Soldier Honored: Bernard L. Deghand

Master Sergeant Deghand was assigned to the 35^th Division Artillery, Kansas National Guard. At the time of his 2006 deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Master Sergeant Deghand was killed in action on September 15, 2006 in Spira, Afghanistan.

Master Sergeant Deghand, of Mayetta, Kansas, graduated from Shawnee Heights High School in 1982. He attended Basic Training in Fort Sill, OK immediately after graduation. In 1986, he transferred to the Kansas Army National Guard. In addition to his lengthy and varied military career, Bernard coached his children’s sports teams and enjoyed playing with them outside on trips and adventures. Master Sergeant Deghand’s awards include the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart Medal. He leaves behind his wife and three children.