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Soldier who died in bear attack was ‘positive and dedicated leader’ from Florida

Charlotte Observer - 5/13/2022

Seth Michael Plant always went above and beyond, the U.S. Army said.

The 30-year-old from St. Augustine, Florida, “always had a smile on his face,” and was known as an inspiration to the people around him, officials said. On Tuesday, May 10, he was killed in a bear attack at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska, according to the Army.

He was rushed to the hospital after the mauling and declared dead, officials said. Another soldier was also injured in the attack but was released from the hospital.

Soldier dies after bear attacks during training at Alaska military base, officials say

The U.S. Army did not release additional details on the attack.

Plant, an Afghanistan War veteran, joined the active-duty Army in January 2015 after he served at Fort Benning in Georgia and Fort Bragg in North Carolina.

The infantryman from the 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, arrived at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage in July, according to the Army.

“Staff Sgt. Plant was an integral part of our organization. He was a positive and dedicated leader who brought joy and energy to the paratroopers who served with him,” Lt. Col. David J. Nelson said in a Thursday, May 12, news release.

Plant had received several awards and decorations while serving, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal.

He also received an Afghanistan Campaign Medal and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

“He served as an inspiration to all who had the privilege to know him,” Nelson said. “His loss is deeply felt within our organization and we offer our sincere condolences to friends and family.”

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