FORT CARSON, COLO. -- The Department of Defense announced Friday the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Spc. Eric M. Finniginam, 26, of Colonia, Federated States of Micronesia, died May 1 at Forward Operating Base Blessing, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using indirect fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson.

Finniginam was featured on the FOX21 "Veteran's Day Heroes" website page this past November. 

He joined the U.S. Army in July 2008 and his current unit in November 2008. He was deployed to Afghanistan in June 2009. He worked as an infantryman.

His awards included: Army Commendation Medal with Valor, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Driver Mechanic Badge.