US soldier killed during training exercise in Louisiana

US military officials say a 19-year-old soldier from Las Vegas, Nevada, has been killed during a training exercise at a base in Louisiana.

Pvt. Joshua D. Phillips, a combat engineer with Alpha Company, 37th Engineer Battalion, and 2nd Brigade Combat team 82nd Airborne Division, was killed on Thursday during training at the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk, base officials said on Saturday.

Fort Bragg officials said the paratrooper’s death is currently under investigation, The Washington Times reported.

“The entire battalion was shocked to hear the tragic news of Pvt. Phillips’ death,” Lt. Col. Andrew Liffring, 37th Engineer Battalion commander said in a statement.

“Since his arrival a couple of months ago, josh made an immediate impact in Alpha company and in the battalion,” the statement said.

“He showed so much potential at such a young age and will be sorely missed. Our deepest condolences remain with his family and friends during this time of great loss,” it added.

Phillips joined the US Army in August 2014.

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