Christopher N. Gonzalez dies 'of wounds suffered when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using an IED and small arms fire'

PHOENIX -- A soldier from the Navajo Nation has died serving in Iraq.

The family of Army Sergeant Christopher Gonzalez says he died yesterday, though the Department of Defense has not confirmed or released details of his death.

Navajo Nation Council delegate Leonard Chee said in a statement the entire Navajo community is in shock.

According to Chee, Gonzalez was carrying out his second tour of duty in Iraq and left behind a wife and child.

Funeral services are pending.

Survivors include his mother, Judy Nez of Birdsprings, Arizona. On Tuesday, Navajo Nation President Joe Shirley issued a proclamation in honor and in recognition of Sergeant Gonzalez.

Shirley also ordered flags on the Navajo Nation flown at half-staff from May 16th to May 20th in honor of Gonzalez.

From KTVK 3