October 2001 and was assigned as a fire team leader in 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment.

Callahan had three previous deployments in Iraq beginning in March 2003.

In addition to his wife, Callahan is survived by sons Devin and Brady of Fayetteville; daughter Brooke of Fayetteville, and stepson Tyler of Fayetteville. A memorial service will be held for him in Iraq.

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