A 23-year-old soldier assigned to the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas, died after drowning on Sunday, according to a Fort Riley news release.
Spc. Xavier Harden was at Milford Lake near Milford, Kansas, when he entered the water from a boat and did not resurface, the release said.
The food service specialist was assigned to Forward Support Company D, 5th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division.
Harden, originally from Tolleson, Arizona, joined the Army in January 2014 and was stationed at Fort Riley in June 2016.
The soldier was at the lake with his family when the wind blew his wife and 3-year-old son, who were on a raft, farther away from shore, according to the Junction City Post. The news site reported that Harden jumped into the water to pull them back, even though he was unable to swim.
"This is a tragic loss for the entire 'Longknife' family," Lt. Col. Dave Maxwell, commander of 5th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, said in the release. "We are supporting and will continue to support Xavier's family through this difficult time."
The incident remains under investigation, according to the release.
Harden's awards include the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.
Charlsy Panzino covers the Guard and Reserve, training, technology, operations and features for Army Times and Air Force Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.
Charlsy is a Reporter and Engagement Manager for Military Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.
