Technical Sergeant Anthony L. Capra, 31, of Hanford, California was assigned to Detachment 63, 688th Armament Systems Squadron, out of Indian Head City, MD. He died April 9, 2008, of wounds sustained while dismantling a roadside bomb near Golden Hills, Iraq. TSgt Capra, who was an EOD team leader was conducting post-blast analysis of a roadside bomb crater. During his investigation, he discovered a second improvised explosive device only a few meters away; while attempting to render the second device safe, it detonated.

TSgt Capra entered the Air Force in June 1997 and was on his fourth deployment since 2001. Serving in the Air Force was a tradition for the Capra family. His father, Tony, was an airman, and three of Capra’s siblings followed their brother into the Air Force.

His life encapsulated service to his country, love for his family, and dedication to Christ. “He was a character,” said Capra’s former boss, Capt. Shane Frith. “You couldn’t be around this guy without laughing. He was a great guy. He would light up a room.”

He is survived by his wife, Angie, and children, Mark, Victoria, Jared, Shawn and Adrianna.